What You'll Learn
- How to use breath to fluidly transition between ballet positions in center work
- Techniques for creating an expressive and stable port de bras using the spine and chest
- The importance of feeling internal sensations like floor friction and air resistance
- How to shift focus from visual appearance to internal body awareness for better artistry
- Specific alignment tips for the elbows and armpits to improve arm carriage
About This Video
Welcome to a transformative session at Broche Ballet designed to bridge the gap between technical execution and true artistic expression. In this center-focused class, we move away from the barre to explore the fluid and expressive world of port de bras. This lesson is less about how you look to an audience and more about how the movement feels within your own body. We often get caught up in the visual shape of ballet, but the real magic happens in the sensations of the transitions.
Throughout the class, we dive deep into technique, starting with the alignment of the spine. You will learn to visualize your spine as a beautiful, lengthening arc that supports your every move. We pay special attention to the often-overlooked areas: the placement of the elbows, the lift in the armpits, and the opening of the chest. By focusing on these internal markers, you create a more authentic and stable presence in the center. This internal focus helps prevent the 'robotic' feel that can sometimes plague technical practice.
A key element of this session is the integration of breath. We use the breath to initiate movement, allowing the air to guide the transitions between positions. Imagine creating a gentle breeze with your hands as you move through your port de bras, feeling the resistance of the air against the back of your hand. This tactile approach brings a new layer of artistry to your dancing.
We also ground our artistry in solid footwork. Feel the friction on the floor as you execute tendus and dégagés. By noticing exactly which part of your foot is in contact with the ground, you can guide your transitions with more precision and grace. This internal awareness is what ultimately makes you feel like a dancer, allowing you to express yourself fully without the support of the barre. Join us to refine your center practice and discover the dancer within.
