Soutenu

Movement Demonstration

Definition

Soutenu: (soutenue) Sustained in turning; in assemblé soutenu; Soutenu en tournant. 

Soutenu is a classical ballet term meaning “sustained” and describes a ballet dancer turning in a sus-sous or fifth position en pointe and ending with the opposite foot in front.  It is commonly done in both classes and on stage during performances by beginner and professional dancers.

A dancer will most commonly learn a soutenu in a beginner-level ballet class as a way to switch sides during a single bar combination.  This can later be done in center as a full turn, where it is seen in many turning combinations.  On stage, a soutenu can be seen in many corps de ballet sections, and both male and female variations, among many other sections of a ballet.

Movement Techniques

1. Movement Explanations:
   1. Start in a fondu tendu.
   2. Right leg stretched, left leg a fondu.
   3. Step out to the right.
   4. Cross your left leg over.
   5. Unwind to starting position, fondu tendu.
2. Movement Techniques:
   1. Arms rounded and controlled.