Hey beautiful dancers,
Summer's here, and so is the most exciting time of year â Summer Ballet Season! I know, right?! Sunshine, beaches, holidays⌠and most importantly, tutus.
Okay, okay, maybe it's just me. But summer always feels a little more magical with a fluffy tutu and some fabulous dance moves. Iâm Emma, a total ballet addict (you could say obsessedâŚ!) and your girl for all things summer ballet. Today Iâm here to show you how to sprinkle a little bit of ballet magic over your summer in Aldridge.
*So, what are you waiting for? Letâs get this tutu-licious summer started! *
### Where the Magic Happens
First things first, letâs talk studios!
If youâre based in Aldridge or the surrounding area, you have access to some brilliant studios â itâs definitely worth trying out different ones for your classes and getting the low-down from fellow dance lovers!
Hereâs my little tip, do your research before you sign up for your first summer ballet class. It can make a huge difference!
For all my advanced dancers, why not try some summer ballet intensives to boost your technique, learn some amazing new choreography, and make some new dance besties!
*Hereâs a list of places in and around Aldridge you can check out to get started! *
Aldridge Ballet Centre: This place has a whole vibe about it, if youâre going to sign up for summer classes itâs got to be Aldridge Ballet Centre. A true local gem â loads of great instructors and lots of flexibility on classes, including options for different levels.
Aldridge Community Centre: This amazing venue also houses classes including some fantastic ballet sessions in the summer. Look up their timetable on their website. They have some beginner friendly classes, too. Itâs perfect for if you are feeling a little shy or starting out.
- Summer in the Park: This sounds dreamy right?! Keep your eyes peeled for announcements on "Summer in the Park" events in Aldridge, as you might find there are ballet classes or workshops you can sign up for!
Aldridge Performing Arts School: This is perfect for the young ones wanting to get into dance. They are known to host amazing summer camps and workshops!
Want a bit of extra inspiration? Look out for...
West Midlands Ballet classes: A short trip to Birmingham will give you access to classes for all ages and levels with West Midlands Ballet, a world-renowned company, that runs classes in and around the city, with an occasional trip to Aldridge, for their workshops and shows.
- Birmingham Royal Ballet workshops: While these are likely in Birmingham itself, they can sometimes pop up in nearby locations, too. Keep your eyes peeled!
Itâs summertime â letâs shake up our ballet routine a little! Time for those sunshine, fresh-air dance adventuresâŚ
Ballet Under the Stars
How dreamy does that sound?! Soaking up those rays, breathing in the fresh air, and letting loose with some graceful ballet moves under the starlight⌠Perfection! I totally recommend joining a local park or garden session for some magical outdoor ballet â perfect for making new friends and boosting your skills. You know what they say, the sun makes everything brighter and that even goes for ballet!
Outdoor Workshops
Who doesnât love a good picnic and a ballet class? Outdoor ballet workshops are making their way to the West Midlands! Look out for park-based ballet sessions, perhaps on a gorgeous summer afternoon or maybe as the sun sets. It's such a fabulous way to combine fun, sunshine, and dance. Theyâre the best way to make your summer workouts a bit more magical, and they offer a great introduction to different ballet styles and forms. It's your chance to unleash your inner ballerina, connect with nature, and dance under the open sky.
*Street Ballet (A Touch of Street Style for My Ballet Lovers) *
For those wanting to get into street ballet, take some classes in nearby Birmingham to get your groove on! The fusion of street and ballet will get your heart pumping, make your moves extra sharp, and help you own that stage, or rather the street!
** Ballet Retreats & Workshops
A Bit More on Workshops and Retreats
The great thing about these workshops, if you book far enough in advance, is that you get to travel to a destination, or book into a fabulous local hotel or holiday retreat!
- This makes it a mini dance holiday! Howâs that for adding an extra touch of âmagicalâ to your summer? You can explore some stunning dance venues, enjoy new experiences, and maybe even pick up some new dance styles. And I have to say it; this also means fabulous dance outfits!
Now, imagine this...
A peaceful afternoon filled with ballet classes in a charming manor house in the heart of the Cotswolds! Who wouldnât want to book into this? Youâre surrounded by amazing architecture, you can try out new dance styles and classes⌠the perfect blend of tranquility, beauty, and ballet! Itâs seriously worth looking into! You may need to go further afield for a retreat that truly lives up to this dreamy scenario.
