What You'll Learn
- How to execute croisé and effacé positions with correct hip and shoulder alignment
- The technical distinctions between écarté devant and écarté derrière
- Proper port de bras and head placement for a clear first arabesque
- Coordination techniques for integrating arm and leg movements in the center
- Tips for maintaining balance and turnout without the support of the barre
About This Video
Navigating the geometry of the ballet stage is a pivotal step in any dancer's development. In this third installment of our center series at Broche Ballet, we transition away from the barre to focus on the foundational body directions that give classical dance its three-dimensional beauty. This lesson is designed to help you understand the relationship between your limbs and the space around you, ensuring your movements are both technically sound and aesthetically pleasing.
We dive deep into the nuances of positions like croisé and effacé. While these terms can often be confusing for beginners, our instructor breaks down the specific alignment of the hips, shoulders, and head to make these 'crossed' and 'open' positions intuitive. You will learn how to maintain your turnout and core stability while shifting through these varied orientations in the center of the room.
A major focus of this session is the écarté position—specifically écarté devant and écarté derrière. We explore the 'separated' or 'thrown wide' nature of this movement, emphasizing how the port de bras must frame the leg to create a clear, dramatic line. The lesson also covers the essential first arabesque, teaching you how to extend through the fingertips and toes so that every limb is visible and energized.
Throughout the class, we emphasize the importance of port de bras (arm movements) in coordination with leg movements like the tendu. By focusing on precision and control, you will develop the muscle memory needed for more complex center combinations. Whether you are practicing at home or in a studio, this guide provides the clarity needed to master the rules of body direction.
At Broche Ballet, we are dedicated to making professional-level terminology and technique accessible to adult learners, helping you dance with the grace and confidence of a seasoned performer.
