What You'll Learn
- Technical methods for transitioning from the barre to the center en pointe
- Comparison of the technical sus-sous versus the climb method for rising
- Center-focused exercises including tendu, coup-de-pied, and pas de cheval
- Strategies for weight transfer and maintaining balance during traveling steps
About This Video
Transitioning from the stability of the barre to the center of the room is a significant milestone for any dancer en pointe. In this Quick 10-minute session from Broche Ballet, we focus on venturing off the barre through a blend of technical precision and playful exploration. Whether you are an intermediate student looking to find your balance or an advanced dancer wanting a quick center refresh, this class provides the tools to build confidence away from your support system.
The class begins with foundational work on flat feet to establish alignment and muscle memory. You will work through essential movements like tendu, coup-de-pied, pas de cheval, and dégagé. These exercises are designed to prime your ankles and toes for the weight of your pointe shoes without the distraction of finding your balance just yet. By focusing on the articulation of the foot while flat, you prepare the body for the more demanding work of rising en pointe.
One of the highlights of this tutorial is the exploration of how we actually get up onto our toes in the center. Our instructor breaks down multiple methods: the strictly technical sus-sous, pushing over to the back leg, or the more accessible climb method. By understanding these different approaches, you can find the mechanics that feel most secure for your body. We emphasize the climb method as a way to play and explore the capabilities of your shoes, helping you feel less rigid and more organic in your movement.
As the class progresses, we move into more dynamic center work. You will learn how to operate your pointe shoes effectively, using your arches and toes to create shape and stability. We also touch on traveling movements and weight transfers, which introduce quick footwork and the beginning of center turns. At Broche Ballet, we believe that pointe work should be as much about exploration as it is about discipline. This short but effective video encourages you to let go of the barre and discover the joy of dancing en pointe with control and artistry.
