What You'll Learn
- Techniques for finding and maintaining balance en pointe in the center
- Proper alignment and engagement of the port de bras during relevés
- The mechanics of smooth soutenu turns and pivots without barre support
- Visualizations to improve stability and prevent shoulder tension
- How to transition from a deep demi-plié into a controlled relevé
About This Video
Transitioning from the barre to the center is a milestone in any dancer's journey. In this Broche Ballet class, "Venturing Off the Barre," we focus on building the confidence and technical stability required to dance en pointe without support. This session is designed for dancers ready to explore their balance, refine their relevé technique, and begin moving through space with grace and control.
The class begins with gentle center work to help you find your vertical alignment. We focus on the relationship between the upper body and the legs, emphasizing that a strong relevé starts with a deep plié and engaged port de bras. One of the unique visualizations used in this lesson is the concept of folding down with the elbows while pushing up with the legs.
This counter-movement helps engage the lats and stabilizing muscles, preventing the shoulders from hiking and ensuring a more secure balance in sous-sus. As we move into more dynamic exercises, we explore soutenus and pivoting movements. You will learn the mechanics of a corner soutenu, focusing on keeping a small space between the feet to allow for a smooth pivot without losing your alignment.
We troubleshoot common mistakes in turns, such as losing forward momentum or letting the shoulders rise. By staying forward over the toes and maintaining a strong frame, you will find that venturing off the barre becomes less about fear and more about freedom. Throughout the lesson, we emphasize the importance of the demi-plié as the engine for all pointe work.
Whether you are practicing a simple tendu change or a full soutenu turn, the control of your descent and the power of your ascent are key. Join us at Broche Ballet as we explore and play with these center exercises, helping you achieve a professional level of stability and artistry in your pointe practice.
