What You'll Learn
- Master the mechanics of the pas de basque with coordinated arm movements
- Improve stamina through high-impact jumps and rapid weight shifts
- Learn to maintain a deep plié for better balance in character work
- Develop rhythmic precision and floor-tapping techniques
- Build complex combinations that integrate character style and ballet logic
About This Video
Character dance is a vital part of the classical ballet repertoire, bringing rhythmic complexity and expressive flair to the stage. In this 25-minute cardio-focused class at Broche Ballet, instructor Julie guides you through an upbeat series of progressions designed to get your heart rate up while honing your technical precision. Unlike a standard barre class, this session emphasizes the grounded, folk-inspired movements typical of character work, such as the pas de basque and rhythmic balancé.
One of the key focuses of this tutorial is the mastery of the pas de basque. Julie breaks down the coordination of the legs and the specific skirt arms or demi-seconde positions that give character dance its distinct look. You will learn the importance of maintaining a deep plié to transition smoothly between steps and keep your balance during quick weight shifts.
The class also incorporates high-impact elements like sautés in second position and rapid footwork, making it an excellent choice for dancers looking to improve their cardiovascular endurance and agility. As this is a cardio-heavy session, it can be performed in sneakers or on a rug to provide better shock absorption for your joints. Julie emphasizes the value of repetition, encouraging you to hit the floor with intent and stay low to the ground for maximum control.
By the end of this session, you will have put together several intricate combinations that challenge both your memory and your muscles. Whether you are preparing for a specific role or simply want to add variety to your training, this character dance workout offers a fun and demanding way to expand your ballet vocabulary.
