What You'll Learn
- How to originate head switches and upper body movement from the spine rather than the shoulders.
- The 'ball gown' visualization for creating fluid, 'swoopy' transitions in pas de basque.
- Leveraging the arm in allongé to create power and efficiency when rising from a tombé.
- Coordinating head placement in jeté to clearly define positions like coup-de-pied and arabesque.
- Strategic chin and head angles to prepare the body for transitions between piqué sous-sus and écarté.
About This Video
In this 17-minute advanced center class at Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the nuances of head movements and épaulement. While footwork provides the technical foundation, it is the fluidity and intentionality of the upper body that brings a performance to life. This session focuses on the intricate coordination between your gaze and your feet, ensuring that every transition looks effortless and professional.
We begin by examining the technical mechanics of the upper back. A common pitfall for many dancers is attempting to find épaulement by simply depressing the shoulder blades. Instead, this class teaches you how to originate cambré and head switches from the spine itself.
This approach not only creates a stronger, more lengthened line but also allows for greater freedom of movement through the neck and shoulders without sacrificing stability. The class covers a series of center combinations including tendu, tombé pas de bourrée, and pas de basque through jeté. To help you achieve a 'swoopy' and fluid quality, we utilize the imagery of a grand ball gown.
Imagine the sweeping motion of the fabric as you transition between poses; this visualization helps harmonize the head's path with the movement of the legs. Technical precision remains a priority as we explore piqué sous-sus and chassé into écarté front. You will learn how specific head angles and chin placements act as a setup for the body, preparing you for the weight shifts and directional changes that follow.
Additionally, we discuss the role of the arms, specifically how an allongé position can provide the necessary leverage to stand up efficiently from a tombé. Whether you are working on croisé, effacé, or the subtle shifts of the head during a jeté, this class provides the tools to add a layer of stylization and professional polish to your dancing. Join us at Broche Ballet to refine your artistry and master the coordination that defines advanced ballet technique.
