jéchappe

Jéchappe, more commonly written échappé, is a classical ballet term describing a movement in which the feet escape from a closed position to an open one, typically from fifth position to second or fourth. The execution begins in a closed position, usually with turnout and a light demi-plié; the feet move apart to the new position while the body remains upright, and weight is transferred onto the landing position in a controlled manner. There are two main variants: échappé simple, performed without a jump as a gliding escape, and échappé sauté, performed with a small jump to the new position. In both cases the feet arrive nearly simultaneously and the arms adopt a suitable line, often in first position or in opposition to the line of travel.

The term is a basic component of ballet technique and is commonly used as a transitional movement in barre exercises, adagio, and petite allegro sequences. It helps train turnout, balance, and coordination while enhancing the ability to move smoothly between closed and open positions.

Note: While échappé is the standard French spelling, some sources or learners may encounter the variant jéchappe. In formal usage, the noun and verb form is échappé / échapper.