What You'll Learn
- Mastering the transition from piqué passé to piqué attitude with a focus on leg elevation.
- Techniques for a controlled roll-down through demi-pointe to avoid 'dropping' out of steps.
- Incorporating Paquita-inspired stylistic elements into your center combinations.
- Adagio work in pointe shoes focusing on demi-plié, chassé, and fluid leg extensions.
- Building confidence to improvise and create your own pointe sequences in the center.
About This Video
Ready to take your pointe work away from the barre? In this Broche Ballet intermediate class, we dive deep into the artistry and technique of center work en pointe. We focus on three distinct, fun combinations designed to challenge your balance, coordination, and creative thinking while wearing your shoes.
Moving to the center is a significant milestone in any dancer's journey, and this session provides the technical breakdown necessary to feel secure and expressive without the support of the barre. A key focus of this session is the transition from piqué passé to piqué attitude. We explore how to lift the leg into a beautiful piqué attitude, ensuring the foot sneaks behind the body with precision.
To add a touch of classical flair, we incorporate elements inspired by the ballet Paquita, encouraging dancers to bring performance quality into their technical practice. Transitions can often be the most daunting part of center work. We break down the mechanics of the pas de bourrée, emphasizing the importance of aiming for a controlled demi-pointe during the landing.
Instead of rushing or panicking as you come down, you will learn to lengthen the leg into a graceful arabesque as you roll down through the foot. This attention to detail ensures that every movement, from the highest rise to the final plié, remains fluid and professional. The class also covers essential adagio work in pointe shoes.
We practice combinations of demi-plié, chassé, and stretches to build the strength and flexibility required for slow, controlled movements. You will also practice variations of pas de bourrée with pickups, sous-sus, and soutenu, building the stamina needed for longer variations. Finally, at Broche Ballet, we believe in the power of individual artistry.
We encourage you to experiment and even improvise your own sequences. Thinking on your toes—quite literally—helps build the confidence necessary to dance freely in your shoes. Whether you are practicing in a studio or a home space, these combinations will help you feel more grounded and expressive en pointe.
