What You'll Learn
- Mastering the spiral motion of the leg to maintain turnout in extensions and arabesque.
- Coordinating internal arm rotation with external leg rotation for a professional port de bras.
- Refining hip mobility by utilizing a functional softening of the knee during attitude swings.
- Maintaining proper wrist and elbow alignment during high-energy grand battements.
- Improving balance and control through precise foot rotation and core engagement.
About This Video
In this comprehensive 45-minute Technique Barre session from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into one of the most challenging aspects of classical dance: the coordination of opposing rotations. While ballet emphasizes external rotation of the legs, commonly known as turnout, it is equally important to master the subtle internal rotation of the arms to achieve a graceful and technically sound port de bras. This class focuses on how to maintain these distinct energies simultaneously without losing alignment, balance, or control.
The lesson begins with a focused look at grand battement and attitude swings. A key takeaway from this session is the functional approach to high extensions. Rather than forcing a straight leg at the expense of hip alignment, students are encouraged to think of an attitude swing as a grand battement that has reached its maximum height, allowing the knee to soften naturally. This method helps loosen the hips and creates a more fluid, aesthetic line. You will learn the specific spiral technique—focusing on rotating the heel downward while the knee moves upward—to maximize your range of motion and maintain turnout at the peak of the movement.
We also spend significant time on upper body stability. A common technical error is allowing the force of the lower body to disturb the placement of the arms. The instructor provides specific cues on keeping the elbow supported and the wrist straight, preventing the wrist from breaking or bending during vigorous movements like grand battements en croix. Whether you are working through pliés, passés, or arabesques, the emphasis remains on maintaining a long, clean line from fingertips to toes. This practice is designed for dancers who wish to move beyond simple repetitions and start understanding the mechanics behind their movements. By focusing on the transitions between positions and the maintenance of turnout in difficult positions like arabesque, you will develop the strength and muscle memory required for professional-level execution. Join us at the barre to refine your technique and bring a new level of sophistication to your dance practice.
