What You'll Learn
- How to use the demi-pointe position to create a 'broken shoe' look during the transition.
- The proper way to slide through the foot during a tombé to avoid rolling down.
- Techniques for using your toes to propel your weight forward with control.
- How to coordinate the push-off and weight transfer for a fluid, 'up and over' motion.
About This Video
The ballet tombé, which literally translates to "falling," is a fundamental movement used to transition between steps. While it may seem like a simple shift of weight, the technical execution of the feet during a tombé distinguishes an amateur performance from a professional one. In this Quick Tip from Broche Ballet, we explore how to maintain beautiful footwork and control during this essential transition. The secret to a successful tombé lies in the articulation of the foot and the intentional use of the floor to create a sense of lift even as you fall.
One of the most critical aspects of a graceful tombé is emphasizing the demi-pointe position as you descend. Instead of simply dropping the heel or rolling down from a pointed position, you should slide through the foot. This creates a "broken shoe" aesthetic that highlights the arch and strength of the metatarsals. By maintaining this demi-pointe transition, you ensure that the movement remains fluid rather than clunky. This technique is particularly important for dancers working en pointe, as it protects the box of the shoe and ensures a safe, controlled landing.
Propulsion is another key element. To move through a tombé effectively, you must use your toes to propel yourself onto the shoe. As you initiate the dégagé, focus on the exact moment your toe touches the floor. You want to touch and bend the toe just as you begin to transfer your weight. This "touch and bend" action, combined with a strong push off from the trailing leg, allows both feet to work in harmony. By pushing off as you go "up and over," you achieve a seamless weight transfer that carries momentum into your next movement, whether it is a pas de bourrée or a preparation for a jump. Join Broche Ballet to refine these subtle yet impactful details in your technique.
