Beginner Pointe Cohort Week 10: Speed, Coordination, and Introduction to Échappé and Bourrée

Welcome to Week 10 of the Broche Ballet Beginner Pointe Cohort. As we move into the second half of this 16-week program, the curriculum shifts focus toward increasing the speed and coordination necessary for more complex pointe work. This session introduces two fundamental movements that are staples of any dancer's repertoire: the échappé and the bourrée. These steps require a high level of control and precision, which we build throughout the 30-minute practice session.

In this class, you will dive deep into the mechanics of the échappé, focusing on the "escaping" motion from fifth position to second position en pointe. We emphasize the importance of a controlled plié and a sharp, simultaneous movement of both feet to ensure stability on the platform. Similarly, we begin exploring bourrées, teaching you how to maintain a tight fifth position while traveling with tiny, fluid steps. We also refine the pas de bourrée, ensuring your weight transfer is seamless and your turnout is maintained throughout the transition.

Beyond these new steps, we continue to reinforce foundational techniques. The class includes adagio combinations that challenge your balance and control, specifically focusing on the passé and coupé positions. By slowing down these movements, you can ensure your turnout is originating from the hips and that your weight is correctly placed over your toes. We also practice the piqué, ensuring a strong, straight leg as you step directly onto the shoe.

One of the key focuses this week is inner thigh engagement and core stability. Whether you are performing a simple tombé or a complex sequence of dégagés, keeping the inner thighs active and the core engaged is crucial for maintaining your vertical alignment en pointe. Join us at Broche Ballet as we build the stamina and technical precision needed to transition from basic barre exercises to fluid center work.