Cinderella Summer Fairy: A Classical Ballet Variation Workshop with Anne Beard

Step into the enchanting world of Prokofiev’s classical masterpiece with our detailed look at the Cinderella Summer Fairy variation. This iconic solo is a celebration of warmth, light, and vibrant energy, making it a favorite for dancers looking to showcase their lyrical artistry and technical precision. In this instructional video, Broche Ballet instructor Anne Beard breaks down the nuances of the Summer Fairy, helping you bring this seasonal character to life on stage or in the studio.

The Summer Fairy variation is characterized by its delicate yet crisp footwork and expansive port de bras. Anne guides you through the specific stylistic elements that define the role, emphasizing the importance of épaulement and head placement to convey the fairy's ethereal nature. You will focus on executing clean dégagé movements and maintaining a fluid transition through every plié, ensuring your performance remains graceful and continuous. For those working en pointe, the lesson offers valuable insights into articulation and strength, though the choreography can be beautifully adapted for dancers on flat.

Musicality is a key focus of this session. Prokofiev’s score for Cinderella is famously intricate, requiring the dancer to have a sophisticated understanding of phrasing. Anne demonstrates how to breathe with the music, allowing your movements to swell and subside in harmony with the orchestral notes. This attention to timing is what transforms a series of steps into a true performance.

By practicing this variation with Broche Ballet, you will not only learn the specific choreography but also improve your overall performance quality. Whether you are preparing for a production of Cinderella or simply wish to challenge yourself with professional-level repertoire, this video provides the tools necessary to dance with confidence and poise. Join us as we explore the beauty and technical demands of the Summer Fairy.