What You'll Learn
- How to properly articulate the feet to roll through the pointe shoe box.
- Techniques for a stable, well-crossed sous-sus at the barre and in the center.
- Introductory port de bras to improve balance and core engagement en pointe.
- Methods for maintaining 'long toes' to prevent knuckling and improve foot strength.
About This Video
Welcome to Class #2 of the Broche Ballet 16-week Beginner Pointe Program. This 30-minute session is designed to bridge the gap between basic standing and fluid movement en pointe. A primary focus of today’s lesson is foot articulation—the art of rolling through the demi-pointe and the box of the shoe rather than 'popping' up onto the platform. Proper articulation is the secret to both safety and the ethereal grace associated with professional pointe work.
We begin at the barre, revisiting foundational movements like plié and relevé to warm up the ankles and metatarsals. You will learn the mechanics of the sous-sus, focusing on a tight, crossed fifth position and maintaining a strong center. The instructor emphasizes 'long toes,' encouraging you to reach toward the tip of the shoe to avoid knuckling or gripping, which can lead to discomfort.
As we progress, the class introduces port de bras off the barre, challenging your balance and forcing you to find your center of gravity. You will practice combinations involving coup-de-pied and petit battement, which help build the intricate muscle memory required for more advanced center work. The lesson concludes with a 'dancing' combination that puts these elements together, allowing you to feel the transition from technical exercise to artistic expression.
At Broche Ballet, we prioritize your longevity as a dancer. This class includes important reminders on pain management and shoe fit. As a reminder, you should never begin pointe work without the explicit approval and supervision of a professional ballet instructor. Join us for Class #2 as we continue to build a solid, beautiful foundation for your journey en pointe.
