Ballet Dictionary: Piqué
Photo by Mark Sumaylo • Text by Abigail Oliveiro
Step: Piqué
How: To Piqué is to describe a movement where a transfer of weight occurs. The term “Piqué” means to prick which describes the precision of this movement. The dancer would transfer their weight from one to another by stepping out directly onto pointe (or demi-pointe). This step would often precede another movement where the new working leg would be raised and suspended. The dancer here depicts the end of a Piqué.
Tip: Keeping the turnout is important in a Piqué as it keeps the classical line clean. (Heel forward!) There is a tendency to “under step” a Piqué. (Under step meaning that the dancer is stepping less than the distance they should be). To know how far to Piqué, place the working foot (soon to be new standing leg) on the floor in Tendu Devant en fondu. Where the foot touches the floor should be the minimum distance to where the dancer Piqué’s to. Stepping any less or “under stepping” would disrupt the momentum and body alignment and potentially start unwanted habits especially when a Piqué progresses into a tour (turn). Start by preparing from a deep fondu to help the push off into the Piqué and hold your core well to help suspend the end position longer.
Dancer: Jasmine Pia Dames, Ballet Manila principal dancer
Location: Ballet Manila Studio 1
