Learning the classic dance elements

Attitude

A particular pose in dancing derived by Carlo Blasis from the statue of Mercury by Giovanni da Bologna. A position in which the dancer stands on one leg (known as the supporting leg) while the other leg (working leg) is lifted and well turned out with the knee bent at approximately 90-degree angle. The lifted or working leg can be behind (derrière), in front (devant), or on the side (à la seconde) of the body. If the leg in attitude derrière is resting on the floor, then the pose is known as B-plus. It is important to note that when executing an attitude position devant or derrière, the knee should be in line with the ankle, as if the whole leg would be resting on a surface. The attitude position can be performed with the supporting leg and foot either en pointe, demi pointe or on a flat foot.