What You'll Learn
- Master the timing of the transition from a susu into an attitude position within the waltz rhythm
- Refine the tombé, piqué arabesque, and balancé sequence for better traveling flow
- Improve coordination and buoyancy of the cabriole during repetitive phrases
- Enhance performance quality through precision in coupé and upper body placement
About This Video
The Waltz of the Hours from Leo Delibes' classic ballet Coppélia is a cornerstone of the classical repertoire, celebrated for its lyrical charm and precise footwork. This practice video from Broche Ballet is specifically designed to help dancers bridge the gap between learning choreography and performing it with confidence. By focusing on Sections 1 and 2 at full speed, you can refine the transitions and build the muscle memory required for the stage.
The session begins by drilling the transition from a stable susu into a poised attitude position. Mastering this moment is crucial for establishing the waltz rhythm and the ethereal quality of the character. As the sequence progresses, you will practice the traveling combination of a tombé, piqué arabesque, and balancé.
This sequence requires technical precision in the lower body and an expressive use of the head and arms to capture the variation's fluid essence. A key technical highlight of this practice is the cabriole. Performing this step as part of a repetitive traveling phrase demands coordination and strong leg drive.
We focus on the timing of the beat and the landing, ensuring that the movement remains light and buoyant. Additionally, the practice emphasizes the transition through coupé into an arabesque or pose, focusing on the cutting action of the foot and immediate placement. Set to the beautiful phrasing of Ben Thang Du's music, this drill helps you internalize the specific counts of the variation.
Whether you are preparing for a performance or simply wishing to improve your classical variations technique, practicing these specific sections helps build the stamina and precision needed for success. Join Broche Ballet as we refine these essential sequences, focusing on both the athletic requirements and the artistic nuances of the Waltz of the Hours variation.
