What You'll Learn
- The art of character-driven performance and dramatic presence.
- Mastering the rhythmic timing and staccato nature of Prokofiev's score.
- Using épaulement and strong posture to convey authority on stage.
- Applying technical foundations like plié and relevé to thematic choreography.
About This Video
The "March of the Knights" from Sergei Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet is one of the most recognizable and powerful scores in the classical ballet repertoire. In this excerpt presented by Broche Ballet, we explore the dramatic intensity and technical precision required to bring this iconic scene to life. Known formally as the "Dance of the Knights" or "Montagues and Capulets," this piece demands a unique blend of grounded strength and regal artistry from every dancer.
As you watch this rehearsal and performance footage, pay close attention to the use of épaulement and the deliberate transitions between positions. Mastery of this piece requires more than just technical accuracy; it requires the ability to convey the historical weight and tension of the legendary feud. From the sharp, accented tendus that initiate movement to the deep, resonant pliés that provide the power for the march, every step is a calculation of drama.
At Broche Ballet, we emphasize that repertoire study is essential for developing a student's performance quality. This video serves as a fantastic study in character-driven movement. Notice how the dancers maintain a stable core to support the upright, noble posture of the knights, and how their relevé remains controlled despite the heavy, rhythmic pulse of the music.
Whether you are a student looking to refine your arabesque lines or an enthusiast wanting to understand the mechanics of stage presence, this excerpt provides valuable insights into the world of professional ballet. By analyzing these performances, you can learn to balance the technical demands of a high-level class with the expressive needs of a narrative performance. This focus on intentional movement is what separates a student from a true performer, turning a standard exercise into a piece of living art.
