Hey everyone, it's Emma here! Summer's finally arrived, and you know what that means - time for tutu season! 💖 I can already feel the excitement in the air, the sunshine on my skin, and the beat of the music just waiting to make me dance. 🎶
This year, Broadstairs is buzzing with so much going on that's perfect for ballet lovers like myself. So, whether you're a seasoned dancer or just dipping your toes into the world of twirling, this guide has everything you need to make your summer a dancefloor dream.
Step One: Find Your Perfect Tutu 👑
Let's be honest, a good tutu is the cornerstone of any summer ballet experience. It's all about finding the right style and making it your own.
The Classic: A traditional tutu is an absolute must-have. Pick a classic, white tulle design that flows beautifully as you twirl. Look for a tutu with multiple layers, and consider one with delicate embellishments like sequins or ribbon accents. Pair it with a sleek bun and you're ready to go!
The Colour Pop: Summer's all about colour! Choose a bold, vibrant tutu in colours like pink, lavender, turquoise, or sunshine yellow. It's a great way to add a playful, energetic vibe to your look. A multicoloured tutu with shimmering, colourful details is super on-trend!
The Statement Piece: Want to really stand out? Consider a tutu that breaks the mould. Go for a long, dramatic design, a ruffled or layered style, or one with bold, architectural shapes. If you’re feeling brave, maybe a colourful patterned tutu, or even one with feather accents is just the thing.
Summer Ballet Fun: Get Moving!
Let’s dive into some summer ballet activities that will get you moving and grooving:
Ballet in the Park: This year, Broadstairs Park will host a series of outdoor ballet classes! It's the perfect way to enjoy the sunshine, soak up some Vitamin D, and learn some basic ballet moves. They offer beginner's classes for absolute beginners, or slightly more advanced classes for those wanting to hone their skills. Be sure to book your space in advance as these classes always fill up quickly.
Ballet by the Beach: There's nothing like the feel of sand between your toes as you dance to the rhythm of the sea! Several studios offer pop-up classes on the beach. You can learn everything from classic ballet steps to beachy, improvisational choreography. Wear light, airy clothes that will keep you cool. Think a crop top and capri leggings or a flowy skirt paired with your chosen tutu. This is the ultimate in 'tutu-tastic' fun!
Summer Dance Festivals: If you're feeling brave, head to the annual Broadstairs Dance Festival. Held every July, it features a week of workshops, performances, and exhibitions showcasing different genres of dance from ballet to contemporary, street, and tap! With masterclasses, shows, and competitions galore, this festival is perfect for dancers of all ages and levels. Plus, there are plenty of vendors offering tutus, shoes, and other dance accessories. It's a brilliant opportunity to expand your knowledge, meet like-minded individuals, and gain valuable experience.
Ballet On-the-Go
Feeling a little lazy, or maybe you're short on time? No problem. Here’s how to get your ballet fix:
Ballet On Demand: With the internet at our fingertips, ballet classes have become readily available! You can find tons of online videos and platforms with step-by-step lessons in every style imaginable. From beginner's introductions to advanced masterclasses, you can learn at your own pace and enjoy a professional-grade ballet experience in the comfort of your own home. Some fantastic tutorials can be found on YouTube or platforms like Ballet Beautiful or The Royal Ballet.
Outdoor Ballet Performances: This summer, several outdoor ballet shows are taking place throughout Broadstairs! This is a fantastic opportunity to soak up the beauty of live dance in a beautiful setting. Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxed evening under the stars with friends and family. Check your local council website or Broadstairs Theatre website for event listings.
Let’s Dance the Disco
And what better way to add a summery touch to your ballet journey than to add some disco vibes!
Ballet Fusion Classes: Who says ballet has to be strictly classical? This summer, discover exciting fusion classes combining ballet elements with other styles like hip hop, jazz, or contemporary. It’s a fantastic way to break away from traditional norms and find a style that feels unique and personal to you. Think high kicks, fluid movements, and maybe even a little shimmy in your tutu - it’s all about letting loose!
Disco Themed Parties: Embrace the disco era with a ballet-themed party. Pick out your best 70's inspired outfits - think flared jeans, glittery tops, and platforms. Dress up a table with a disco ball and use some colourful lighting. Put on your best disco tracks and get ready to groove.
Shopping and Inspiration:
A visit to Broadstairs wouldn't be complete without indulging in a spot of retail therapy!
Dancewear Emporiums: Browse through the stunning selection of tutus and dancewear at the independent dance shops. Find everything from the perfect ballet shoes to leotards, warm-up gear, and even the newest accessories for that perfect look.
Antique Markets and Charity Shops: Delve into the quirky treasures of vintage and antique shops. Look out for antique jewellery that complements your tutu, or vintage posters and ballet-themed prints to decorate your ballet room. You might even score a stunning vintage tutu that can be reinvented with a little DIY touch.
The Power of Ballet
As a ballet dancer and blogger, I’ve realised ballet is so much more than just dancing. It's about finding strength and grace, self-expression and artistry. But above all, it's about finding joy and magic in every step.
This summer, let's embrace the power of ballet! Join me in celebrating the elegance of dance and embracing the pure joy of being ourselves. Let's turn Broadstairs into a tutu-filled paradise this summer!
#tutusummer #tutuseason #summerballet
