Beginner Pointe Class: Bourrée Technique and Controlled Descents

Welcome back to the Broche Ballet Summer 2021 Cohort! In this thirteenth installment of our beginner pointe series, we focus on the finesse required to move elegantly en pointe. This lesson is designed to help you move past the basics and start adding texture to your dancing through more complex footwork and transitions.

We begin by reviewing the vital skill of controlling your descent. When dancing en pointe, the way you come down is just as important as how you go up. We focus specifically on rolling down off one leg with extreme control.

This prevents the jarring clunk that can happen when gravity takes over, protecting your joints and maintaining the artistic line. We utilize the scooping sous-sus technique to ensure your weight is centered and your ankles are supported before every descent. A major highlight of this class is our deep dive into bourrée technique.

Often described as a shimmering or fluttering movement, a beautiful bourrée requires flexible ankles and quick, minute movements of the knees. We practice the specific shimmer action, learning how to wiggle the knees while maintaining a strong connection to the floor. We also integrate these into steps like pas de bourrée and serré movements to build coordination.

Finally, we introduce the échappé. This escaping movement requires you to shoot your legs out from a closed position to a second position en pointe. It is a foundational step for center work and requires significant strength and timing.

We break down the mechanics so you can practice safely. To wrap up, we prioritize foot health with targeted stretches for the Achilles tendons, ensuring your recovery is as productive as your practice. Join us at Broche Ballet to refine these essential skills and elevate your pointe work to the next level of artistry and technical precision.