relevé

Relevé is a ballet term meaning "raised." It describes a controlled rise from the floor onto the balls of the feet (demi-pointe) or onto pointe, while preserving turnout. The word comes from French relever, to raise.

Technique: Relevé is typically begun from an opened demi-plié in fifth position, though it can occur from other positions. The dancer presses evenly through the floor with the ankles and calves, lifting the heels first and then the rest of the foot to bring weight onto the balls of the feet. The knees straighten, the hips stay aligned under the ribs, and the spine lengthens. Turnout is maintained, and the arms may be in fifth, first, or another position according to the choreography. The movement is controlled, and the dancer lowers back to the floor with the same line of balance.

Variations: Common forms include relevé onto the demi-pointe (heels lifted, weight on the balls of the feet) and grand relevé, a larger elevation that may rise higher and can finish in demi-pointe or at pointe, depending on technique and repertoire. Grand relevé emphasizes height and extension of the legs.

Usage: Relevé develops foot and ankle strength, balance, and alignment. It is a preparatory action for turns (pirouettes) and jumps and appears in many exercises and repertory combinations. The term is used across ballet pedagogy to describe both a preparatory and a culminating elevation in movement.