Welcome to Class 11 with the wonderful Stephanie Petersen! This session focuses on developing a strong, stable foundation through deep muscle activation, allowing dancers to progress toward more powerful and dynamic movements.

 The progression begins with mobilizing the spine in Upper Body Flow and activating the deep rotators in Leg Switches, establishing a flexible yet supported core. Alignment and precision are further developed in Advanced à la Seconde and Back Strength. Strength in the supporting leg and coordination are challenged through Power with Balance, while the class culminates in high-energy work like Grand Temps Levé to build stamina. The session concludes with movements designed to stretch and release the body, ensuring dancers finish feeling long and aligned.

Tips:

Encourage dancers to find "space" in the joints during initial mobilization to prevent a rigid torso during power work.

In Power with Balance, emphasize the stability of the supporting side; the power in the movement must come from a secure base.

Guide students to use their breath as a tool for stability when transitioning from controlled alignment to dynamic sequences.