Fun Friday Prop

Fun Friday Prop

           

In a previous blog, I mentioned how an accurate model skeleton is useful in demonstrating the ball-and-socket joint and its relationship to turn-out (Secret #3f).  But such a model can go way beyond that.  It is helpful for dancers to see how the bones align and how this skeletal structure either allows, or limits the movement required in classical ballet.

For example, the pelvis is a very large bone, and wherever it goes, the dancer tends to go.  Also in a previous blog, I discussed “no tipping, tucking, or tilting” of the pelvis.  This is true except in high attitude or arabesque positions, due to the limitations of the bone structure and the pelvis.  This is easily observed using a good model skeleton.

A model also helps students see that their spine begins not at their shoulder line, but at the base of their skull.  Just another reason why dancers wear their hair up off their neck – so any deviation in the spinal alignment can be seen.

So grab a small model skeleton.  I call mine Seymour (because you can “see more” bones).

From the Big Blue Book of Ballet Secrets:

Secret #20b:  

“A model skeleton is useful for illustrating how the body works.”

                Link of the Day:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhzsfycvdMQ

Quote of the Day:

“Today was good.  Today was fun.  Tomorrow is another one.”

-Dr. Seuss

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