What You'll Learn
- The precise sequence and mechanics of the en dehors piqué turn (step over turn).
- How to execute a piqué ballonné with proper arm carriage and timing.
- Techniques for maintaining balance and momentum while turning on one leg.
- Effective transitions between tombé, glissade, and pas de bourrée.
- Strategic arm closure timing to prevent loss of balance during rotation.
About This Video
Welcome to a comprehensive technical breakdown from Broche Ballet focusing on one of the most distinctive turns in the ballet repertoire: the step over turn, or piqué tour en dehors. Often colloquially referred to as the lame duck turn, this movement requires a unique combination of strength, timing, and precise weight transfer. In this twenty-nine-minute practice session, we dive deep into the mechanics of the step over turn, ensuring you understand the relationship between the initial tombé and the following piqué action.
Mastering this step is essential for any dancer looking to add flair and technical precision to their center work. We begin by isolating the components of the turn, focusing specifically on the piqué ballonné. You will learn how to coordinate your arm placement to assist with balance rather than hindering your momentum.
The instructor emphasizes the importance of waiting until the exact right moment to close your arms during the turn. Closing too early can cause a loss of balance, while closing too late may stall your rotation. Throughout the class, we explore the versatility of the piqué step, demonstrating how it can land in various directions or serve as a fluid transition into other movements like the pas de bourrée or glissade.
As we progress, we piece these individual steps into more complex combinations. You will practice a sequence that incorporates the piqué ballonné, pas de bourrée, and the step over turn itself, challenging your ability to maintain control while spinning on one leg. The lesson also covers auxiliary movements such as the sous-sus and soutenu to round out your technical vocabulary.
By the end of this session, you will have a clearer understanding of how to execute these challenging turns with grace and stability. Whether you are practicing at home or in the studio, these drills are designed to build the muscle memory necessary for effortless execution. Join Broche Ballet as we break down the step over turn step by step, giving you the tools to turn with confidence and poise.
