What You'll Learn
- The fundamental mazurka step and grapevine variations used in Coppelia.
- Technique for executing cabriole jumps in a circular formation.
- Stylized character arm movements including specific waist-to-open sequences.
- How to integrate pas de basque, balancé, and relevé into fast-paced routines.
- Over a minute of classical character choreography from the Villagers' Mazurka.
About This Video
Step into the charming world of classical ballet with our deep-dive into the Villagers' Mazurka from the iconic ballet, Coppelia. In this first part of our series, the Broche Ballet team leads you through a high-energy, 57-minute session designed to master the first minute of this complex character dance. Character dance is a vital component of the classical repertoire, offering a unique blend of folk-inspired movement and traditional ballet technique.
The class begins with a comprehensive review of the building blocks of the Mazurka. We break down the essential mazurka step, the grapevine, and the rhythmic pas de basque. As we progress, we focus on the cabriole, a jumping step where the legs beat in the air.
You will learn how to execute these cabrioles in a circular pattern, which requires precise spatial awareness and core control. We also incorporate the balancé and relevé to maintain the buoyant, lifting quality necessary for this specific style. A standout feature of this lesson is the focus on port de bras and character-specific arm styling.
Unlike the soft, rounded arms of a romantic ballet, this Mazurka requires sharp, intentional movements. You will practice holding your right arm at the waist before opening it dynamically on count five. Mastering this coordination between the quick footwork and the specific arm accents is key to capturing the festive spirit of the Coppelia villagers.
Throughout the practice, we emphasize the importance of musicality. The choreography is fast-paced and set to a fun, driving beat that will challenge your stamina and memory. By the end of this hour, you will have a solid grasp of over a minute of choreography, having refined your pas de basque and step-touch sequences.
Whether you are using this as a Sunday jumpstart or a technical rehearsal, this class provides the tools to dance with confidence and flair.
