What You'll Learn
- How to translate a character's personality into classical ballet movement
- Techniques for maintaining stability during fast-paced, syncopated choreography
- The importance of musicality and sharp timing in theatrical ballet pieces
- Tips for styling your port de bras to match a non-traditional, spooky theme
- Integrating character-driven épaulement into standard footwork
About This Video
Welcome to a unique fusion of spooky theatricality and classical grace. This preview showcases an original ballet choreography runthrough set to the iconic 'Oogie Boogie’s Song' from the holiday classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas. At Broche Ballet, we believe that dance should be as expressive as it is technical, and there is no better way to practice your artistry than through character-driven pieces that challenge your musicality.
In this performance preview, you will see how traditional ballet movements like the arabesque and sharp dégagé steps are adapted to fit the mischievous and jazz-inflected rhythm of the score. Whether you are a dancer who performs en pointe or in flat shoes, character work requires a deep understanding of your center and a playful, intentional approach to your port de bras. The choreography featured in this video demands clean relevé transitions and precise footwork to match the syncopated beat of the music.
Watch closely for the way the dancer maintains turnout during complex combinations, ensuring that every plié is grounded and every sauté is explosive and well-timed. This isn't just a technical exercise; it's a lesson in performance. Character ballet allows dancers to step outside the traditional classical mold and explore more dynamic, grounded, and theatrical movements.
As you watch this runthrough, pay attention to the specific musicality. Notice how the accents in the movement align with the lyrics, and how even a simple tendu can convey a sense of villainous flair through the use of épaulement and head placement. If you are looking to expand your repertoire and bring more personality to your dancing, this Nightmare Before Christmas-inspired routine offers excellent inspiration.
Broche Ballet provides the specialized instruction needed to master these complex sequences from your own home studio.
