What You'll Learn
- Precision techniques for picking up the feet to create sharp, professional lines en pointe.
- Critical hip and spine alignment cues to maintain balance during soutenu turns.
- Refining the pas de bourrée and passé movements for intermediate-level transitions.
- Strength-building exercises for a controlled roll-down through the pointe shoe.
About This Video
Transitioning from beginner to intermediate pointe work requires a rock-solid foundation. In this 26-minute specialized class from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the technical nuances that separate a novice from an intermediate dancer. The focus of this session is achieving 'sharp' and 'clean' movement, ensuring every step at the barre is intentional and anatomically correct. We begin by addressing how to properly pick up the feet and shoes from the floor, emphasizing the strength required in the metatarsals and the precision of the dégagé.
Throughout the barre, our instructor provides detailed cues on hip alignment and spinal engagement. You will learn why keeping the hips forward is critical during turns like the soutenu to prevent falling back and maintain a perfect center of gravity. The class moves through a series of essential combinations including passé, cambré, and adagio movements, all designed to build the muscle memory needed for center work. We pay special attention to the 'roll down' through the shoe, teaching you how to maintain control and grace even in the most demanding transitions.
A highlight of this lesson is the refinement of the pas de bourrée. We move past phonetic interpretations to focus on the true French technique—the 'up-over' action that creates a light, floating aesthetic. By focusing on the 'underneath' of the shoe and the lift in the core, you will develop the strength and confidence necessary to advance your pointe work. Whether you are refining your sous-sus or mastering a tombé, these foundational corrections will provide the clarity and precision required for the next level of your ballet journey.
