Photo by Mark Sumaylo • Text by Abigail Oliveiro 

Step: Second Arabesque

How: An Arabesque describes the position where the dancer has one leg stretched directly behind them. The Arabesque that is demonstrated is a Second Arabesque. Arabesques are defined by the position of the arms. A Second Arabesque is where the dancer has the arm on the same side as the working leg (in this case, the leg stretched behind her) extended in front and the other arm extended to the side.

Tip: As a Second Arabesque is a little more square (shoulders and hips are in line) in the body than a first arabesque, it requires a little bit more strength to keep the working leg (back leg) rotated. Try not to sacrifice the rotation with the height of the leg by lifting from underneath the inner thigh.

Ballet: Swan Lake, Act 3, Odile’s 2nd Coda

Dancer: Joan Emery Sia, Principal Dancer

Location: Ballet Manila Studio 1