What You'll Learn
- Differentiate between piqué sous-sus and piqué arabesque for better control.
- Improve pirouette speed and balance by optimizing arm and bicep leading.
- Enhance foot articulation with specific flex and point exercises en pointe.
- Execute precise piqué turns in a manège using quick cutting actions.
- Increase stability in sous-sus by aligning hips directly over the toes.
About This Video
Welcome to a comprehensive intermediate pointe class at Broche Ballet, designed for dancers ready to take their technique to the next level. This 57-minute session features a robust barre sequence followed by focused center work, specifically targeting the mechanics of pirouettes and turns en pointe. We begin at the barre with essential exercises to warm up the feet and ankles. You will practice detailed foot articulation, rolling through the three-quarter pointe position and utilizing flex and point movements within your pointe shoes. This foundational work ensures your feet are fully engaged and prepared for the more demanding center combinations to come. Throughout the barre, we emphasize the importance of maintaining a strong sous-sus, focusing on driving the hips forward over the toes to prevent falling back—a common challenge for intermediate dancers.
As we transition to the center, the class shifts focus toward advanced turn preparations and execution. You will explore the nuances between a piqué sous-sus and a piqué arabesque, learning how hip-over-foot alignment dictates a controlled descent. For those looking to improve their pirouettes, the instructor provides invaluable feedback on arm placement. By leading with the bicep and elbow and aiming your arms toward your destination, you can significantly increase turn speed and maintain better balance throughout the rotation. The session also covers piqué turns in a manège (circular pattern). We break down the cutting action of the back leg, which is crucial for staying on your line and preventing drifting. Other movements practiced include tombé, pas de bourrée, balancé, and fondu, all designed to build the stamina and precision required for intermediate performance. Join Broche Ballet for this detailed practice and refine your artistry. Whether you are practicing at home or in a studio, this class provides the technical corrections and guidance needed to feel confident and stable on your pointe shoes. We conclude with a traditional révérence to honor the art form and your hard work.