2024 Summer Ballet Fun for Crosby

Hello, lovelies! It’s Emma here, and oh my goodness, the summer ballet season is officially upon us! I can already feel the warm breeze and sunshine whispering promises of ballets under the stars, barefoot pirouettes on the beach, and of course, countless opportunities to show off our fabulous tutus (and, let's be real, maybe a few fabulous new pairs of pink shoes!).

Crosby, you’re a little slice of ballet heaven, and summer just takes everything up a notch. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a newbie just discovering the magic of ballet, this year’s summer season has something for everyone. Get your pink on, grab your besties, and let’s dive into a tutu-licious summer!

Let's start with the classics! Summer’s a wonderful time to rediscover the ballets that have captivated audiences for centuries. You'll find classic productions running through the whole season at The Crosby Arts Centre – they’ve even got some family-friendly workshops where little ones can get their first taste of ballet.

But hold on, classic doesn't have to mean stuffy! There's an exciting new trend towards "Ballet Reimagined" productions. These are classic ballets with modern twists - think fresh choreography, bold costumes, and sometimes even a funky soundtrack. You might find some Swan Lake productions with electrifying modern music or a Giselle with costumes inspired by the latest trends. Keep an eye on the Crosby Theatre website for the latest listings - you might just be surprised at what you find!

Now, let’s get contemporary! Summer's the perfect season to experiment with different styles of dance. There are drop-in contemporary workshops happening across Crosby all summer. This is your chance to try things like lyrical jazz, modern, or even some super funky hip hop. Just imagine those tutus flying across the floor!

For the adventurous dancers: There’s a growing trend in "Ballet Fusion," blending traditional ballet with other genres like flamenco, African dance, or even Bollywood. You’ll find a few workshops on offer in Crosby for this – perfect for stepping out of your comfort zone!

Let’s face it, we’re not all dancers, but that doesn't mean we can’t get our ballet fix this summer.

Here’s my hot list of summer ballet adventures, guaranteed to leave you feeling graceful and inspired:

• Open Air Performances: Grab a blanket, some strawberries, and your fanciest pink dress (because, let's be honest, who doesn't love a picnic with a side of ballet under the stars?). Crosby’s Victoria Park hosts a number of open air ballets, everything from Sleeping Beauty to contemporary dance showcases.
• Dance Workshops: Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a professional! Summer’s the time for beginner’s ballet classes, themed workshops like "Tutus and Cocktails" (a personal favourite!), and fun workshops focused on character work or improvisation. Crosby’s Community Dance Studio is a brilliant resource for all things ballet – even a crash course in tutu-tying, if you're feeling adventurous!
• Ballet Film Night: Who needs Netflix when you have beautiful ballerinas on screen? Crosby’s Rex Cinema runs monthly screenings of classic ballet films, often with themed pre-show cocktails. Just be warned, some scenes are quite beautiful - I have been known to shed a few tears at a good ballet film!

Okay, the real reason why we love summer ballet, right? We can finally show off those fabulous tutus! Here’s my style guide for all the dancers and tutu lovers:

• Go classic with tulle: Tutus are synonymous with summer ballet. For the traditional look, you can’t go wrong with a beautiful tulle tutu.
• Embroidered embellishment: This year, it’s all about intricate embroidery. Think flower designs, whimsical creatures, and intricate geometric patterns – add a little touch of sparkle with tiny diamante!
• Pop of Colour: Let’s bring those summer vibes to the forefront! Pair your favourite pastel tulle tutu with a vibrantly coloured ballet top, a fun scarf, or some colorful ribbons.

• Mix it up with different silhouettes: Want to break free from the traditional tutu shape? Try a longer, mermaid-style skirt or an A-line tutu, both super elegant and on-trend!

  It’s not all about the tutu: The right shoes and accessories can elevate your whole summer ballet look!

• Ballet slippers: Summer calls for airy ballet slippers. Look for breathable fabrics, stylish colourways, and cute ribbon combinations. I've found some stunning pairs in vibrant blues and greens that pop beautifully against summer’s sunshine.

• Summer Hair: Don't be afraid to have a little fun with your summer hairstyles. Experiment with sleek braids, elegant updos, or a fun ballet bun.

Crosby’s ballet scene is vibrant all year round, but it’s summer that really brings it alive. You’ll find countless classes, workshops, and events, from high-end productions to open-air performances. The real beauty, though, lies in the community spirit. Whether you're taking a beginners’ ballet class or sharing a picnic blanket at an outdoor performance, you'll be welcomed into a world of laughter, joy, and, of course, tutus.

I know it can feel a little daunting jumping into a new hobby, but I can promise you, summer ballet in Crosby is one giant love-in.

So, don’t just read about it, lovelies, get involved! Take a class, see a show, and most importantly, let your inner tutu-lover shine!