What You'll Learn
- The technique of 'pulling words out' for clear and expressive pantomime storytelling.
- How to coordinate natural head movement with gestures for a realistic performance.
- Using concrete gestures, such as the 'hero's welcome,' to convey complex emotions.
- Methods for reviewing and practicing scenes to build muscle memory and fluidity.
- The art of connecting movement to music and lyrics to tell a cohesive story.
About This Video
Unlock a new layer of your dance practice with Artistry in the Center, a specialized ballet class from Broche Ballet focusing on the beautiful and often overlooked art of pantomime. In this 21-minute session, we step away from purely technical exercises to explore the narrative power of movement through the lens of a Disney classic: Go the Distance from Hercules. Pantomime is a cornerstone of classical ballet, allowing dancers to communicate complex emotions and plot points without speaking a single word.
This class breaks down the specific gestures required to tell a hero’s story, including the hero’s welcome and the journey complete pose. You will learn the importance of pulling words out of your mouth—a technique that ensures your facial expressions and hand gestures are perfectly synchronized to convey clear meaning. The instructor guides you through a series of exercises designed to make your storytelling feel natural and organic.
We focus on how the head follows the movement of the eyes and hands, avoiding stiff or robotic poses. By practicing lines like I can go the distance and I'll be there someday through movement, you will discover how to fill every plié or tendu with intention and heart. Throughout the rehearsal, you will review the entire sequence multiple times, allowing the choreography to move from your head into your muscle memory.
This repetition is key to achieving the fluid, expressive quality seen in professional stage performances. Whether you are preparing for a specific role or simply want to feel more like a dancer rather than just an athlete, this class provides the tools to elevate your artistry. At Broche Ballet, we believe that dance is as much about the story as it is about the steps.
By the end of this session, you will have a deeper understanding of how to use concrete gestures and emotional expression to engage an audience. Join us as we explore the intersection of music, movement, and the magic of storytelling.
