What You'll Learn
- Techniques to transition from two-handed to one-hand barre support for improved stability.
- Proper weight placement over the box during piqué and tendu movements.
- Coordination of port de bras and épaulement while balancing in retiré and sous-sus.
- Fluidity in pas de bourrée and adagio sequences en pointe.
- Correct foot articulation and arching of the shank during petit développé.
About This Video
Transitioning from basic beginner exercises to more advanced levels of pointe work requires a significant shift in stability and self-reliance. At Broche Ballet, we understand that moving from a two-handed grip on the barre to using just one hand is one of the most challenging transitions for a developing dancer. This 30-minute "Beyond Beginner" class is specifically designed to bridge that gap, focusing on the core strength and ankle stability necessary to eventually move away from the barre entirely.
The session begins with a methodical warm-up at the barre. We utilize pliés, tendus, and foot rolls to gently wake up the small muscles of the feet and ensure the ankles are ready for the weight-bearing demands of pointe work. As we progress into the main portion of the class, the focus shifts to one-hand barre exercises.
This change forces the dancer to find their own center of gravity and engage the deep core muscles to maintain upright alignment. One of the primary technical focuses of this lesson is weight placement over the "box" of the pointe shoe. We practice leaning exercises and piqué transitions to ensure that the weight is stacked directly over the platform, preventing the common mistake of "sitting" in the shoe.
Dancers will work through sous-sus, petit développé, and piqué passé, emphasizing a strong supporting hip and a beautifully arched shank. The class also explores more dynamic movements, such as pas de bourrée variations and an adagio sequence. These exercises incorporate positions in effacé and croisé, as well as tombé transitions and piqué turns.
Throughout these combinations, we emphasize the coordination of port de bras and épaulement, ensuring that the upper body remains fluid and expressive even as the legs and feet work with intense precision. Whether you are looking to strengthen your retiré balance or refine your piqué mechanics, this class provides the professional guidance needed to advance your technique. By the end of this session, you will have a better understanding of how to maintain your verticality and grace en pointe with minimal barre assistance.
