Which practice demonstrates the purpose of linking retiré, développé, and pirouette preparation?

• A. Reach retiré, smooth into développé, then align for pirouette with spotting and tight passé.
• B. Begin with a grand jeté.
• C. Skip to pirouette without preparation.
• D. Only practice retiré without linking to développé.

Answer: (A)

Linking retiré, développé, and pirouette preparation is about creating a seamless, controlled transition that sets up balance, turnout, and proper alignment for the turn. Starting in retiré establishes a strong stable base and clean line. Moving smoothly into développé lengthens the working leg and reinforces correct hip alignment, helping you maintain turnout and momentum without losing control. Then getting ready for the turn with precise align­ment, a focused spotting, and a tight passé positions you for a stable axis and a clean entry into the spin. This flow demonstrates how each movement prepares the next, which is essential for executing a polished pirouette.

The other approaches don’t show that connected preparation. Beginning with a grand jeté doesn’t establish the through-line of balance and alignment needed for a turn. Skipping the preparatory steps misses the crucial transfer of weight and the development of a stable axis. Practicing retiré in isolation fails to illustrate how to connect to développé and then to the pirouette, which is exactly what the test is assessing.