What You'll Learn
- Identify and practice two different methods for échappé to improve timing and floor pressure.
- Master the tombé by focusing on heel placement to facilitate smooth transitions off the barre.
- Develop foot strength and articulation through scoops into sous-sus and prancing movements.
- Improve balance by centering weight over the box and maintaining core engagement.
- Enhance stability for one-legged relevés and petit développé sequences.
About This Video
Welcome to Class #13 of the Broche Ballet 2025 cohort. This session is a pivotal step for dancers looking to bridge the gap between the stability of the barre and the freedom of center work. Our focus today is on developing the foundational strength and foot articulation essential for safe and graceful pointe work.
We begin with a detailed sequence of demi-pliés and cambrés to warm up the body, followed by tendu flex exercises designed to maximize mobility within the pointe shoe. A major component of this lesson is the introduction of the échappé technique. We explore two distinct mental and physical approaches: the "up then out" method versus the "out then up" method.
Understanding these variations allows you to adapt to different floor surfaces and find the timing that works best for your body. As we move through the class, we integrate fondu and tombé exercises. A common pitfall for beginners is turning the tombé into a simple lunge.
Here, we emphasize the importance of the heel leaving the ground, which distinguishes the movement and prepares you for fluid transitions away from the barre. Proper weight placement is key; you will learn how to center your weight directly over the box of the pointe shoe and engage your core—staying "ready to be punched"—to maintain stability. Furthermore, this class dives into the mechanics of foot articulation through "scoops" into sous-sus and prances.
These movements are critical for building the lower body strength required for one-legged relevés and petit développé. By focusing on keeping the glutes aligned over the standing leg and maintaining a tensed core, you will gain the confidence needed for future off-barre movements. Whether you are working on your piqué or refining your temps lié, Class #13 provides the technical precision necessary for your pointe journey.
