Deep-dive Ballet Placement Training & Turning Technique with Patricia DeAnna

Elevate your technical foundation with this intensive Deep-dive Placement session at Broche Ballet, led by the expert guidance of Patricia DeAnna. This class is specifically designed for dancers who want to move beyond the basics and truly understand the mechanics of stability, alignment, and rotation. Throughout the session, the focus remains on the fundamental principles that support advanced movement: core engagement, active turnout, and precise body positioning.

One of the primary focuses of this training is the relationship between the core and the ribs. Patricia emphasizes the importance of keeping the ribs closed and the spine elongated to maintain a solid center of gravity. This structural integrity is essential when preparing for turns from fourth position or a tendu.

By avoiding twists in the spine and focusing on rotating the body as a single, cohesive unit—driven by the lower back and hips—dancers can achieve much smoother and more controlled pirouettes. Weight distribution is another key theme explored in this lesson. You will learn how to properly shift your weight onto the supporting leg to allow the hip to push forward effectively.

This transition is vital for maintaining balance in retiré or when propelling yourself into a turn using the energy from a plié. Patricia also provides critical feedback on maintaining turnout; by keeping the hip open and the legs in a perpendicular position, you prevent the 'collapsing' that often leads to falls or loss of momentum. Finally, this training addresses the 'gaze' and the mental discipline required for high-level ballet.

By keeping the eyes up and avoiding the common mistake of looking at the floor, you maintain better alignment of the neck and head, which is crucial for spotting and balance. Whether you are working on your placement at the barre or practicing complex turns in the center, these technical refinements will help you dance with greater confidence and grace.