What You'll Learn
- Technical execution of the tombé with a dégagé-like stretch in the back foot
- Principles of graceful port de bras to maintain a soft look during difficult steps
- How to coordinate the waltz and balancé movements with upper body fluidity
- Proper alignment of the chest and midline for improved center balance
- The art of the révérence to conclude a ballet class with elegance
About This Video
Transitioning from the barre to the center is a pivotal moment in any dancer’s journey. In this Broche Ballet session, we focus on the fundamental movements that define center work: the tombé, balancé, and the waltz. This class is designed to help beginner students bridge the gap between technical precision and artistic fluidity.
We start by deconstructing the tombé. To make this movement look soft yet technically sound, you must ensure your chest stays lifted and facing forward. A key tip shared in this lesson is to treat the back foot like a dégagé, stretching it behind you to create length and stability.
This attention to detail prevents the movement from looking heavy and instead gives it a delicate, professional appearance. Moving into the balancé and waltz steps, we explore the importance of port de bras. Many dancers struggle with maintaining a relaxed look during challenging center sequences.
The secret lies in the arms; by keeping your port de bras open and ensuring your hands barely cross the midline, you create a sense of ease. A small, circular motion in the arms helps soften the overall silhouette, even when the legs are working hard. This class also covers the pas de bourrée and simple adagio movements, emphasizing how to use your core to maintain a strong center of gravity.
Finally, we conclude with a traditional révérence. This final pose is more than just a bow; it is a moment to show grace, reflecting on the progress made during the lesson. Whether you are practicing at home or in a studio, these exercises will help you develop the muscle memory needed for more complex combinations.
Join our Broche Ballet community and discover how subtle adjustments in your upper body and footwork can transform your center practice into a beautiful performance.
