What You'll Learn
- Master the technique for floating demi-pointe runs using small brushes and a lifted torso.
- Understand professional stage directions including upstage, downstage, and performer-perspective alignment.
- Learn the opening choreography for the Waltz of the Hours including piqué sous-sus and second arabesque.
- Apply specific épaulement and head focus to enhance the festive performance quality of the variation.
- Navigate complex musical transitions between introductory bell tolls and the main waltz meter.
About This Video
Step into the celebratory world of the classic comic ballet Coppélia with this focused tutorial on the Waltz of the Hours. In this first installment covering Section 1, Broche Ballet guides you through the opening choreography of Act III, where the village gathers to celebrate the chiming of the town bells. This variation is famous for its light, festive atmosphere, and this lesson breaks down the technical and artistic nuances required to bring that joy to life on stage or in the studio.
The session begins by establishing the narrative context and the specific stagecraft involved in performing a classical variation. You will learn essential stage directions—including upstage, downstage, and performer-perspective right and left—while understanding the historical context of the raked stage. This foundational knowledge ensures you can navigate any performance space with confidence and professional awareness.
A major technical focus of this class is the execution of demi-pointe runs. To achieve the signature floating quality seen in professional dancers, the instructor emphasizes small brushes against the floor and a lifted torso to maintain a consistent height. You will also practice foundational steps such as piqué, sous-sus, tombé, and sous-tenu, integrating them into a fluid sequence. Special attention is paid to the second arabesque and allongé positions, ensuring your lines are clear and classical. Artistry is at the forefront as we explore épaulement and head placement. By coordinating your eye focus with your port de bras, you will learn how to engage with an audience and convey the festive spirit of the music.
Finally, detailed musicality drills help you transition from the slow introductory bell tolls to the spirited waltz meter. Whether you are working on a precise pas de cheval or a smooth, melting fondu, this class provides the tools to execute this iconic repertoire with grace. Join Broche Ballet to refine your technique and expand your classical repertoire today.
