Intermediate Ballet Petite Allegro: Mastering Entrechat Quatre Beats

Welcome to Broche Ballet’s specialized Petite Allegro series. " Mastering petite allegro is about more than just jumping high; it is about the coordination of the feet and the speed of the lower legs while maintaining a stable, strong upper body. In this class, we move beyond the basic sauté to explore the intricate movement patterns of the entrechat quatre.

The instructor guides you through a series of specialized drills designed to help you internalize the specific rhythm of the beat. A common challenge for many dancers is visualizing the legs crossing in the air. We simplify this by focusing on a specific sensation: the "up" of the jump starts with the legs crossing behind, and the "down" involves the change to the front.

By breaking down the jump into these distinct phases, you can build the muscle memory necessary for successful execution. We will practice these motions through a variety of exercises at the barre and in the center. You will work on flicking your feet out to the side while maintaining a strong core—creating a metaphorical "wall" for your legs to move against.

This lateral strength is crucial for preventing the body from wobbling during quick allegro combinations. We also incorporate foundational movements such as plié, relevé, and sous-sus to ensure your base is secure before adding the complexity of the beat. The goal of this session is to develop a strong physical sensation of the movement.

The instructor even provides tips on how to practice these footwork patterns during your daily routine, whether you are waiting for coffee or doing chores. By the end of this class, you will have a solid technical foundation, preparing you to take flight and successfully execute the entrechat quatre jump in our next session. Join us at Broche Ballet to refine your technique and bring more brilliance to your petite allegro.