What You'll Learn
- Techniques for relaxation and breath control while dancing en pointe in the center
- How to maintain core engagement and vertical alignment without the support of the barre
- Executing center combinations including tendu, passé, and adagio sequences
- Developing a sense of lightness and proper port de bras in croisé positions
- Transitioning smoothly between traveling steps such as chassé and pas de bourrée
About This Video
Take your ballet practice to the next level by venturing away from the support of the barre. In this exploratory center class from Broche Ballet, we focus on the transition from the stability of the barre to the freedom of the open floor. Moving into the center can often feel daunting, especially when dancing en pointe, but this session is designed to help you find your balance through relaxation and mindful technique.
One of the core philosophies of this class is that relaxation is the foundation of strength. As our instructor highlights, step one when working in pointe shoes is to chill out. By releasing unnecessary tension, you allow your body to respond more naturally to the demands of the movement.
We place a heavy emphasis on breath control—reminding you that it is indeed possible and necessary to breathe while en pointe—and keeping the core engaged. This internal connection provides the stability needed to execute movements like sous-sous and port de bras with grace and stability. Throughout the lesson, you will explore a variety of center exercises.
We begin with foundational movements like plié and tendu, gradually building into more complex adagio combinations. You will work on maintaining a sense of lightness in the head and upper body, particularly during croisé (quas-de) movements and traveling steps. The class also covers passé, chassé, and various stepping patterns, allowing you to choose a path that suits your current level, whether that involves a simple pas de bourrée or a more challenging piqué soutenu.
At Broche Ballet, we believe that center work should be an opportunity for exploration and fun. There is no rush; the goal is to focus on proper technique while discovering how your body moves through space. By the end of this session, you will have a better understanding of how to maintain your alignment and poise without the barre, giving you the confidence to dance with greater artistry and freedom.