**Ballet Inspiration: Itâs Everywhere!
The most important tip of all is to find ballet inspiration where you least expect it. Summer is the perfect time to:
Seek Out Outdoor Dance Performances: Summer is festival season â be on the lookout for opportunities to catch some amazing outdoor ballet performances â even something as simple as an impromptu performance in your local park!
Be On the Lookout For Free Ballet Events and Pop-up Shows: Look out for any special ballet workshops, classes, and even free pop-up performances â there are plenty out there waiting to be discovered!
Summer's a great time to be a ballet dancer. So letâs add a little magic to our dance looks!
Itâs All About Pink!
Oh my god, how could we not talk about pink in our summer outfits? If thereâs one thing to remember this season, pink is all the rage in summer. Whether it's a light pink ballet wrap, or something more intense, this shade has become the ultimate Summer Ballet Must-Have!
**Your Ultimate Ballet Look:
The Dance Outfit:**
For dance classes, keep it comfortable and practical. Ballet outfits will always work, from gorgeous leotards and wrap skirts to more relaxed athletic clothing with an extra pop of color to stand out from the crowd. You can always look for funky dance tops or fun shorts and make them your signature dance looks!
Get Creative With Summer Style:
*Make a splash in neon pink leggings and ballet tops! This vibrant and electric shade of pink is not only a top fashion trend but it also shines super bright on the dance floor and out and about during the summer months.
- I love this bold coral colour to stand out, because the sun really reflects the tones, and they look amazing with a sleek pink leotard!
- Embrace bright pinks, peaches, and citrusy yellows. Mix and match, or keep your look toned down, and always accessorise! I adore matching up my outfits with some chunky jewelry in the shades of the season!
*Top Dance Gear: *
- I love this bold coral colour to stand out, because the sun really reflects the tones, and they look amazing with a sleek pink leotard!
Summertime is a bit different â it's not so much about getting super warm but staying comfortable when you are getting those super-heated moves on!
- For super sweaty days: a good quality cooling sports bra can really save your day â and I swear by a ballet bun net! You might also love having a comfy, but supportive, hair band for when your hair starts to slip and fall into your face!
- Keeping it classy: You canât go wrong with a nice ballet wrap skirt.
- For all those lovely, sunny days: a great pair of comfy ballet socks will do the trick. My little tip is to add a bit of an edge to your summer looks with a fashionable dance belt.
* Summer Dance Styling:*
- The Little Extras:* Remember the essential things you should always pack when you head out for summer ballet sessions. If itâs a day class, your stylish tote bag will keep your stuff organized, and keep that extra pair of shoes and a refreshing drink. You can also pick up a fancy dance hair net and those comfy socks that we love!
Don't Forget Your Bag: When heading out to the summer class you may want to include some stylish sunglasses, an exciting sun hat , or even some cool dance gloves! You can really give your summer looks an exciting makeover with an array of dance accessories!
The Music
Summer Ballet Vibes!
Letâs get down to some music! *Here's whatâs keeping me dancing this summer⌠**
*1. Upbeat Classics: * * A bit of the old-school magic! Think "Waltz of the Flowers" or "Swan Lake." * This will bring a touch of summer joy.
*2. Summery Synth: *
- I'm talking about a mix of classic and contemporary disco, like Donna Summer!
- Nothing gets the groove going like some infectious disco vibes!
- Plus, it adds a splash of summertime to your dance experience!
- Nothing gets the groove going like some infectious disco vibes!
*3. Funk It Up! *
- For those fun, summery, energetic moves â get down with some disco-funk like Michael Jacksonâs âBillie Jean!â
This keeps your ballet classes lively and full of energy!
*4. Relaxing Rhythms: *
This oneâs perfect for a day of stretching, or simply to ease into your warm-up. A mix of slow beats, ambient electronica, or calming acoustic sounds. It can also be fun to see what dancers do in their class warm-up when they hear some different music choices.
*To Keep the Summer Vibes Going.. *
I think you should follow me for all the latest summer fashion trends!
- Head over to my blog for regular posts and to get your summer wardrobe inspired.
