Adult Knaiseff Floor Barre- Beginner to Intermediate

About the Class

KNAISEFF (KNYAZEV) FLOOR BARRE The Boris Knaiseff Floor Barre technique sculpts and refines the body; it is a holistic approach to connect and center the mind, body, and breath for dance. And it is well suited for those with injuries that would prevent participating in a regular class. The exercise sequences are simple and easy to follow, yet thorough. No special equipment is needed, not even a yoga mat. Do wear socks or ballet shoes to allow for sliding the feet on the floor. Tights, yoga pants, or other comfortable attire is also helpful to protect the skin and allow for easier sliding on the floor, as well as having the back covered. A tee shirt works well. Do bring a towel to fold and place under the pelvis when lying face down. This technique is performed sitting or lying on the floor. It is the ideal position for establishing dynamic alignment. It is especially designed for ballet technique, but all dancers derive benefit from the exercises! Most of the exercises are designed to be performed while lying on the back, and then repeated face down. KNAISEFF BIO: Knaiseff studied at the St. Petersburg Theater School, and began teaching in Paris in 1924. He was the first person to include en dedans movements as part of the training. One of his followers, Stella Voskovetskaya, a Vaganova Academy graduate, incorporated many elements of the Knaiseff floor barre directly into the Vaganova system. This technique is unique and we are so excited to have it as part of the Adult program!