What You'll Learn
- The three core components of a proper pas de bourrée: tombé, coupé, and relevé.
- How to chain multiple steps together for fluid, traveling sequences across the floor.
- Essential calf stretches and strengthening exercises for pointe work recovery.
- Tips for maintaining alignment, turnout, and lightness while dancing en pointe.
About This Video
The pas de bourrée is a cornerstone of ballet movement, and in this 42-minute session from the Broche Ballet 2025 Cohort, we dive deep into its mechanics specifically for beginner pointe dancers. This class is designed to help you transition from simple barre exercises to more complex center work while wearing your pointe shoes. We begin by dissecting the fundamental components of the step: the tombé, the coupé, and the transition through demi-pointe.
A key focus of this lesson is the quality of movement. The instructor emphasizes the importance of a quick turnover and maintaining a light feeling in the feet to avoid sinking into the shoes. You will learn how to maintain your turnout and posture while executing rapid-fire steps across the floor.
As the lesson progresses, we move beyond the basics to explore variations, including chaining multiple pas de bourrée together and incorporating fondu and sous-sus to build the necessary ankle stability and strength. The class also addresses common technical pitfalls, such as heavy steps or losing alignment during transitions. By practicing slowly and focusing on the precision of the coupé and tombé, you will develop the muscle memory required for faster tempos.
To ensure a well-rounded practice, the session includes specific calf stretches and leg exercises designed to alleviate tension and improve flexibility. Join us at Broche Ballet to refine your technique and gain the confidence to move gracefully en pointe.