2024 Summer Ballet Fun for Southampton

Hello my lovely dancers! Emma here, ready to dive into the vibrant world of summer ballet in our gorgeous Southampton! The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and the air is buzzing with the joy of #tutusummer. So grab your best pink tutu, a pair of sparkling pointe shoes, and get ready to twirl your way through a summer packed with ballet fun! 🎉

Summer is the perfect time to embrace the playful and experimental side of ballet. Here are some of the exciting trends to look out for:

1. Neoclassical Ballet: Where Elegance Meets Exuberance

The graceful lines and flowing movements of neoclassical ballet are the perfect match for a sunny afternoon. Expect to see choreography inspired by nature, light and flowing fabrics, and a dash of contemporary movement that adds an element of dynamism and fun.

2. Ballet Fusion: A World of Styles and Sounds

Summer ballet isn't afraid to blend genres. Look out for pieces that merge ballet with other dance forms like contemporary, jazz, or even hip-hop, bringing a fresh perspective to traditional movements. Imagine graceful arabesques meeting powerful jumps in a single stunning sequence – it’s a beautiful mix!

3. Ballet On The Beach: Sand Between Your Toes

For an extra dose of summertime magic, seek out ballet performances on the beach. The sand and sea air add a whimsical feel, and a backdrop of sunset is a truly spectacular sight. Picture dancing to the rhythm of the waves, a truly unique experience.

4. Outdoor Ballet Under The Stars:

Southampton comes alive in the summer with outdoor theatre productions. So don't miss the chance to watch a classic ballet under the glittering sky. Imagine the starlit sky twinkling overhead as the story unfolds – pure romance!

Southampton’s vibrant artistic community has something to offer dancers of all levels, so get creative and try something new this summer! Here's what you should add to your summer ballet bucket list:

1. Summer Ballet Workshops and Classes:

Take your technique to the next level, try a new genre, or brush up on your barre skills with summer-themed workshops and classes. From beginner-friendly workshops to advanced masterclasses, there's something for everyone! Embrace the summer sun, maybe even an outdoor barre class on the beach!

2. Ballet & The Great Outdoors:

It's time to embrace the natural world and use it to enhance your dance. Learn the joy of movement within a beautiful natural setting. Imagine exploring a meadow or park while working on your plies and pirouettes – a delightful fusion of ballet and nature.

3. Dress Like a Fairy:

Summer is a perfect excuse to ditch the boring black tights and embrace your inner fairy! Embrace soft, flowy fabrics, whimsical accessories, and tutus in bold and vibrant colours! It's the perfect time to be creative and find a unique and beautiful ballet style that reflects your own personality!

Every summer ballet season deserves an epic soundtrack, and I'm definitely channeling disco vibes! Think bright, sparkling melodies, dynamic rhythms, and upbeat vibes – the perfect energy to power your dance! Here are some tracks to add to your playlist:

• "Stayin' Alive" by the Bee Gees
• "Dancing Queen" by ABBA
• "Le Freak" by Chic
• "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor
• "September" by Earth, Wind & Fire
• "Disco Inferno" by The Trammps

Get ready for an electrifying soundtrack as you dance!

Here are a few highlights in the area that every aspiring ballet enthusiast shouldn’t miss:

• Southampton Dance Academy is a local haven for dancers of all levels and styles. They offer workshops and classes with renowned instructors, ensuring you get the best training possible! Keep an eye out for their Summer Ballet Showcase – an incredible celebration of the talents of local dancers!

• The Mayflower Theatre: This incredible venue offers a diverse array of theatrical performances. Be on the lookout for visiting ballet companies. They usually bring their amazing talent and incredible shows during the summer months. It's an experience you shouldn't miss!

• The New Forest : Imagine a magical outdoor ballet set against the backdrop of ancient forests and rolling hills – it’s a dancer’s paradise! There are many stunning locations for ballet-inspired photography sessions and workshops, so prepare for some Instagram-worthy moments.

Summer Ballet Essentials:

Here's a checklist to make sure your summer ballet experience is perfect:

1. Dance Shoes and Accessories: Don’t forget those beautiful pointe shoes, jazz shoes, and ballet flats! If you’re heading to the beach, think about waterproof shoes or flip-flops for those moments you want to switch off the dance.

2. Stylish Balletwear: Pack a mix of colourful and breathable outfits – think fun leggings, sporty crop tops, or flowing ballet skirts. For the beach, consider flowy maxi dresses for effortless chic.

3. Gorgeous Tutus: The highlight of the season – your ultimate summer tutu. Go bold with pink, choose vibrant colours that complement the summer vibe!

4. Plenty of Sunscreen: Let’s make sure we’re protecting ourselves. Sun safe and dance safe is the name of the game!

5. Lots of Hydration: Don't forget to stay hydrated with plenty of water – ballet requires a lot of energy and staying hydrated is essential!

Southampton is an incredibly welcoming ballet community, so don't be shy, join in and share your passion for ballet!

Enjoy this wonderful summer season, keep the pink tutus and disco dreams flowing, and let’s make this summer the most magical and memorable yet! #tutusummer #tutuseason #summerballet