What You'll Learn
- Refining the 3rd Shade variation from Act III of La Bayadère en pointe
- Technical execution of tombé, pas de bourrée, and piqué sequences
- Developing stability in attitude and sous-sus positions
- Coordinating passé movements with proper timing and precision
- Improving turn control and alignment for classical repertoire
About This Video
Step into the ethereal world of "The Kingdom of the Shades" with this specialized practice session focusing on the 3rd Shade variation from Act III of La Bayadère. This legendary ballet requires not only technical precision but also a keen sense of artistry and ensemble coordination. In this Broche Ballet class, we dive deep into the specific movements required to execute this variation with grace and control while en pointe.
The sequence begins with foundational poses that set the tone for the classical variation. You will practice maintaining a strong, square line in attitude and finding stability in sous-sus positions, ensuring your cinquième (fifth) position is locked and secure before moving into more dynamic steps. The 3rd Shade variation is famous for its repetitive yet demanding footwork, requiring dancers to transition seamlessly between passé movements and controlled turns in both directions. Timing is everything in this variation; hence, we focus on the coordination of the head, arms, and legs to achieve the desired ensemble effect.
A major focus of this session is the transition between steps. We break down the technical nuances of the tombé pas de bourrée into a sharp piqué, emphasizing the importance of weight placement and the "push" from the floor. These technical elements are crucial for maintaining the "floating" quality characteristic of the Shades. As you work through the chassé sequences, pay close attention to your foot placement and the tracking of your knees over your toes to ensure every movement is crisp and intentional.
The exercise sequence involves a series of complex turns, including tombé movements that require extreme control during the descent. By practicing these turns repeatedly, you will gain the confidence needed to perform them in a center-floor setting. Whether you are preparing for a stage performance or simply looking to challenge your pointe work through classical repertoire, this practice video offers the repetitive drills needed to build muscle memory. Join our community at Broche Ballet to refine your technique and bring the magic of La Bayadère to your home studio.
