What You'll Learn
- The importance of the static audience viewpoint in classical ballet choreography.
- How to properly find the corner within the 'box' of your foot for better alignment.
- The aesthetic benefits of diagonal positioning to create longer, more flattering body lines.
- How changing your facing direction impacts the character, vibe, and storytelling of a dance.
- Practical tips for transitioning these concepts from barre exercises to center floor work.
About This Video
In classical ballet, every movement is curated for a specific viewpoint. Unlike other art forms where the audience might move around the performer, ballet is traditionally designed for a static audience sitting directly in front of the stage. This fixed perspective is the driving force behind why we face different directions during a performance or class.
At Broche Ballet, we believe that understanding the 'why' behind these placements helps dancers move with more intentionality and grace. When you stand en face (facing front), the body can often look flat or boxy. By shifting your focus toward the corners of the room, you instantly create depth and more flattering lines.
This video explores the mechanics of facing the corner, emphasizing that it is not a literal, physical turn of the entire torso toward a distant point. Instead, it is about finding a small 'box' around your foot and orienting your presence within that space. This subtle adjustment allows for a more three-dimensional look that captures the audience's attention.
Beyond the aesthetics, changing directions influences the character and 'vibe' of a piece. Whether you are performing a simple tendu at the barre or a complex sequence in the center, your orientation communicates a specific role or conversation to the viewer. For example, facing a corner can make an arabesque look significantly longer and more expansive than it would from a side view.
As you progress in your training, you will find that these directions are not just rules, but tools to enhance your storytelling through dance. By mastering these angles, you ensure that every plié and dégagé is presented in its most beautiful light, making your dancing more professional and visually engaging.
