What You'll Learn
- How to connect the upper body to the lower body for enhanced stability en pointe
- Techniques for preparing the back and shoulders to achieve more consistent pirouettes
- How to maintain 'heft' and compression to support your weight during center work
- Proper elbow and port de bras placement during transitions like chassé and pas de bourrée
- Drills for improving piqué arabesque alignment and controlled pointe chutes
About This Video
In this intermediate-level pointe class, Broche Ballet invites you to dive deep into the mechanics of upper body stability and its direct impact on center work. Many dancers struggle with stability en pointe because they focus solely on their feet. However, true control comes from a functional connection between the back, shoulders, and heels. This session is designed to help you bridge that gap, ensuring your upper body supports your lower body throughout every combination.
The class begins with a comprehensive barre sequence, where we utilize foundational exercises like tendu and plié to establish a sense of 'heft' or compression in the body. This compression is not about being heavy; rather, it is about creating a grounded lift. You will learn to engage your back muscles and feel a specific sense of weight under the armpits—a technique that is absolutely crucial for maintaining balance during a pointe chute or a demi-pointe chute. By focusing on the shoulder blades and back, you create a stable frame that allows the legs to move with more freedom and precision.
As we move into the center, the focus shifts toward more complex movements such as the piqué arabesque and pas de bourrée. We specifically address the mechanics of pirouettes, emphasizing that the back must be just as prepared as the foot before any rotation begins. You will learn to keep your hips low and your core engaged to maintain a consistent center of gravity. We also explore the importance of the elbows in movements like the chassé; by keeping weight in the elbows, you prevent the upper body from collapsing during transitions.
Throughout the lesson, the instructor provides detailed guidance on port de bras, encouraging soft fingers while maintaining a strong, compact frame in the shoulders. This balance of strength and grace is the hallmark of advanced pointe work. Whether you are refining your arabesque or seeking more consistent turns, this Broche Ballet practice provides the technical breakdown necessary to elevate your artistry and confidence en pointe.
