What You'll Learn
- Master the mechanics and weight distribution for single-leg relevés en pointe
- Differentiate between the foot placement of an échappé and the forward drive of a sous-sous
- Integrate port de bras with complex center combinations including piqué arabesque
- Learn to pull down from the box with control using foot flexion and core stability
- Improve pivot transitions and foot placement during center work sequences
About This Video
Take your pointe work to the next level with this comprehensive intermediate ballet class from Broche Ballet. This session is specifically designed for dancers who have mastered the basics and are ready to move away from the stability of two hands on the barre to transition into more demanding center work and single-leg exercises. Throughout this 31-minute lesson, we focus on the technical precision required for intermediate en pointe movements, with a special emphasis on the challenging single-leg relevé.
The class begins at the barre with one hand, immediately challenging your balance, core engagement, and alignment during foundational exercises like plié, tendu, and fondu. We dive deep into the mechanics of the échappé and sous-sous, highlighting the subtle but crucial differences in foot positioning and weight distribution. You will learn why the sous-sous requires a slight forward movement to meet the front foot halfway, ensuring a tight, stable line that locks into place, whereas the échappé focuses on the escaping width of the feet.
As we transition to the center, the complexity increases significantly. You will practice combinations that integrate fluid port de bras with dynamic piqué movements and pas de bourrée. A key highlight of this class is mastering the single-leg relevé—a movement that demands significant ankle strength, proprioception, and a sharp focus on vertical alignment.
We provide specific cues to help you find your center of gravity while on one foot, which is essential for more advanced variations. We also explore the piqué arabesque, emphasizing the importance of getting right on top of the box to maintain a long, elegant line. The instructor guides you through the process of pulling yourself down from the box with control, using a flexed foot to ensure a soft and safe landing.
By focusing on the details of picking up the foot during pivots and maintaining precision in every transition, you will build the confidence and strength necessary for advanced pointe work.
