What You'll Learn
- Mastering weight shifting and momentum control during complex center combinations.
- Refining placement and balance en pointe through targeted *relevé passé* and *piqué* exercises.
- Improving *bourrée* turns and transitions from the *barre* to the center.
- Customizing combinations with additions like *rond de jambe* to challenge your technical recall.
- Maintaining proper body alignment and *croisé* placement during *sous-sous* and *dégagé*.
About This Video
Elevate your ballet practice with this comprehensive 40-minute session from Broche Ballet, designed specifically for dancers working en pointe. This class is meticulously structured into two segments: a 25-minute intensive barre focused on foundational strength and a 15-minute center practice emphasizing balance and artistic placement. Led by Julie, you will dive deep into the mechanics of weight shifting and momentum, ensuring your transitions are as fluid as they are precise.
The barre portion of the class targets the essential elements required for stable pointe work. You will work through *pliés*, *dégagés*, and *ronds de jambe*, focusing on the articulation of the foot and the alignment of the hips. These exercises are crucial for building the muscular memory needed to maintain your center when you move away from the support of the *barre*. The focus here is on preparation, ensuring that every *relevé* is grounded and every transition is controlled.
In the center, the focus shifts to more dynamic movements. Julie guides you through *piqué* combinations, including *piqué coupé* options where you can practice rolling down or maintaining the *coupé* position. You will also refine your *relevé passé*, a cornerstone move that demands exceptional control and vertical alignment. The session also covers *bourrée* turns in place, teaching you how to present yourself with elegance while maintaining weight over the supporting leg. The inclusion of *croisé* alignment further helps in understanding the aesthetic and functional 'placement' of the body in space.
Throughout the class, you will learn how to modify combinations to suit your current level or to add an extra challenge, such as incorporating a *rond de jambe* into a standard sequence. By understanding the 'why' behind each movement—such as the importance of weight placement during a *sous-sous*—you will gain the confidence to execute complex routines with greater precision. This class is an excellent resource for any dancer looking to bridge the gap between technical exercises and expressive performance.
