What You'll Learn
- Techniques for articulating through the metatarsals while wearing pointe shoes.
- How to maintain proper turnout and alignment during balance A1 sequences.
- Strategies for controlled développé and fondu movements en pointe.
- Refining balance and weight placement at the barre to prepare for center work.
About This Video
Welcome to a comprehensive Broche Ballet session focused on one of the most critical aspects of classical dance: the barre. In this 33-minute class, "Barre in Pointe Shoes," we dive deep into the mechanics of articulation and strength required to dance en pointe with grace and precision. Transitioning your barre work from flat shoes to pointe shoes is a significant milestone that requires a heightened focus on foot control and alignment.
The class begins with fundamental movements like tendu and cambré. These exercises are designed to warm up the ankles and toes, ensuring that every movement through the floor is deliberate. As we progress, the instructor introduces more complex sequences involving développé and enveloppé.
The goal here is to maintain a stable core and perfect turnout while navigating the added height and stiffness of the pointe shoe. A unique highlight of this session is the exploration of the "Balance A1" movement. This involves executing a relevé into a piqué position, which can be particularly challenging when first attempting it en pointe.
You will learn how to use a slight tap of the back toe to find your center and how to translate the stability found in flat shoes into the vertical alignment necessary for pointe work. Throughout the practice, we emphasize the fondu—the "melting" action that is essential for developing the power needed for jumps and smooth transitions. By focusing on the articulation of the foot during the fondu and subsequent relevé, you will build the muscular endurance required for professional-level performance.
The session also covers the passé and arabesque positions, teaching you how to maintain your line without sacrificing the integrity of your shoe's box. Finally, the class concludes with grand battement, preparing you for the center series. Whether you are looking to refine your current technique or seeking to build more confidence in your shoes, this Broche Ballet class provides the expert guidance needed to excel.
