2024 Summer Ballet Fun for Canberra

Hello, gorgeous ballet bunnies! Emma here, and summer is officially in full swing! The weather is hot, the sunshine is beaming, and, best of all, it's tutu season! That's right, my fellow dance enthusiasts, Canberra's summer ballet scene is about to explode with creativity, passion, and all the glitter we can handle. Let's dive into this vibrant, sparkling season together, shall we?

Firstly, let's talk about the dance! There's something truly magical about watching graceful dancers twirl and leap under the summer sky. Canberra is buzzing with dance performances all summer long, ranging from traditional classics like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, to innovative contemporary pieces that push the boundaries of storytelling.

Let's get a bit fancy with those traditional classics, shall we?

• The Canberra Dance Theatre is renowned for its spectacular production of "Swan Lake" every summer. Imagine the drama! Imagine the graceful swan moves! Imagine all the beautiful costumes - I’m dying to see the swan costumes for this season!

• The National Capital Ballet Company presents an enchanting "The Nutcracker" each Christmas season. Honestly, I don’t think anything beats a Christmas season ballet - the lights, the music, the sheer joy is incredible!

These traditional ballets are perfect for a night out with the family. Just be warned, you might find yourself tapping your toes along to the beautiful music. It’s hard not to be swayed by the incredible ballet technique on show.

But let's not forget the exciting, new wave of contemporary ballet!

• The "Summer Dance Festival" is always a blast. You'll find everything from quirky contemporary performances, street dance battles, and a lot of up and coming ballet talent from the region! Be sure to check out the programme for the season. It changes yearly, and you can often grab tickets for bargain prices for the opening night, to support this fantastic, non-profit dance organisation.

• Keep an eye out for special "Dance under the Stars" performances at local parks. I am really looking forward to these. Picnics, sparkling wine, beautiful dancing - is there a more magical night to be had?

Here are some top tips for booking those ballet tickets!

• Be quick - the most popular performances tend to sell out super fast.
• Look out for student and family discounts! The price of tickets can add up, and everyone needs a bit of a bargain now and then!
• Consider supporting your local dance companies and groups by volunteering your time or by joining them for a workshop!

Okay, so let's face it - we can't all be professionals. But, you know, every little bit of practice helps to maintain those flexible bodies, and learn some fab moves. Right?! So if you're itching to unleash your inner ballerina, Canberra has got you covered with a whole bunch of classes and workshops for everyone.

The best thing? There's so much variety for you to enjoy!

• Ballet Basics: Perfect for absolute beginners or those looking to refresh their skills. You’ll find classes at dance studios across the city!

• Contemporary Dance: This exciting style of dance combines ballet technique with contemporary movement, allowing for expressive freedom and lots of interesting expression!

• Jazz Dance: If you love disco, you'll love jazz. Get your groove on with some fabulous music and plenty of sharp movements and high energy, that will help you feel cool, relaxed, and energized!

• Tap Dancing: Think fast feet, upbeat music, and loads of fun! These are always a great way to exercise your body and mind, and just tap out all your stress!

• Dance fitness: These classes offer a fun, cardio-driven workout that incorporates dance moves. A fun way to sweat out the stress and tone up!

I can't tell you how much I love finding hidden dance studios. You know, those places that you’d only discover if you’ve lived in Canberra forever.

The internet is always a great starting point! Type in "dance classes Canberra" and you’ll be surprised at the amazing array of dance classes available. You could even consider "adult beginner classes" if you've always wanted to try ballet, and have no experience. Don’t be afraid - there’s always someone new to the group! Just like when I first started dance!

Now, no summer ballet fun is complete without some seriously fabulous attire, right? And when it comes to style, tutus reign supreme! From the traditional tulle designs to modern, reinterpreted interpretations of the classic silhouette, there's a tutu for every style. Let’s explore some of my favourite picks for the perfect tutu look this season:

Here's a rundown of all my favourite summer tutu looks:

Classically Chic: Embrace the classic ballet vibe with a white tulle tutu in a timeless and graceful style. The full skirt creates that iconic, graceful shape - perfect for dancing! For an added touch, pair your tutu with a silk camisole top in a pastel shade like pink, or with a sheer black top - always sophisticated and classic!

Pink Passion: Pink is my favourite colour and it’s just perfect for a summer day or night out. A bright pink tutu brings sunshine to the look. To complete the outfit, choose a black crop top and a statement pair of pink heels - guaranteed to turn heads! Remember, there's nothing better than rocking a pink look, because it radiates confidence!

Bohemian Rhapsody: Go for a more relaxed look with a flowy, soft, layered, pastel tulle tutu that just skims your skin! This style is effortless and chic, which allows for those more relaxed looks! A flowing boho top, with a hint of embroidery or frills would be a fabulous match! And, don't forget your sandals or wedges - they make this whole ensemble look even more chic!

Festival Fun: Are you going to a dance event or music festival? Try a colourful tutu. This one is for bold statement lovers! Bright blues, oranges, pinks - whatever colour scheme you like! Throw in a pair of platform heels, and a metallic body suit or bralette. The idea is to create a vibrant, daring statement and, in the words of Madonna, "let your light shine."

Tutu Top: If you don't want to go full-on tutu, how about a gorgeous top or a sparkly sequin-trimmed tutu skirt! This is perfect for pairing with jeans or shorts for a playful and trendy day look.

Whatever you choose, always make sure you accessorise! A few sparkly clips in your hair or a headband, statement jewellery and colourful nail polish, will just finish your look beautifully! Remember, if you are dancing, don't forget your hair ties for those high ponytails, and that great makeup that can be enjoyed during the day as well as during the evening.

Don’t be shy - head out there and embrace the ballet buzz of the city! Check out workshops, explore local studios, catch performances, dress up in those fab tutu outfits - make it your own! Summer in Canberra, with ballet, is an explosion of fun and, for me, the greatest feeling!