What You'll Learn
- The importance of unison and spacing in a corps de ballet setting
- Stylistic elements of the classical Dream Scene in Don Quixote
- How to transition between complex group formations with grace
- Analysis of port de bras and upper body alignment in romantic repertoire
About This Video
The "Dream Scene" from the classical ballet Don Quixote is a cornerstone of the repertoire, representing a moment of ethereal beauty and technical precision. In this excerpt from the International Adult Ballet Festival (IABF) 2024, we witness a dedicated corps de ballet bringing the vision of the Knight of the Woeful Countenance to life. This scene, originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and set to the music of Ludwig Minkus, requires immense control and a shared breath among the dancers.
As Don Quixote dreams of his lady Dulcinea, he enters an enchanted forest filled with Dryads. For the corps de ballet, this means maintaining perfect geometry while performing delicate movements en pointe. The challenge lies not just in the individual technique—executing a clean tendu or a balanced arabesque—but in the collective execution.
Every port de bras must be synchronized, and every plié must reach its depth at the exact same moment to create the "living landscape" effect that characterizes the greatest classical ballets. At Broche Ballet, we believe that understanding the intricacies of the corps de ballet is essential for any maturing dancer. Studying scenes like the Dream Scene helps students grasp the importance of spatial awareness and musicality.
Observing how these dancers move from one formation to another teaches you about the "ballet of the group," where the individual disappears into the harmony of the whole. Whether you are working toward your first performance or are a seasoned student, analyzing the footwork and alignment in this excerpt can provide valuable insights into your own practice. From the sharp dégagé movements to the soft, rounded arms of the Romantic style, this performance captures the essence of the Dryads' world.
Pay close attention to the transitions; see how the dancers use a subtle relevé to move gracefully through space. By watching this IABF 2024 performance, you can deepen your appreciation for the discipline required to make such complex choreography look effortless.
