What You'll Learn
- The mechanical differences between a sous-sus turn and turns that alternate feet.
- How to use a deep, timed fondu to power your turns and maintain balance.
- A graceful port de bras sequence designed to improve upper body and rib cage coordination.
- Correct weight placement for plié and tendu movements when standing in the center.
- Essential transitions including chassé and temps lié to move fluidly across the floor.
About This Video
Transitioning from the barre to the center is one of the most exciting and challenging milestones in a dancer's journey. In this 17-minute guided practice with Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the essential elements of beginner center work, focusing on balance, fluidity, and precision. This class is designed to help you find your center of gravity without the support of the horizontal rail, building the core strength and stability needed for more advanced choreography.
We begin with a series of foundational movements, including plié and tendu exercises that challenge your weight placement in open space. A significant portion of this lesson is dedicated to mastering the sous-sus turn. Unlike some turns that require a quick shift from one foot to the other, the sous-sus turn emphasizes keeping both feet on the floor for the majority of the rotation.
You will learn how the depth and timing of your fondu—a melting bend on one leg—serves as the crucial engine for this turn, providing the necessary power and stability to rotate efficiently. In addition to turning technique, we explore the grace and coordination of port de bras. Our instructor guides you through a specific sequence involving rib rolls and upper body movements that integrate the arms with the torso.
You will learn how to maintain level shoulders and a long neck while moving through positions, ensuring your port de bras looks effortless and intentional. We also touch upon transitions like chassé and temps lié, teaching you how to move through space with control. By the end of this session, you will have a better understanding of how to use your entire body—not just your legs—to execute center movements.
This practice is perfect for those who want to feel more confident away from the barre and improve their overall coordination.
