What You'll Learn
- The correct mechanics for relevé coup de pied and passé en pointe.
- Exercises for developing soft ankles and better shoe articulation.
- How to perform elegant bourrées using small, beaded steps.
- The role of penguin walks in building inner thigh and ankle stability.
- Strategies for maintaining contact between the legs during complex footwork.
About This Video
Welcome to Class #9 of the Broche Ballet Summer 2021 Cohort, specifically designed for dancers navigating their first year on pointe. In this session, we transition from foundational rises into the more dynamic movements of relevé coup de pied and relevé passé. Mastering these positions is a milestone in any dancer's journey, as it requires a delicate balance of strength, placement, and ankle flexibility.
A significant portion of this lesson is dedicated to the concept of soft ankles. Many beginner students struggle with stiff ankles that fight the shank of the pointe shoe. We break down how to allow the ankle to flex and curve the shank, which is essential for achieving a beautiful line and performing bourrées—also known as beaded steps or drunken steps.
By focusing on small, controlled steps and penguin walks, you will build the necessary muscle memory to keep your thighs connected and your movements fluid. The instructor provides detailed guidance on the mechanics of the bourrée, explaining how to flex the ankle and take tiny, rapid steps that create the illusion of gliding across the floor. We also revisit the importance of a deep plié on pointe to facilitate powerful transitions.
Throughout this class, you will find encouragement to embrace the technical stages of learning new mechanics, moving toward a place of greater confidence and elegance. At Broche Ballet, we believe that adult learners deserve professional, technical breakdowns that respect the unique challenges of starting pointe work later in life. Whether you are refining your relevé passé or working on your foot articulation, this class offers the structured practice needed to see tangible progress week over week.
Get ready to feel stronger, more stable, and more graceful in your shoes.
