What You'll Learn
- The full choreographic sequence of the Candide Fairy variation
- Musical phrasing and timing specific to Tchaikovsky's Sleeping Beauty
- Visualizing transitions between technical steps like relevés and arabesques
- Stylistic nuances and épaulement required for the Prologue fairies
About This Video
The Candide Fairy variation from the Prologue of The Sleeping Beauty is a masterpiece of classical ballet, demanding a unique blend of strength and delicacy. This video provides a full run-through of the choreography, offering dancers a chance to observe the performance quality and technical sequence of the solo. Whether you are a student preparing for a variation class or an enthusiast of the classics, this visual guide serves as a perfect reference for the stylistic requirements of a Tchaikovsky ballet.
In this performance, you can observe the precise execution of relevés and the intentional use of épaulement that defines the 'Crystal Fountain' fairy. The variation is famous for its shimmering quality, achieved through rapid footwork and fluid port de bras. By watching the full sequence, dancers can gain a better understanding of the musical phrasing—how to stretch the movement during slower melodic passages and find sharpness in the more rhythmic sections.
At Broche Ballet, we emphasize the importance of visual learning. Watching a run-through like this allows you to map out the choreography in your mind, noting the transitions between different sections of the stage. You can see how the dancer maintains their turnout and alignment while navigating the complex patterns of the solo.
This practice run-through is especially useful for those looking to improve their performance quality by observing how a dancer maintains focus and character from the opening pose to the final bow. While this video is a performance piece rather than a step-by-step tutorial, it is an essential tool for intermediate and advanced students who are ready to refine their artistry. By studying the lines of the arabesque and the height of the retiré, you can set goals for your own technical development.
Join us at Broche Ballet as we explore the rich history and demanding technique of classical variations like the Candide Fairy.
