What You'll Learn
- The correct path for the big toe to trace down the back of the calf from retiré.
- How to transition the foot diagonally through the arch for a clean finish.
- The proper placement of the ankle in the cou-de-pied derrière position.
- Techniques for maintaining connection and control during the descent.
About This Video
Refinement in ballet is often found in the transitions between positions. While many dancers spend hours practicing the perfect retiré, the way we lower the leg is just as vital for maintaining proper alignment, turnout, and technical precision. In this Broche Ballet Quick Tidbit, we explore the specific mechanics required to lower your leg from a retiré in the back (derrière) with grace and accuracy.
The key to a successful descent is maintaining tactile contact with the supporting leg. Start by sliding your big toe down the back of the leg, ensuring it maintains a light but constant touch against the back of the knee. This sensory feedback helps you track your turnout and prevents the working leg from "floating" away from your center of gravity or losing the rotation of the hip.
As your foot travels past the mid-calf, the trajectory changes. Instead of continuing straight down, your big toe should begin tracing a diagonal path across the foot and through the arch. This specific movement prepares the foot for its arrival in the cou-de-pied position. One of the most common mistakes in this transition is focusing too much on the toes; instead, focus on the placement of the ankle. When you reach the cou-de-pied behind, it is the ankle that should be making the primary contact, not the toes digging into the floor or the supporting leg.
By practicing this smooth, sliding motion, you develop the muscle memory needed for more complex movements, such as petits battements or fast petit allegro work. Whether you are practicing at the barre or in the center, these small details make a significant difference in the overall cleanliness and fluidity of your dancing. Join us at Broche Ballet as we break down these essential movements to help you dance with more confidence and professional polish.
