Finding the right angle

[lampwick]

I did a little experimenting with the video camera yesterday and discovered some problems with my line in attitude croise derriere (I think I got that right ) . When I releve on one leg, my knee looks quite bent (in fact it's not) when viewed from the side. Straight on, the leg looks fine. It almost appears like I have a slight knock-kneed appearance when I am bearing weight on one leg. I've sort of noticed this watching myself on tape doing just about everything. It makes me look weaker and less turned out than I think I actually am (though of course those things always need some work as well). The bones in my legs look straight when I look at them. Maybe it's not knock knees? My lower legs seem more turned out than the upper part. I can put my knees parallel front and still have turnout in the feet. My knees are also fairly hyperextended and just generally seem pretty mobile.

 

Besides the ongoing work of holding my turnout (I have a decent amount to work with), I think it's time to start experimenting with the angles I place myself in relative to the audience/ or mirror. I've seen some FABULOUS ballet dancers who are principles in major companies with almost zero turnout. One girl in particular (who I've stood right behind at the barre on a few occasions) has none whatsoever, yet looks incredible on stage. You'd never guess that her demi plie looks the way it does.

 

How do they figure this all out? If I have a more open position in croise, won't that only look perfect to the few people sitting directly in front of me in the audience? Is it just going to be a matter of taking a very long time and watching numerous tapes of myself to rectify these issues, or are there some tips would would help right now? I haven't talked to my teacher specifically about this, though she has noted the bent leg appearance and pokes at my turnout muscles a lot. I feel most of my support right under the butt, and those muscles are always sore, so I must be using them

 

I've probably answered my own questions, but it would be good to hear from people who have done some experimenting with the angles you place yourself in to maximize assets and minimize flaws. It's something I'd love to start considering, but clueless really how to start.

[Mel Johnson]

I think that you actually have answered your own question: This sounds like a problem of the rotation of the supporting leg. Improve that, and the jarreté appearance of the leg will become far less noticeable.

[Victoria Leigh]

However, the angle can also make a difference. Experimenting with that is a good idea. My guess is that you probably need to be very slightly less turned towards your corner on the croisé position. Over turning that position even slightly can make things look quite off.