What You'll Learn
- Visualizing the integration of flowing props within classical ballet movements.
- Analyzing stage presence and emotional expression in a solo performance.
- Observing technical execution of en pointe work and balance.
- Understanding the structural elements of contemporary ballet choreography.
About This Video
"Hamamda" is a captivating ballet performance choreographed by Solange M. Segal, featured at the 2024 International Adult Ballet Festival (IABF). This piece stands as a testament to the beauty and technical prowess of adult dancers on the world stage, proving that the art of ballet knows no age limit.
As you watch the performance, pay close attention to the fluid transitions and the dancer's mastery of en pointe technique. The choreography utilizes a large, vibrant pink fabric that extends the dancer's lines, creating a visual spectacle that blends traditional balletic form with contemporary expressive elements. The fabric acts as an extension of the dancer's body, requiring incredible core strength and awareness of space.
For students at Broche Ballet, watching professional-caliber performances like "Hamamda" is an essential part of developing artistic maturity. You can observe how the dancer maintains a strong barre-inspired foundation while executing complex movements such as a high arabesque and delicate port de bras. Notice the precision in every relevé and the controlled, buttery descent into plié, showcasing the eccentric strength required for professional-level solo variations.
The use of the veil requires exceptional coordination; it demands that the dancer maintain their alignment even when the center of gravity shifts with the movement of the cloth. This showcase highlights the "Together We Shine" spirit of the IABF, celebrating the dedication and hard work of adult learners who pursue excellence. Whether you are currently working on your first tendu in class or you are perfecting the rotations of a pirouette, observing the emotional storytelling in Segal's work can provide invaluable insights into stagecraft and performance quality.
By studying the nuances of the performance, from the intentionality of the épaulement to the crispness of the dégagé footwork, dancers of all backgrounds can find new ways to infuse their own practice with passion and grace. The IABF 2024 event brought together dancers from across the globe, and Solange M. Segal’s choreography remains a highlight for its ability to weave technical requirements into a seamless narrative.
At Broche Ballet, we encourage our students to use these performances as a visual textbook. Observe how the dancer uses their breath to initiate movements and how they maintain focus throughout the duration of the piece. This video serves as a perfect example of how technique, when mastered, becomes the servant of the art, allowing for a truly moving experience for the audience.
