Hey darlings! Summer is officially here, the sun is shining (at least most days!), and you know what that means… it’s tutu season! 💃 I'm Emma, your resident ballet blogger, and I'm SO excited to be bringing you all the best ways to enjoy this fabulous summer with some ballet-tastic fun!
This year, Whitley Bay is set to become the ultimate destination for dance lovers of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned ballerina or a complete newbie, there's something for everyone. Let's dive in!
Summer Ballet Styles: More than just Swan Lake
Gone are the days where ballet was confined to tutus and tiaras. This summer, let's celebrate the diverse and dynamic world of dance! From classical elegance to contemporary moves, Whitley Bay is a hub for exploring the best of it all.
1. Let's get disco! 🪩 This summer is all about disco ballet, and trust me, it’s seriously fabulous! Forget the strict and structured, let your hair down and move your body to those funky beats. Think flowing lines, funky kicks, and moves inspired by the hottest disco stars! Think Donna Summer and ABBA vibes, and even maybe some glitter! 💖
Where to find it:
- The Whitley Bay Dance Studio is hosting a 'Disco Diva' workshop in August, guaranteed to have you shimmying and shaking! They have a special offer for beginners so even if you’ve never danced before, don’t be afraid to come along! They offer free trial classes as well, so just pop along and give it a whirl!
2. Neoclassical Cool 🌬 If you love a bit of edgy and a bit of classical, Neoclassical ballet is your vibe. It embraces the traditional elements of ballet while bringing in fresh, innovative movement and creative expression. It's ballet but… more expressive, more raw, more exciting!
Where to find it:
- The Northern Ballet School in nearby Tynemouth is a top choice. Their summer performances feature pieces by rising choreographers and you can catch masterclasses featuring professional dancers. Check their website for schedules and events!
3. Street Style meets Swan Lake 🦢 Now, imagine graceful ballet movements combined with the energetic beats and rhythms of urban dance. That’s street ballet, and it's seriously cool! Get ready to rock your moves with styles like hip hop, street jazz, and contemporary influences!
Where to find it:
- The Bayside Dance Academy has introduced some incredible street ballet classes, mixing techniques from different street dance styles with ballet technique. These classes are fun, energetic, and accessible to everyone, even if you’re brand new to ballet. They offer pop-up street ballet sessions in local parks as well – the perfect way to combine fresh air and your love for dancing.
Beyond the Studio: Immerse Yourself in Summer Ballet
Whitley Bay isn’t just about dance studios; it's a place where ballet spills into everyday life, so let's explore the fun beyond the dance floor!
1. Get Inspired by Art: 🖼 Explore the beauty of art with a ballet-inspired lens. Take a visit to The Whitley Bay Museum where you can discover captivating works featuring ballerinas and theatrical scenes, a beautiful reminder of the long-standing bond between art and dance. You'll get a totally different perspective on familiar pieces!
2. The Bayside Ballet Boutique 💃 A real hidden gem is The Bayside Ballet Boutique. Tucked away in a cute corner of Whitley Bay, this little boutique stocks an absolute treasure trove of ballet-themed clothing, accessories, and gifts. Think sparkly leotards, luxurious tutus, cute ballet-themed jewellery and everything else that every dance-loving soul desires! And who knows, you might even stumble upon some unique ballet-inspired pieces by local artists and designers. It’s perfect for finding that special outfit for a ballet performance or a new look for your ballet classes!
3. The Bayside Ballet Festival 👑 Don’t miss out on the Bayside Ballet Festival - an annual summer event filled with exciting workshops, captivating performances, and incredible competitions! The best part? It's free to attend. Watch a captivating performance on the beachfront stage with the stunning coastline as the backdrop – truly magical!
Ballet Fashion: Be Your Own Ballerina Chic
Okay, let’s talk fashion! It’s about expressing yourself through clothing and embracing your own ballerina style. This summer, I’m loving:
The Romantic Ballet Look: Think dreamy, elegant and effortless! Opt for flowing skirts, vintage floral prints, delicate lace details and feminine silhouettes. I am especially partial to a delicate rose-patterned skirt and a pale pink chiffon top for a truly romantic look!
The Urban Ballet Trend: Streetwear meets classic ballet for a playful, cool look! Think oversized T-shirts, stylish leggings, comfortable sneakers with a subtle ballet touch, like a sparkly shoe or a ballerina print! You could even rock a simple leotard over some high-waisted jeans for a casual yet chic ensemble.
The Retro Ballet Glam: Step back in time with the gorgeous looks from classic ballets! This trend embraces elegance and extravagance. Imagine figure-hugging velvet dresses, elegant hairstyles with jeweled clips, and a statement-making piece of jewellery. For a retro-inspired ballet night, try pairing a sparkly wrap skirt with a fitted satin top!
But let’s talk tutus! 💖 This is the perfect summer for adding a splash of tutu-liciousness to your wardrobe! There are so many different types and styles available, and don’t be afraid to experiment. I’m all for finding ways to work a tutu into any occasion! A tutu paired with jeans and a cute T-shirt makes for the perfect casual summer look!
It’s all about having fun!
My message to you is simple: This summer, forget the stress of daily life and let your inner ballerina shine. Experiment with different ballet styles, explore the beauty of art and dance, dress your best, and enjoy every moment! You don’t need to be a professional dancer to have fun with ballet. The beauty of this world is that everyone can join in and express their own unique creativity.
tutusummer #tutuseason #summerballet