What You'll Learn
- How to correctly shape the foot in a plié en pointe to avoid toe pain and jamming.
- The technical breakdown of piqué ballonné for better weight transfer and fluidity.
- Strategies for hopping en pointe by utilizing the shoe's shank for maximum support.
- Refining alignment and stability during développé and sous-sus combinations.
About This Video
Welcome to Class #8 of the Broche Ballet Beginner Pointe Summer Cohort. In this session, we dive deep into the technical nuances that separate basic standing from true dancing en pointe. We focus specifically on two vital elements: the piqué ballonné and the functional plié en pointe.
Understanding how to shape the foot while the knees are bent is crucial for every dancer's progression. Many beginners struggle with pain when attempting to hop or change positions; often, this is due to "jamming" the toes into the box of the shoe. Our instructor demonstrates how to avoid this by crisscrossing the heels in a plié position, ensuring you are supported by the shank of the shoe rather than just the tips of your toes.
This alignment is foundational for safely executing hops and transitions without discomfort. We also work through a comprehensive sequence involving sous-sus and développé. By practicing développé to the front and side while maintaining a stable plié en pointe, you build the specific ankle strength and core stability required for advanced variations.
This class emphasizes the importance of slow, controlled repetitions to build muscle memory. Proper alignment isn't just about aesthetics; it is about longevity and dancing with confidence. As we move through the piqué ballonné, pay close attention to the transfer of weight and the "spring" found in the demi-plié before the lift.
This class is designed to challenge your control while providing the technical tools necessary to feel secure in your shoes. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine these essential movements, preparing you for more complex combinations and one-legged relevé work in the weeks to come.
