Cecchetti Grade 6 Practice Exam

The main idea here is the direction of rotation relative to the supporting leg. In a pirouette en dehors, the turn spins outward, away from the leg that is bearing weight. The working leg moves toward the outside as you rotate, and your body follows that outward path. In a pirouette en dedans, the turn spins inward, toward the supporting leg, so the working leg moves toward the inside as you rotate. This directional difference guides your turnout, alignment, and spotting through the turn.

It’s not about whether the feet are pointed or flexed—both versions use pointed toes when executed well. It’s also not about performing on one leg vs. two, since both can be done on a single leg, and it isn’t about warming up. The distinct feature is the direction of rotation relative to the supporting leg.