Question

In ballet, the term "en arrière" [ah na-RYEHR] is used to describe a step executed in which direction?

A) Forward, towards the audience.
B) Backward, moving away from the audience.
C) Sideways, parallel to the audience.
D) Diagonally across the stage.

Answer 1

In ballet, 'en arrière' describes a step where the dancer moves backward, away from the audience. The correct option is b.

Step-by-step explanation:

In ballet, the term "en arrière" [ah na-RYEHR] is used to describe a step executed in the direction of B) Backward, moving away from the audience.

This term is derived from the French word meaning 'backward' and is consistent with other stage directions, where 'upstage' means away from the audience, and 'downstage' means towards the audience.

So, when a dancer performs a step en arrière, they move in a direction that would take them closer to the back of the stage, away from the audience's view. The correct option is b.