Hello, darling dance lovers! It's Emma here, back with a brand new blog post – and let me tell you, I'm positively bursting with excitement! Summer is finally here, and for me, that means one thing: ballet season! The air is filled with the joyous music of Tchaikovsky and the swish of tulle, and I can't wait to soak it all in.
This year, I'm focusing my attention on my own beautiful corner of Somerset - Frome, with its cobbled streets and vibrant arts scene, is the perfect place to experience the joy of ballet in all its glorious forms. From traditional classes to exhilarating outdoor performances, there's something for every budding ballerina this summer.
Get Your Tutu On!
The first step to summer ballet fun? Embrace the tulle, darling! The world's your oyster when it comes to tutus. We're not talking stiff, classic tutus here. No, no, we're all about fun, flair, and fierce tutus! Think vibrant colours, whimsical prints, and dazzling embellishments. Pink, of course, is my go-to, but feel free to get creative with purple, blue, green - let your imagination run wild!
For the ultimate summer ballet look, pair your chosen tutu with a chic crop top, a floaty, boho skirt (a layered maxi skirt looks fab!), or even a trusty denim jacket for cooler evenings. And remember, don't forget those essential ballet accessories:
- Dance Bag: This is not just a practical necessity, darling! A sparkly dance bag, emblazoned with ballet-themed motifs, can be your best friend this season. Think feathers, sequins, or even a personalised "Ballet Babe" tag!
- Dance Shoes: Comfortable, flexible, and supportive are the key ingredients to successful dancing, so invest in quality dance shoes, be it pointe shoes, jazz shoes, or simple ballet pumps. Remember, every step deserves a comfortable foundation!
- Ballet Bun: We all know the struggle, darling. Summer can turn your perfect ballerina bun into a frizzy nightmare. Arm yourself with strong hair gel, bobby pins galore, and a cute hair tie with a ballet twist! And don't be afraid to accessorise with a beautiful hairpiece - flowers, ribbon, or even a miniature ballet shoe are just the thing to add that extra touch of elegance!
Dance Your Way Through Summer
Now, on to the exciting stuff: what can we do in Frome this summer to make our hearts dance?
1. Open Air Ballet at Frome Town Hall:
Imagine this: a warm summer evening, the moon shimmering over Frome's historic Town Hall, and the beautiful sounds of classical music floating in the air. That's exactly what you can experience at the Frome Open Air Ballet Festival. From Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake to more contemporary ballets with stunning choreographies, you'll be swept away by the beauty of ballet under the stars.
This event draws thousands every year, creating an atmosphere that's electric with excitement. I even remember attending one myself with a gorgeous neon pink tutu! The best part? There's plenty of room to spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy some delicious snacks while witnessing this magnificent spectacle. It's an evening that truly blends classic beauty with Frome's own vibrant character, and it’s a highlight of the season.
2. Summer Classes for Everyone:
Whether you're a seasoned professional or a complete newbie, summer offers the perfect opportunity to hone your skills. Frome has several wonderful ballet schools and studios ready to welcome you.
Here are a few recommendations:
Frome Dance Studio: Offering classes in both classical and contemporary styles, this studio caters to all ages and levels. Whether you're keen to brush up on your basics or want to try something new like lyrical ballet, Frome Dance Studio is a friendly and welcoming environment for budding dancers of all skill levels.
Somerset School of Dance: This renowned ballet school in Frome offers intensive training and comprehensive curriculum covering ballet techniques. This is ideal for students seeking advanced training or pursuing dance professionally. Their instructors are experienced and passionate, providing students with personalized guidance and an exceptional learning experience.
Frome Arts Collective: This hub of creativity is not only home to diverse artistic events but also runs exciting summer ballet workshops and drop-in classes. Explore the world of creative dance and movement, embracing freedom of expression with a fun and energetic approach to movement.
Don't be shy - even if you've never stepped into a ballet studio, these studios welcome new faces with open arms. Many offer taster sessions or trial classes to get you started. So grab a friend, dust off your dance shoes, and step into a world of elegance and grace.
3. Go Beyond the Barre: Ballet-Inspired Fitness:
Want to get your body moving and feel those ballet-inspired vibes? Frome's bustling fitness scene offers a ton of options to combine fitness and ballet. Try a ballet-inspired workout that blends graceful movements with high-intensity cardio. These classes are designed to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance coordination – all while having a great time!
Some local studios also offer barre classes. These focused sessions concentrate on lower body strengthening and toning, creating a defined silhouette and building core strength. You'll definitely feel those burn but with rewarding results.
4. Take Inspiration From The Stage:
We're not all professional dancers, but that doesn't mean we can't get our fill of ballet magic! Frome offers several chances to witness professional performances:
Frome Festival: A grand celebration of art and culture held annually, the Frome Festival showcases performances from across genres, with occasional ballet features. Keep an eye on the festival programme for upcoming dance performances and workshops, where you can learn new styles or watch seasoned dancers perform incredible choreography.
Frome Independent: This bi-monthly market transforms the town with an eclectic mix of art, fashion, and food. It often hosts live entertainment, sometimes including dance acts that showcase a range of styles from contemporary to classical. Don't miss these impromptu opportunities to witness the raw beauty of movement on display.
Local Theatre Companies: Look out for local theatre groups putting on productions involving dance or even ballets, both traditional and contemporary. These performances often involve young local talent, providing opportunities to discover fresh perspectives on this enchanting art form.
A Few More Tips to Make Your Summer Ballet-tastic!
- Get Sociable! Connect with fellow dance enthusiasts by joining a dance group, participating in local dance events, or starting a ballet club! It's a wonderful way to share your passion, learn new routines, and find friends who share your love for the graceful art.
- Fuel Your Passion! Indulge in ballet-themed treats like a Ballet Latte, a graceful swirl of a dessert (try a rose petal-shaped macaron!), or even a Pink Lemonade cocktail – anything that sets the stage for a ballerina-approved celebration!
- Embrace the Ballet Spirit: From the delicate details in your hair bun to the swish of your skirt as you walk down the street, let your personality shine. Remember, darling, a true ballerina exudes grace, confidence, and joy, so enjoy every moment of your ballet journey this summer!
So, grab your trusty tutu, darling, and let's make this summer in Frome the most spectacular ballet season yet! I'm counting down the days, and I can't wait to dance my way through the sunshine with you. Remember, #tutusummer #tutuseason #summerballet!
