DN4332 — Pointe Technique
This course delves into beginning and intermediate pointe work for everyone. While based on classical ballet tradition of technique, the class goes beyond traditional pedagogy by offering this opportunity to all dancers, regardless of gender. Physical class work exploration will be augmented and complemented by analyses into the history of pointe work and the evolution of pointe work and pointe shoes. Students will experiment with the pointe rituals of adapting pointe shoes for personal use including fitting, sewing, and breaking in. Students will take part in fundamental barre and center exercises of beginning pointe work. The class will chronologically analyze the historical role of pointe shoes and women in classical ballet and follow the further current trend of pointe work for all. Students will also examine changes of pointe technique, of the pointe shoe itself, and the transformational effect these changes have had on both women and the art of Classical Ballet will be analyzed through a variety of readings, videos and hands-on materials. No previous pointe work is necessary. prereqs: DN 3231, DN 4331, instructor consent