What You'll Learn
- Techniques to find stability and balance when moving away from the barre into the center.
- The mechanics of the piqué and how to maintain a strong center during weight transfers.
- Exercises to develop hip power and 'escape' the legs during dynamic échappé movements.
- How to combine tendu, tombé, and pas de bourrée for fluid center sequences and turns.
- Strategies for practicing complex footwork like sous-sus and lié with control.
About This Video
Moving from the stability of the barre to the open space of the center is one of the most challenging transitions for any dancer. At Broche Ballet, we believe that venturing off the barre is an exploratory journey of finding your internal anchor. This specialized class focuses on the mechanics of balance and the precision required for center work, specifically targeting piqué and échappé movements. Students will learn how to maintain their center of gravity before attempting weight transfers, ensuring every movement is controlled and purposeful.
The session begins with foundational exercises including plié and tendu to activate the core and prepare the feet. A primary focus is the piqué—a movement that requires immediate stability on a straight leg. We provide modifications for various levels, such as using a relevé and step-back sequence as a precursor to the full piqué. A significant portion of the lesson is dedicated to mastering the échappé. This escaping movement requires explosive power from the hips to propel the body while maintaining vertical alignment. By practicing sequences like plié, sous-sus, and échappé, you will develop the hip connection necessary to move fluidly.
Finally, the class explores turns and floor coverage. By combining tendu, tombé, and pas de bourrée, you will learn how to navigate the studio space with grace. Whether you are practicing en pointe or on flat, this session provides the technical breakdown needed to turn with confidence. We break complex patterns down into slow counts with pauses, allowing you to focus on muscle memory before increasing the tempo. Join us as we explore the freedom of center work and build the strength to dance without the support of the barre.
