Hi Beauties,
Since we started our Choreography Workshops in December, we’ve practiced sequences from four of my favorite classic ballets: Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Coppelia, and Jewels. It has been such a joy to revisit these performances with the Ballet Beautiful community. I hope you are enjoying these workshops as much as I am! Below are some of my tips and tricks for making the most out of your choreography lessons.
Setting Up Your At-Home Dance Studio
When I started these workshops, my goal was to bring the feel of dance and performance to a small place. I remember practicing ballet at home when I was young, using a dining chair or laundry counter as a barre. A small space shouldn’t limit you from dancing; you can take your ballet practice anywhere. Dancers are famously creative and can make any space turn into a dance studio, as we’ve seen during the pandemic. It is all about utilizing the space you’re in to celebrate the dynamic of dance and expression. Clear out a small area where you can move freely and grab a chair, counter, railing, or dresser to use as an at-home barre!
Technique Pro-Tips: Practicing Like a Ballerina
Dance is more than just pretty steps and movements. The details and techniques are crucial for mastering choreography. In my workshops I share important guidance about where your body should be facing, the direction of your movement, and your leg or arm placement. Pay attention to these queues as we go along!
When we are going over the actual dance sequence, I break it down into sections: A, B, C. This makes it easier to remember as a full progression. If you get lost, you should focus on each section and practice them separately. All of our Choreography Workshops are available in your Streaming Library to practice anytime!
In ballet, Port de Bras means ‘carriage of the arms’. It is a foundational move in ballet and in our choreography practice. First position of the arms is the key to the flow of your movement. In first position we have nice round arms in front of you, with the middle fingertips in line with the lower part of the sternum. First position is a neutral position, meaning it leads and flows to all other movements and positions. Port de Bras is an important skill we practice and perfect to make all of our movements flawless.
There are many videos in our Streaming Library that I recommend for practicing and prepping for our Choreography Workshops. Below are some of my favorites!
I can’t wait to see you at our next Livestream!! Yuki xoxo
Join Yuki for Paquita-inspired Choreography Workshops on April 21st and 28th.
+ Don't miss Yuki's Choreography Workshop Livestreams in your Custom Workout Streaming Library!
If you haven't subscribed to the Ballet Beautiful Custom Workout yet, we invite you to join us, no dance experience required. 
