What You'll Learn
- Master the mechanics of the piqué fouetté, focusing on suspension and hip-driven momentum.
- Build ankle strength and stability through targeted single-leg relevés at the barre.
- Refine transitions between steps using fluid pas marché and controlled pas de bourrée.
- Improve balance and control during piqué en dedans and en dehors sequences.
- Develop a sense of weightlessness and precision in center pointe combinations.
About This Video
This 46-minute intermediate ballet class at Broche Ballet is meticulously designed for dancers looking to elevate their pointe work through a combination of rigorous barre exercises and complex center combinations. We begin at the barre with a focus on one-handed stability, emphasizing single-leg relevés to build the necessary ankle strength and proprioception for advanced movements. This foundation is essential for maintaining control as we transition into more dynamic center work where balance is paramount.
The heart of the lesson focuses on piqué movements, specifically the mechanics of the piqué fouetté. Dancers will explore the sensation of suspension before the flip, learning how to use momentum from the hips rather than relying on the upper body. We break down the technical nuances of piqué en dedans and piqué en dehors, ensuring that every transition—including pas marché and pas de bourrée—is executed with fluidity and precision. The class also revisits the soutenu to ensure proper closing and alignment during turns.
Throughout the session, our instructor provides real-time guidance on alignment and weight placement. You will learn to find your "moment of weightlessness" in the piqué fouetté by keeping the working leg low and reaching through the space. We also incorporate fondu exercises to develop the strength required for sustained balances. By the end of this class, you will have a deeper understanding of how to manage your weight en pointe, leading to a more confident and expressive performance. Whether you are refining your soutenu or mastering the flip of a fouetté, this class offers the technical depth needed for intermediate progress.