Ballet is a formalized type of dance; ballet dance is usually performed on stage as part of a ballet dance work which includes mime, acting, and is set to music. Dancers can perform either
en pointe or
demi-pointe; in ballet class, the dancers work either at the
barre or in centre floor.
A significant part of ballet terminology is in the French language, because ballet became formalized in France.
To the side or in the second position. À la seconde usually means a step that moves sideways or a movement done to the side such as grand battement à la seconde. A technically challenging type of turn is pirouette à la seconde, where the dancer spins with the working leg in second position à la hauteur. This turn is usually performed by male dancers, and because of the technical skills required to perform it correctly, it is seen as the male counterpart of fouettés en tournant.
ADAGE (French), ADAGIO (Italian)
