What You'll Learn
- Developing proprioception through tendu and rond de jambe in the center while wearing pointe shoes.
- Mastering the weight shift in tombé pas de bourrée to transition smoothly into center work.
- Executing precise grand battement and petit battement combinations with a focus on foot height and floor clearance.
- Improving core stability and alignment without the physical support of the barre.
About This Video
Transitioning from the stability of the barre to the open floor is a pivotal moment in any dancer’s journey, and doing so in pointe shoes adds a layer of complexity that requires immense focus and precision. In this 36-minute session with Broche Ballet, we explore 'Center Barre'—a series of traditional barre exercises performed in the center of the room. While the entire class is executed on flat, wearing your pointe shoes allows you to build the specific proprioception and strength needed to manage the box and shank of the shoe without the added challenge of rising to full pointe. This approach is perfect for dancers looking to feel grounded and secure before taking their work en pointe.
The lesson begins with a focus on tendu and rond de jambe to establish your center of gravity. We emphasize the importance of the closing rond de jambe, ensuring the foot returns exactly to the floor with control. As we progress into fondu and grand battement, you will learn to navigate the weight of the shoe during quick, sharp movements. The instructor provides detailed cues on how to execute 'cute little beats,' inspired by the Sugar Plum Fairy, which helps in developing musicality and character within technical exercises. This blend of technique and artistry is what defines the Broche Ballet approach.
A significant portion of the class is dedicated to grand battement and petit battement. You will practice maintaining a high coupé or retiré position, adjusted for the height of the pointe shoe to ensure clean execution without catching the floor. We also dive into the mechanics of the tombé pas de bourrée, a foundational traveling step that serves as a bridge to more advanced center work. Throughout the class, the emphasis remains on core engagement, proper alignment, and the 'beat' of the movement—down, side, back, and hold. By the end of this practice, you will feel more grounded and confident in your ability to maintain your technique away from the barre, setting a strong foundation for future pointe work.
