2024 Summer Ballet Fun for Lafordon

Hey beautiful dancers! It's Emma here, back with another blog post and just bursting with excitement for summer – especially the glorious return of the ballet season! The air is warm, the sun is shining (well, most days!), and all I can think about is twirling in my favourite tutu, feeling the wind in my hair and the rhythm in my feet. Let’s face it, summer ballet is the best ballet!

Forget those chilly winter evenings spent at the theatre. Now's the time for ballets in the park, outdoors classes under the sunshine, and all the joy and magic that summer ballet brings!

Lafordon, you guys are SO lucky to have some truly fantastic ballet experiences happening this season. So let's get this summer ballet party started, shall we?

Where To Twirl This Summer:

This year, Lafordon is blooming with some pretty special ballet experiences. Here’s the scoop on a few of my faves:

• The Ballet by the Lake at Lakeside Park - If you’re a Lafordon resident, you already know what a beautiful spot Lakeside Park is. And if you haven’t been before, you’re missing out! This year they’re hosting an open-air performance of the magical Sleeping Beauty under the stars, perfect for those of us who love to let our inner princess shine. The perfect backdrop of the lake and shimmering fairy lights is the ideal setting for some seriously Instagrammable summer ballet moments!
• The "Ballet on the Beach" Extravaganza - Grab your beach towel and get ready for some fun in the sun. Lafordon's "Ballet on the Beach" extravaganza features a brilliant line-up of professional dancers, plus loads of activities for kids and grown-ups alike! They’ll be bringing ballet straight to the sand, so think beach vibes, fun routines, and loads of laughs. Plus, there’s nothing quite like dancing on the beach in a flowing tulle skirt and listening to the waves crashing in the background, right?
• Ballet Under the Stars at the Lafordon Gardens – Another highlight, and my absolute fave of the season, is this delightful ballet experience. Get lost in the world of ballet under the canopy of stars in the stunning Lafordon Gardens. Picture this: twinkling fairy lights, enchanting music, and breathtaking performances in the gardens – it’s going to be a seriously magical experience, so get ready for a night to remember.
• Lafordon Ballet School's Summer Workshops - Don’t forget the youngsters! The local ballet school is running a whole bunch of fabulous workshops for all levels. From beginners who’ve always dreamed of getting into ballet to seasoned dancers who just love to improve their skills, there’s a workshop for everyone! The great thing about these workshops is that they really focus on having fun. Imagine learning new moves and discovering new ways to move your body, all whilst making friends and experiencing the magic of summer ballet – what’s not to love!

Summer Ballet Must-Haves:

Right, so you’re ready to take your ballet adventures to the next level, but what to pack? Let’s talk about all things fabulous, shall we?

The Tutu of the Season:

Girl, summer screams tutus! This is your chance to wear your absolute fave tutus with absolutely no shame. For this summer, think bright colours, sparkly details, and flowing tulle, like those incredible pastel tutus from [local boutique name] – they’re literally made for dancing under the sun.

Let’s Get Retro:

I’m talking disco-inspired ballet wear - yes, disco is back in a BIG way, and what’s more summery and energetic than dancing like it’s 1977? Channel your inner Donna Summer with sleek, brightly coloured leotards paired with leg warmers (pink, naturally) – there’s something effortlessly cool about them!

Think Pink:

Yes, of course, pink! It’s simply the best colour for summertime, isn’t it? Look out for delicate, feminine shades like pale blush or a fiery pink that's sure to make you stand out! Don’t forget your hair – the perfect shade of pink is all the rage this summer. And think about that gorgeous rose gold jewellery for some added shimmer.

Summer Essentials:

Don’t forget your essentials: * A lightweight scarf or headband for keeping hair out of your face * A comfy ballet bag (maybe even one with a gorgeous pink ribbon) * A bottle of water to stay hydrated
* And of course, a cute pair of ballet flats to change into after all that twirling!

What To Expect in Summer Ballet:

So, what are we actually dancing to? Get ready for a whirlwind of fun, dynamic choreography, and music that’s bound to get you moving! Here’s what we can expect from this season’s hottest performances:

• Summer Ballet Fusion: Imagine the excitement of classic ballets mixed with a whole lot of modern, high-energy moves. It’s all about the vibrancy of summer and exploring new styles that take inspiration from pop music and contemporary dance.
• Ballet Meets Disco: Oh yeah, you knew this was coming! Disco rhythms and that dazzling flair are hitting the ballet stage this summer, and let me tell you, it's all the joy you could ever want! So put on your most glamorous outfits and be prepared to boogie!
• Ballet With A Twist: Expect ballets that don’t take themselves too seriously, ones full of surprises. Think whimsical stories, colourful costumes, and, of course, that signature summer energy.

Taking Your Ballet Skills To The Next Level:

Don’t let the fun of summer distract you from improving your ballet skills. You don't have to be a professional to become a graceful dancer. Remember, practice makes perfect!

Get Back to the Basics:

Summer is the perfect time to strengthen your basic ballet techniques – think beautiful turnout, elegant footwork, and flawless posture. * Don’t be afraid to re-visit those basic steps. * Practice those classic barre exercises – they really will make a difference. * Find an online video class – so many wonderful teachers are making free and accessible classes!

Experiment With Different Styles:

It's also the perfect time to step outside your comfort zone! Embrace different styles of ballet, such as contemporary dance, which will push you to think outside the box and discover a whole new realm of movement! * Join a contemporary dance class. * Check out online resources, or grab a DVD.

Get Creative:

The best way to really unleash your love of ballet this summer is to get creative! Let’s create a “ballet summer playlist,” inspired by all the fab energy of the summer season – a perfect playlist for your at-home ballet practice! I’m thinking everything from upbeat disco tunes to classic ballets scored with a more modern, summery feel. * Think "summer" when choosing your tunes – feel the warm sunshine, hear the crashing waves, and envision your graceful movements.

Sharing Your Love for Summer Ballet:

Now, you have your amazing tutu outfit ready to go and you’re fully immersed in those dance moves! It’s time to share your summer ballet magic with the world, baby! * Instagram, Instagram, Instagram! Post gorgeous photos in your fabulous ballet attire at your summer classes. Tag me @EmmaBallerina – I would LOVE to see you! * Write Your Own Summer Ballet Blog I know, this is a huge call! But what’s the point of experiencing a magical summer season without documenting it, sharing your ballet journey, and spreading your love for dance with everyone? * Invite a friend to a class. Summer ballet is about community and having a good time with like-minded individuals who share your passion.

Let's make summer 2024 a ballet dream! Let the twirls begin!