What You'll Learn
- How to utilize hip drive for a powerful and stable piqué forward.
- The 'drag' technique to improve weight distribution and trust en pointe.
- Proper alignment and core engagement for moving confidently off the barre.
- Strategies for transitioning from fourth position to a secure piqué sous-sus.
- Exercises to strengthen the feet and improve balance in forward movements.
About This Video
Moving away from the support of the barre is one of the most exciting yet challenging milestones in a dancer’s journey, especially when working en pointe. In this specialized class from Broche Ballet, we focus on the foundational mechanics of the piqué forward, providing you with the tools and confidence to step into the center with grace and control. The lesson centers on the concept of 'venturing off the barre' by breaking down the piqué movement into manageable, anatomical cues.
We begin by exploring the importance of hip drive. Rather than simply stepping, you will learn to drive your hips up and forward, ensuring your weight is correctly positioned over the box of your pointe shoe. This forward momentum is essential for maintaining balance and achieving a crisp, clean relevé.
A unique highlight of this session is the 'drag' technique. The instructor demonstrates how dragging the back foot along the floor before stepping down can help you feel the floor and gauge your weight distribution. This method is particularly useful during the 'messy middle' phase of learning, where dancers often feel insecure.
By utilizing this drag, you build a sensory map of the movement, which eventually leads to a more fluid and effortless piqué without the need for additional support. Throughout the practice, we emphasize core engagement and proper alignment. You will work through exercises starting from fourth position, focusing on how to pull your weight into the front foot without becoming crooked.
We also cover the transition into a piqué sous-sus, emphasizing the coordination between the legs and the strength required in the standing foot. Whether you are working on your right or left side, this class provides the feedback and encouragement necessary to perfect your technique. By the end of this session, you will have a deeper understanding of how to use music and alignment to enhance your dancing experience, making the transition to center work a rewarding part of your ballet training.
