Hidden gems in Études

To set the tone of the ballet, a lone dancer flooded by a spotlight performs a grand plié in fifth position — a step that demands exceptional control.
There are several reasons why this grand plié, a step that dancers start their daily class with, is so difficult. Firstly, when performing a grand plié in the centre, fifth position is a substantially harder position than first. This is because the crossed nature of fifth position creates a smaller platform for the dancer to gauge their balance from.

Adding to the challenge are the dancer’s pointe shoes, which don’t sit completely flush with the floor. The thick sole that runs down the centre of the pointe shoe (that gives necessary support when en pointe) creates an even smaller platform for the dancer to find their balance. Constant adjustments, like mini wobbles, are needed for the dancer to hold their position.

Lander clearly appreciated the technical accomplishment behind the grand plié. Watch out for the moment when a trio of dancers repeat a step between a sequence of allegro and turns. This contrast in movement displays their versatility and control.

Lander’s scene at the barre is nothing short of a masterclass in unison. Only the dancers’ legs are lit, displaying the detailed characteristics of barre work. As the scene progresses, momentum builds, with each row of dancers performing different combinations with the same concentrated focus on unison. The synchronicity of legs swishing and striking is immensely satisfying to watch.

In contrast to the subtlety of the grand plié, is the spectacle of six dancers performing fouettés en pointe together. Fouettés, one of ballet’s most demanding steps, are even harder to perform in a group. There’s no room for individual rhythm, meaning dancers must adjust their own technique to achieve unity. The technical prowess necessary to achieve this is undeniable, deserving equal appreciation to the thrilling 32 fouetté coda from classics like Don Quixote and Swan Lake.

This section involves dancers darting across the stage in a thrilling series of grand jetes, guided solely by an ‘X’ of light illuminating the stage. With no margin for error in timing and spacing, the dancers display impeccable rhythm and speed. The darkness of this scene builds anticipation, before suddenly revealing the bright, crisp finale.

Arguably one of the most iconic parts of the score, and certainly one of the most challenging, the grand allegro section features a male soloist bursting across the stage, clicking his fingers and churning through a series of cabrioles, pirouettes and double tours. The music, grand and powerful, floods every corner of the theatre. Quietly framed by the poised corps de ballet, this solo exemplifies the power and bravado of the grand allegro.