What You'll Learn
- The technical breakdown and timing of the pas de bourrée
- How to maintain balance in arabesque without the support of a barre
- Using the sous-sus as a functional transitional movement
- Coordinating arm placement with footwork to enhance alignment
- Developing spatial awareness through different body angles
About This Video
Moving from the barre to the center of the room is one of the most exciting yet challenging transitions for any new dancer. In this first installment of our Absolute Beginner Ballet center series, Broche Ballet guides you through the fundamental movements that define the grace and structure of classical dance. This 26-minute class is designed to demystify center work, giving you the confidence to move across the floor without the physical support of a rail.
Our primary focus for this session is the pas de bourrée, a classic connective movement in ballet. We break this step down into its distinct parts, focusing on footwork, timing, and weight transfer. You will learn how to maintain a crisp relevé and transition smoothly from one foot to the other.
Alongside the pas de bourrée, we explore the iconic arabesque. Balancing on one leg requires core strength and proper alignment; our instructor provides detailed feedback on how to position your body and extend your back leg to achieve a beautiful line while maintaining stability. Throughout the class, we also incorporate the sous-sus as a transitional movement.
This "under-over" step helps dancers gather their energy and find their center before launching into more complex combinations. We emphasize the importance of arm placement, ensuring that your upper body complements your footwork. By practicing these steps in combination, you will learn how to show your body to the audience from various angles, enhancing your artistry and spatial awareness.
Repetition is key in ballet. This video allows you to practice the center combination multiple times with professional guidance, ensuring you build the muscle memory necessary for progress. Whether you are practicing in a home studio or a living room, this class provides the technical foundation you need to transition from a beginner to a confident mover.