What You'll Learn
- Technical breakdown of the Italian fouetté including leg pathways and arm timing
- Strategies for maintaining balance in arabesque promenade using back engagement
- Alignment techniques for petit battement to stay centered off the barre
- Tips for en dedans rotations by leading with the shoulder and arm reach
About This Video
Elevate your center practice with this focused 21-minute intermediate ballet class from Broche Ballet. Transitioning from the barre to the center requires a heightened sense of core engagement and precision, particularly when tackling advanced movements like the Italian fouetté. This session is designed for the intermediate dancer looking to bridge the gap between basic turns and complex, multi-directional rotations.
We begin by addressing foundational stability in movements such as petit battement and fondu. A key focus here is maintaining proper alignment—keeping the hip bone directly over the heel. By leaning slightly back into the space when necessary, you can ensure your weight remains centered, allowing for faster and cleaner footwork.
As we move into adagio, the class tackles the notoriously difficult promenade in arabesque. You will learn to use small, controlled 'scoot' movements and a specific twisting sensation in the back to maintain a steady line without rocking the torso. The centerpiece of this lesson is the technical breakdown of the Italian fouetté.
Many dancers struggle with maintaining momentum throughout this step. Our instructor demonstrates how keeping the arms in first position during the rotation preserves energy, only opening to the final pose at the very peak of the movement. You will practice the correct pathway for the working leg as it travels through front, side, and back positions before hitting a crisp attitude or écarté line.
Finally, the class covers the nuances of en dedans rotations, such as the piqué and sous-tenu. By focusing on leading with the shoulder and reaching forward with the arm, you can drive the body correctly through the turn. Whether you are working toward a performance or simply want to strengthen your technique, this class offers the professional insights needed to master these challenging intermediate sequences with grace and control.
