What You'll Learn
- Finding stability and centering while transitioning away from the barre.
- Executing precise piqué to sous-sous movements with correct foot shaping.
- Coordinating fluid port de bras with complex footwork in croisé.
- Building single-leg strength through fondu and relevé combinations.
- Mastering fouetté changé and balance transitions in the center.
About This Video
Moving away from the safety of the barre is one of the most challenging and rewarding milestones in a dancer's journey. In this Broche Ballet class, "Venturing Off the Barre: Explore & Play," we focus on the essential skills required to find your center and maintain stability while dancing en pointe. This lesson is specifically designed for intermediate to advanced dancers who want to bridge the gap between barre exercises and fluid center combinations.
The class begins with exercises that prioritize alignment and control. You will work through foundational movements like plié and relevé, but with an added emphasis on weight placement and core engagement. By practicing tendu and fondu sequences, you will develop the strength in your feet and ankles necessary to hold your balance without the support of the barre.
We also delve into the nuances of croisé positions, ensuring your port de bras is integrated into your movement rather than just an afterthought. One of the key focuses of this session is piqué work. You will practice stepping up into a clean sous-sous, focusing on the beautiful shape of the foot and the timing of the ascent.
Transitioning through fourth position with pliés and relevés helps build the explosive power needed for more advanced center work. We also incorporate cou-de-pied positions and fouetté changé to challenge your proprioception and turnout. Maintaining balance while standing on one leg is a central theme.
We explore how to move forcefully yet gracefully, using the arms to stabilize the body during shifts in weight. By the end of the class, you will have a better understanding of how to find your verticality and express yourself through movement without needing a hand on the barre. Whether you are preparing for variations or simply want to feel more secure en pointe, this "Explore & Play" session provides the tools to elevate your technique.
