How to Spot in Ballet [Video]

One of the most fascinating “feats” of ballet dancers is their ability to turn, in other words, to execute pirouttes.

To be able to turn with such speed and without getting dizzy requires mastering the art of spotting. Here are two amazing videos: the first shows step-by-step how to spot in ballet and the second is the result of years of training to spot and ballet technique; the result: 32 fouettesfrom the Black Swan variation from Swan Lake!

If you’re a ballet student, teach ballet or are simply mystified by ballet dancers’ spotting and turning, you’re going to enjoy the next video.

Spotting For Pirouettes Correctly

Spotting is the technique used by ballet dancers to avoid dizziness while doing multiple turns. In ballet classes, and in theaters, dancers will find a “spot” that they can see, and upon which they will focus throughout, for example, the 32 fouettes performed in Swan Lake by the ballerina, or a series of turns a la seconde by the male dancer.

Full article found at Ballet and Pointe Shoes.

Akane Takada demonstrates the technique of spotting, a crucial skill for being able to execute swift turns on stage.

Spotting [is used] in turns to maintain balance and direction. The dancer focuses the eyes on a set spot and keeps eye contact with it while turning the body. At the last moment, the dancer whips the head around and reconnects eye contact with the spot. This prevents the dancer becoming dizzy and gives them the appearance of turning very rapidly.

Uploaded by the Royal Opera House to YouTube. Thanks!

Now watch spotting in full action in this excerpt from Swan Lake.

Gullian Murphy performs 32 fouettes. Fouettes are a form of pirouettes which are propelled by one leg. In this video Ms. Murphy uses her right leg to do her fouettes.

Video courtesy of YouTube.

I hope you found both these videos helpful in learning how to spot in ballet. If you did, would you give us a “Like” below? Share these two cool videos with your friends! Thanks, until next time.