Which is the correct description for Première arabesque croisé?

Which is the correct description for Première arabesque croisé?

• A. Second Arabesque In A Crossed Position
• B. First Arabesque In A Crossed Position
• C. First Arabesque In A Straight Position
• D. Third Arabesque Croisé

Answer: (B)

Première arabesque croisée describes the first arabesque with a crossed, diagonal alignment. Here, the working leg is extended behind the body in an arabesque, and the torso is turned toward the diagonally opposite corner of the room rather than facing the audience squarely. This combination creates a distinct, crisp line that Cecchetti values for balance, turnout, and the visual extension along the diagonal. The word croisée signals that the body is turned to the corner, as opposed to an open (effacé) position where the chest faces more forward. So the description that pairs the first arabesque with a crossed (diagonal) orientation is the correct one.

Première arabesque croisée describes the first arabesque with a crossed, diagonal alignment. Here, the working leg is extended behind the body in an arabesque, and the torso is turned toward the diagonally opposite corner of the room rather than facing the audience squarely. This combination creates a distinct, crisp line that Cecchetti values for balance, turnout, and the visual extension along the diagonal. The word croisée signals that the body is turned to the corner, as opposed to an open (effacé) position where the chest faces more forward. So the description that pairs the first arabesque with a crossed (diagonal) orientation is the correct one.