What You'll Learn
- Master the slow, controlled transitions and supernatural aesthetic of the Queen of the Willies.
- Improve sustained balance in relevé and arabesque positions through specific drills.
- Learn the precise step patterns, arm placements, and épaulement for this Giselle variation.
- Develop professional stage presence by using your gaze and posture to convey character.
- Practice movement reversal to ensure technical symmetry and mental agility.
About This Video
Embrace the haunting elegance of the Romantic era with Broche Ballet’s in-depth exploration of Myrtha, the Queen of the Willies. In Part 1 of this masterclass, we dive deep into the specific choreography from the iconic ballet, Giselle. This 55-minute session is designed to help you transition from simple steps to the authoritative and supernatural presence required of this leading role.
The focus of this lesson is on the technical foundation that makes Myrtha’s movements so captivating. You will begin by breaking down the specific sequence of steps, learning how to look over the right shoulder while stepping with the left foot to create a sense of mystery and command. The Queen of the Willies must exhibit an otherworldly control, which we achieve through focused work on balance and posture.
You will spend significant time practicing sustained relevé and arabesque positions, learning how to linger in a move to captivate your audience. One of the unique challenges of this variation is the haunting look, which requires dancers to slow down their body's internal tempo. We will practice changing feet slowly and transitioning through positions like the arabesque B plus with a deliberate quality.
This requires immense core strength and a deep understanding of body alignment. Instruction at Broche Ballet is always comprehensive. In this class, we don't just learn the right side; we reverse the movements to ensure your technique is symmetrical and your brain is fully engaged in the patterns of the choreography.
This repetition is key to building the confidence needed for stage presence. To wrap up the session, we provide practical advice on dancer health. Because Myrtha’s role is heavy on footwork and relevé, we emphasize the importance of stretching your calves multiple times a day following this practice.
Join us to refine your technique, master a classic variation, and elevate your ballet artistry.
