When to use full pointe vs demi pointe

[ViolaDancer]

A girl in my class was asking whether a balance in pointe shoes should be executed on full pointe or on demi pointe. Our teacher responded with demi pointe, but I was wondering whether this is a variable across styles and choreography. Along the same lines I have seen a curtsy/reverence executed with a step back on to demi pointe as well as a slide with the top of the polite shoes remaining on the floor. Again, is this styling/preference?

[Victoria Leigh]

There are many different ways to execute balancés and also reverence, ViolaDancer. Just do whatever is asked by any teacher or director.

[ViolaDancer]

That's what I had assumed, but you know what they say about assuming. And I'm always looking to learn more.

 

Thanks Ms. Leigh.