In Cecchetti technique, what does the term chasse mean?

In Cecchetti technique, what does the term chasse mean?

• A. Chase (a slip from a closed to open position)
• B. A turning movement
• C. A sliding leap
• D. A side step

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is the gliding, chasing nature of the step. In Cecchetti, a chasse is a movement where one foot slides along the floor to meet and close with the other foot, so the working foot “chases” the standing foot. It starts from a closed position and travels smoothly into a new position with a transfer of weight, emphasizing a continuous, flowing line rather than a lift or a turn. It’s not a turning movement, not a leap, and not merely a side step—the essence is the sliding, chasing step that links one place to another.

The concept being tested is the gliding, chasing nature of the step. In Cecchetti, a chasse is a movement where one foot slides along the floor to meet and close with the other foot, so the working foot “chases” the standing foot. It starts from a closed position and travels smoothly into a new position with a transfer of weight, emphasizing a continuous, flowing line rather than a lift or a turn. It’s not a turning movement, not a leap, and not merely a side step—the essence is the sliding, chasing step that links one place to another.