Glissade

Movement Demonstration

Definition

Glissade: glide; a classical ballet term meaning “glide.” It is a traveling, usually small, jump that is typically used to link other steps together and can be considered an in-between step.

A traveling step is executed by gliding the working foot from the fifth position in the required direction, the other foot closing toward it. Glissade is a terre à terre step and is used to link other steps. After a demi-plié in the fifth position, the working foot glides along the floor to a strong point a few inches from the floor. The other foot then pushes away from the floor so both knees are straight and both feet are strongly pointed for a moment; then the weight is shifted to the working foot with a fondu. The other foot, which is pointed a few inches from the floor, slides into the fifth position in demi-plié. 

When a glissade is used as an auxiliary step for small or big jumps, it is done with a quick movement on the upbeat. Glissades are done with or without the changing of feet, and all begins and ends with a demi-plié. There are six glissades: devant, derrière, dessous, dessus, en avant, and en arrière. The difference between them depends on the starting and finishing positions as well as the direction. Glissade may also be done sur les pointes.

A dancer performs a glissade by plieing in fifth position, sliding (or gliding) one foot out into a degage side.  The working leg reaches about 20 degrees off the floor, the dancer pushes off the supporting foot and extends it to the side. For a moment, the dancer is suspended in the air with both legs and feet fully stretched and pointed as if in a sauté in second position.  The working leg then lands on the floor as the supporting leg (in the air already) quickly closes into fifth position.

Glissade is usually done with the back foot starting outwards first and not changing position as you land into fifth. Meaning, if the right leg started in the back and slid out to start, it will also end in the back.  However, some schools teach that glissades change feet’ positions as they’ve landed.  Both are considered correct.

Movement Techniques

1. Movement Explanations:
   1. Start in position.
   2. Plié with both feet grounded.
   3. Bring the foot in the front to the side.
   4. Follow the natural turnout line.
   5. Land on the back foot.
   6. Straighten back in position.
2. Movement Techniques:
   1. Jump with one foot out to the side (up and to the side for lift).
   2. Use the bar and your muscles to lift higher.