Classical variation guide
Odile Variation 2
Also known as Odile Black Swan Variation · Black Swan Pas de Deux Variation 2 · Swan Lake Odile Act III · Odile Variation 2
Swan Lake · Act III · Black Swan Pas de Deux
Female
Advanced
Marius Petipa / Lev Ivanov (traditional staging; versions vary)
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
About this variation
At Prince Siegfried’s royal ball, Odile appears with Rothbart and deceives the prince by resembling Odette. In the Black Swan pas de deux, her brilliant, commanding dancing draws Siegfried into a promise of love that betrays Odette. This second variation calls for regal poise, polished virtuosity, and a bold theatrical presence.
Performance quality
Regal, assured, dazzling, precise, and dramatically deceptive
Training focus
Build reliable pointe placement, turns, transitions, and crisp musical articulation. Keep the shoulders calm and the gaze commanding, with a clear dramatic intention throughout the solo.
Key elements
Pirouettes · Balances · Quick footwork · Character acting