FIRST ARABESQUE

Arabesque is one of the most common ballet positions, and first arabesque specifically refers to an arabesque position where the arm of the standing leg side points forward in the direction of the front leg, and the standing leg arm is out to the side. Arabesques are used frequently in class and choreography. First arabesque can be done as a balance at barre, as a promenade in adagio combinations, and as a pirouette, among countless other ways. 

Arabesque can be done at any height, though first arabesque most commonly aims for a back leg at 90 degrees or higher. However, it’s important that the back and upper body stay lifted and can support the arabesque position no matter the height of the back leg. A helpful hint is to think of the opposition of the back leg and the front of the body which create an arc and lift equally. Imagining the chest and back lifting along with the back toe instead of trying to lift the back leg independently can help establish a connection of the back leg while simultaneously creating a more stable overall position. This arc can also be created by reaching through the front hand and back toe equally. Imagine these two points reaching as far away as possible. The opposition of the toe and hand along with a stretched and lifted supporting leg will help create a more stable and placed arabesque. This can be especially helpful in balances and turns with arabesques en pointe or demi pointe!

An arabesque is not just about the back leg, so make sure not to forget about the arms and upper body! In a first arabesque, the front arm height varies with specific styles of training. No matter what, it is always important to have energy through the front hand and fingers. Your eyes and chin can also always enhance the arabesque line, and lifting your eyes and chin to focus out and above the front hand will always help create a more cohesive shape and energy in this position. Make sure not to forget the side arm in a first arabesque, as it is just as important to the overall picture of the position. This arm shouldn’t be too far back or drop too low and accidentally pull your upper body to the side. Make sure the elbow stays lifted and the side arm is not an afterthought to the position. Every element of an arabesque is essential to the overall shape.

The standing leg is very important for creating a stable arabesque position, so make sure to engage the rotation and lifted feeling on the standing leg through the entire arabesque. Establishing a rotated and stable foundation is extremely important for every arabesque and becomes even more useful during balances, turns, and promenades.   

There are a lot of elements to a correctly placed first arabesque, and they can sometimes seem challenging, but luckily first arabesques are so common in class and choreography that each one is a great opportunity to work on technique!

Have a wonderful Technique Thursday!