Beginner Pointe Class 15: Mastering Speed and Bourrées

Welcome to Week 15 of the Broche Ballet Beginner Pointe 16-week program. As we approach the final stages of this comprehensive cohort, our focus shifts from foundational stability toward the elegance and agility required for fluid center work. This session is specifically dedicated to mastering the speed of your footwork and successfully integrating bourrées into your movement repertoire.

A common challenge for dancers beginning their journey en pointe is the tendency to use the knees or hips to initiate movement. In this class, we break down the mechanics of the bourrée, emphasizing that the movement should originate from a small, vibrant motion of the ankles rather than the thighs. You will learn how to pick up your feet with precision, ensuring your legs remain long and your alignment stays perfectly vertical.

By focusing on a curved shank and a slight flex of the ankle, you will create the crisp, shimmering quality that defines professional-level bourrées. Beyond bourrées, we explore the intricate transition from demi-pointe to tombé. Maintaining control during these weight shifts is crucial for both safety and aesthetic.

We will practice staying tall in your pointe shoes, ensuring that the front edge of the box remains engaged with the floor to prevent slipping or knuckling. This class also incorporates complex movements like passé, développé, and ouvert tombé, challenging you to maintain your turnout and core stability while increasing the tempo of the exercises. Whether you are practicing in a home studio or a professional space, this lesson provides the technical nuances needed to transition from static exercises to rhythmic combinations.

Remember, dancing en pointe requires significant pre-pointe strength and consistent training. As always at Broche Ballet, ensure you have approval from a qualified ballet teacher before beginning these exercises to ensure your safety and long-term progress.