101 Reasons to Study Ballet - #40 Manege

Reason # 40 - Manege

The word manege in ballet means roundabout or circular. A dancer travels around the stage or dance studio in a circle while performing a series of steps or turns. A manège of any kind can be intimidating and difficult to master. It appears in almost every classical and romantic period ballet. It is often the big finish to a classical ballet solo. How do ballet dancers do that circle of turn or leaps? Spotting!! Spotting is focusing on a "spot" in the dance studio or stage so you do not get dizzy.  You spot a manège in a square.  No matter how diffcult or what kind of turns or movements it is made of. To the the audience eyes  - they see a circle being made around the stage, your spotting should move in four sides according to where you’re going: first stage right, then upstage, stage left, and finally, downstage. Perform a manege with energy,grace, strength, and confidence. A manege is challenging and fun. Learn to dance a manege. Start taking a ballet class today.
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