Hey lovelies! It’s Emma here, back from a glorious ballet-fuelled holiday (more on that later) and ready to dish all the latest happenings in the London ballet scene! As the city basks in the golden glow of summer, so too is our beloved dance world buzzing with excitement.
A Kaleidoscope of Colour:
Let’s start with the most thrilling news - a splash of colour is hitting the Royal Opera House! The new production of Sleeping Beauty, launching this September, is set to be a visual feast. Forget the traditional pastel hues, this interpretation is going for a vibrant, modern aesthetic. Expect bold colour palettes, stunning costume design (think sequins, silk, and tulle in abundance!), and innovative set design that will transport you straight into the enchanting world of Aurora. I’m personally hoping for a fiery pink and turquoise ensemble, it'd be absolute fire 🔥 The sneak peek they shared on social media had me practically doing pirouettes in my chair!
Outdoor Escapades:
Who needs a stuffy theatre when the sun is shining? Across London, open-air performances are popping up like daisies in spring. From the whimsical grace of the Ballet Guild’s outdoor workshops in Regent's Park to the raw passion of street ballet performances in South Bank, the city's offering a free, refreshing take on dance. I've even spotted a flash mob at Covent Garden Market, which was truly spectacular! And for those who love a bit of history with their dance, Hampton Court Palace is hosting a series of summer ballets, with beautiful backdrop views of Henry VIII's former residence.
Fashion Frenzy:
Speaking of outdoor events, have you heard about the "Dance in the Park" fundraiser? It's going to be epic! Imagine a sun-drenched park, live music, and of course, a whole host of stylish dancers, and you. This year’s dress code? All Pink, Everything Pink! Think blush, rose, coral, hot pink - the more extravagant, the better! I've already got my eye on a custom-made tutu from my favourite local seamstress - just wait until you see the layers and the glitter!
Tutu Trends:
Speaking of tutus (because, let's face it, I always come back to them!), summer’s seen a surge in fun, flirty, and definitely Instagram-worthy tutus. The key is layering – a soft pink chiffon underneath a fiery red tutu? Oui, oui! Add some embellishments, a cute ballet bun, and some statement earrings, and you've got yourself a summer-ready ballet outfit. You can find some gorgeous styles at the ballet boutique near Trafalgar Square, but my best secret? A hidden vintage shop in Notting Hill. 🤫
Behind the Scenes:
But the ballet world is not just about grand productions and shimmering tutus, darling! I’m especially excited to share some insights into the local ballet scene. This summer has seen the launch of a fantastic programme called "Dance with Us." It’s a fantastic initiative where young aspiring dancers can train with the professionals, learning from the best in the industry. I was fortunate enough to be invited to one of the sessions - the atmosphere was truly inspiring! I'm seriously hoping that some of the youngsters in the program get to be featured in a major production - the potential is just unreal.
So there you have it! Summer's here, the dance floor's open, and there's no shortage of inspiration around every corner. Let's keep the spirit of ballet alive all summer long! 💃 💖
