What You'll Learn
- The specific phrasing and musicality required for the Swan Lake Pas de Trois
- How to maintain classical line and port de bras during allegro movements
- Visual cues for weight distribution in complex variation footwork
- Artistic expression and stage presence for classical repertoire
About This Video
In this featured performance from the 2024 International Amateur Ballet Festival (IABF), Olivia Exum presents the intricate and lively Variation 2 from the Swan Lake Pas de Trois. While this video captures a live stage performance rather than a traditional classroom setting, there is immense value for students of Broche Ballet in observing the technical execution and artistic nuances required for such a demanding piece of classical repertoire. The Pas de Trois from Act 1 of Swan Lake is celebrated for its bright, allegro movements and precise footwork.
Olivia showcases the essential qualities of a variation performer: a strong sense of line, coordinated port de bras, and the ability to maintain composure during challenging sequences. Aspiring dancers can observe how she prepares for pirouettes and manages the weight transfers necessary for clean relevé work. Even without a formal tutorial, watching the way a dancer navigates the stage space provides a masterclass in spatial awareness and performance presence.
At Broche Ballet, we believe that watching professional and high-level amateur performances is a critical component of a dancer's education. It allows students to bridge the gap between studio exercises at the barre and the fluid storytelling of center work. By analyzing the phrasing in this variation, you can learn how to breathe through your movements, making even the most difficult sauté or dégagé appear effortless.
Whether you are currently studying the Swan Lake variations or looking to improve your overall classical technique, Olivia’s performance serves as both inspiration and a visual guide for Variation 2. Notice the sharp articulation of the feet and the graceful carriage of the upper body—hallmarks of a dancer who has dedicated time to mastering the foundational principles of ballet. Dive into this performance to deepen your understanding of the Swan Lake legacy and refine your own artistic eye.
