What You'll Learn
- How to maintain a calm and relaxed mindset while dancing en pointe without the support of the barre.
- Techniques for fluid pas de bourrée variations and controlled roll-downs.
- Artistic tips for beautiful body lines, including proper heel placement for a graceful curtsy.
- How to coordinate powerful port de bras with center-floor footwork to improve balance.
About This Video
Moving away from the support of the barre is a significant milestone for any dancer. In this Broche Ballet class, we focus on "Venturing Off the Barre" through exploration and play. The goal is to strip away the fear and tension often associated with center pointe work, replacing it with a sense of calm and musicality.
Throughout this session, you will engage in simple, expressive combinations that emphasize movement quality. We begin with foundational movements in parallel to help you "meet the music" with your feet, establishing a solid connection to the floor while en pointe. You will practice controlled roll-downs and transitions, learning how to keep your feet active and responsive.
We delve into port de bras, encouraging you to use your upper body powerfully to offset the demands on your lower body. One of the highlights of this class is the focus on artistry and lines. You will learn specific techniques for a graceful curtsy, including how to push the heel forward to create a professional silhouette—perfect for both the stage and ballet photography.
We also explore variations of the pas de bourrée, teaching you how to play with timing and weight transfer. By focusing on building "calm vibes" and a positive relationship with your feet, you will find that dancing in the center becomes a joyful expression rather than a source of stress. Whether you are practicing your petit allegro or working on catching both feet simultaneously on demi-pointe, this class provides the technical cues needed to feel at home in the center of the studio.