What You'll Learn
- How to achieve a tight, gap-free sous-sus position by aligning the ankles correctly.
- The regional differences between moving the front foot versus the back foot to enter the position.
- Proper sliding mechanics during the relevé to ensure a stable and controlled ascent.
- How to translate the meaning of 'over-under' into a professional-looking silhouette.
About This Video
The sous-sus is one of the most foundational yet essential positions in a dancer’s repertoire. Often introduced early in training, this movement transforms a standard fifth position into a dynamic, tightly crossed rise on demi-pointe. At Broche Ballet, we believe that understanding the mechanics behind these 'simple' steps is the key to unlocking advanced grace and stability.
In this tutorial, we break down the sous-sus from the ground up. The term itself translates to 'over-under,' describing the way the feet stack together. Unlike a standard relevé in fifth position where the feet may remain slightly apart, a true sous-sus requires the legs to be pulled together so tightly that they appear as one single column. To achieve this, focus on bringing the inside of your front ankle toward the outside of your back ankle. This eliminates the 'daylight' between your thighs and shins, creating a streamlined silhouette. This 'locking' of the legs is crucial for balance, especially when preparing for turns or more complex center work.
One of the most interesting aspects of the sous-sus is how it varies across different ballet schools and regional techniques. Depending on your training background, you might move into the position differently. In many American-style classes, the emphasis is often on moving the front foot back to meet the back foot. Conversely, in the Russian (Vaganova) or French schools, the back foot typically pulls forward to meet the front foot. Understanding these nuances allows you to adapt your technique to various choreographic requirements and enhances your overall versatility as an adult dancer.
When practicing your sous-sus, pay close attention to the slide of the feet. Instead of simply jumping onto the toes, imagine you are sliding your feet together across the floor before reaching the height of your relevé. This ensures a controlled ascent and a solid landing back in fifth position. Whether you are performing this at the barre or in the center, a strong sous-sus provides the necessary foundation for more complex movements. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine these essential details to help you dance with confidence and precision.
