What You'll Learn
- Analyze the regal character and phrasing of the Raymonda Act III variation
- Observe professional en pointe technique and precise footwork
- Understand the use of épaulement to convey personality and style
- Study the integration of character-style movements within classical ballet
- Identify transitions between complex steps like relevé and arabesque
About This Video
Welcome to an exquisite display of classical artistry featuring Erica Centola in the renowned Raymonda Act III variation. Raymonda, originally choreographed by Marius Petipa with a lush score by Alexander Glazunov, remains a cornerstone of the classical repertoire. It is celebrated globally for its unique and challenging blend of Hungarian character dance influences and traditional, rigorous classical ballet technique.
In this captivating 3-minute performance, Erica Centola brings the elegance and poise of the title character to life with remarkable grace. Aspiring dancers and ballet enthusiasts can observe the intricate footwork, the regal use of épaulement, and the precise pointe work that defines this specific variation. At Broche Ballet, we believe that watching professional performances is an essential component of a dancer's holistic education, providing a vital visual guide for understanding musicality and artistic phrasing.
Pay close attention to the seamless transitions between movements throughout the piece. From the initial strong relevé to the expansive final arabesque, Erica demonstrates the extreme control required for professional-level performance. Note the clarity of her passé positions and the unwavering strength displayed in her en pointe sequences.
The variation in Act III is particularly famous for its demanding character-infused movements, requiring the dancer to maintain a sense of noble dignity and Hungarian flair while executing difficult jumps and turns. This video serves as an unofficial masterclass in stage presence and expression. Observe how the dancer uses her focus and port de bras to communicate with the audience, a nuanced skill that is often overlooked in basic technical training.
By carefully analyzing Erica’s performance, students at Broche Ballet can gain deep insights into how to marry technical precision with meaningful artistic storytelling. Enhance your personal ballet journey by integrating this type of performance study into your weekly training routine. This Raymonda Act III performance is a quintessential example of the dedication, strength, and grace we strive to cultivate in our community.
