What You'll Learn
- How to maintain balance during développé and adage work without the support of the barre.
- Techniques to build ankle strength for transferring body weight securely en pointe.
- How to use micro-movements to engage the nervous system and prevent static rigidity.
- Proper execution of center transitions including piqué, pas de bourrée, and soutenu.
- Strategies for core engagement and arm placement to improve stability and line.
About This Video
Moving away from the barre is one of the most significant milestones for any dancer, especially when dancing en pointe. In this specialized 16-minute class from Broche Ballet, we transition your practice into the center, focusing on building the confidence and control needed to perform without the support of the barre. "Venturing Off the Barre" is designed to challenge your stability while refining the delicate details of your footwork and artistic expression.
The lesson begins by addressing the crucial transition from supported work to the center, emphasizing the need for a strong, engaged core and a responsive nervous system. You will explore movements such as the fondu and développé, learning how to maintain balance while extending your legs through space. A key takeaway from this session is the importance of using micro-movements to keep the body active and responsive during slow adage work.
Rather than holding a static, rigid pose, the instructor guides you to find a living, breathing balance that allows for seamless transitions. We dive deep into essential center movements including the piqué, tombé, and pas de bourrée. You will learn how to push off the floor effectively to build the necessary strength in your ankles and feet to support your full body weight.
This strength is vital for performing movements like the balancé and allongé with grace. The instructor provides detailed corrections on maintaining proper alignment, such as looking under and opening the arm correctly to enhance the line of the movement. Throughout the class, we use visualization and rhythmic cues to help you master complex sequences.
By the end of this session, you will have a better understanding of how to manage your weight distribution and how to use your breath to facilitate larger movements. Whether you are refining your soutenu or mastering a temps lié, this practice session offers the tools to help you feel secure and expressive off the barre.
