What You'll Learn
- How to integrate Fosse-style isolations with classical ballet technique.
- Developing sharp musicality and syncopated rhythmic precision.
- Refining stage presence and character-driven performance skills.
- Applying foundational plié and dégagé movements to stylized choreography.
About This Video
Step into the world of theatrical elegance with our performance study of Anne Beard’s Rich Man’s Frug from the 2024 International Adult Ballet Festival (IABF). This routine is a masterclass in blending classical ballet precision with the sharp, syncopated aesthetics of mid-century jazz. At Broche Ballet, we prioritize artistic growth alongside technical development, and this video provides the perfect opportunity to observe how professional-level artistry is applied to unique character pieces.
In this performance, you will see how classical elements like a grounded plié and a crisp dégagé serve as the foundation for the piece's stylized movements. The Frug requires an exceptional amount of core control and isolation, which are hallmarks of a strong ballet technique. By observing Anne Beard’s execution, dancers can learn how to maintain their turnout and alignment while exploring the more angular, non-traditional shapes required by the choreography.
One of the key takeaways from this session is the mastery of musicality. The Rich Man’s Frug is famously rhythmically complex. Watch how the dancer uses a sharp tendu to mark the beat and employs a subtle relevé to transition between poses with effortless grace.
These small details are what elevate a performance from a simple sequence of steps to a compelling piece of theater. For adult students at Broche Ballet, studying performances from IABF 2024 provides a roadmap for their own progress. This video highlights the importance of port de bras and head placement in creating a complete character.
Whether you are working at the barre or in the center, the lessons in coordination and characterization found here are invaluable. Furthermore, the use of épaulement and gaze in this performance demonstrates how to communicate with an audience beyond the physical execution of steps. Dive into the nuances of this iconic style and discover how to bring more personality and precision to your own ballet practice.
