What You'll Learn
- How to prepare for a professional pointe shoe fitting
- Techniques for sewing ribbons and elastics properly
- Correct ankle alignment for dancing on the platform
- Toe articulation and usage inside the pointe shoe
- Foundational steps including relevé, plié, and échappé
- Methods for safely breaking in and caring for shoes
- How to set up a safe space for pointe work at home
- Developing the 'pull up' through the legs for stability
About This Program
Embark on Your Pointe Journey with Confidence
Transitioning to pointe work is one of the most magical milestones for any adult ballet dancer. However, it requires a careful, structured approach to ensure safety and strength. The Pointe - Level A program at Broche Ballet is designed specifically for the adult learner, guiding you from the very first moment you consider your first pair of shoes through to executing foundational movements at the barre.
Comprehensive Preparation and Shoe Care
Before you even step into a studio, there is much to learn. This program features dedicated modules on the logistical side of pointe work. You will learn what to expect during a professional fitting, how to choose between virtual or in-person options, and how to prepare your feet. Once you have your shoes, we provide step-by-step tutorials on sewing ribbons and elastics—a true rite of passage for every dancer. We also cover the 'sane' way to break in your shoes, ensuring they support your feet without compromising the integrity of the shank.
A Structured 16-Week Curriculum
The heart of the program is a 16-week beginner pointe curriculum. We focus heavily on ankle alignment and proper placement on the 'box' or platform of the shoe. You will learn how to use your toes within the shoe, understanding when to elongate and how to use them to lower gracefully off of pointe. Exercises are performed with two hands on the barre to prioritize stability and correct form.
Key technical focuses include:
- Articulation: Rolling through 3/4 pointe in prances and rises.
- Strength: Building the 'pull-up' in the knees and hips for steady work.
- Foundational Steps: Mastering the relevé, échappé, and pas de bourrée en pointe.
By the end of this journey, you will have the strength and confidence to transition into Level B or join a local beginner pointe class with a solid technical foundation.
