It's Christmas time, the festive season is in full swing, and all across the country, people are buying gifts, wrapping presents, and putting up their Christmas trees. And for ballerinas all over the world, Christmas is a time for reflection, a time for reflection, for dreaming about sugar plum fairies, and for dreaming of, of course, their next big performance. It is time to go big, for the biggest spectacle yet: **The Annual Ballet B*tchfest. **
The Ballet B*tchfest, which takes place each year on the 22nd December, is the biggest and most anticipated event in the ballet calendar and marks the end of the year of performances. A veritable ballet-a-thon of glitz, glamour and tutus (mostly in pink and white) of course! Think 'Showgirls' meets 'Black Swan' but without the crazy violence and dark drama, although perhaps with a slight sense of competition, let's be honest, every ballerina wants that prima ballerina role! You know, 'The lead', or in common speak - the star of the show, even for a day. ** The B*tchfest gives every ballerina a chance to show off their skills, take the spotlight, in a night of 'fabulous and festive ballet ' which showcases a variety of performances by ballet schools and professional companies from across the land! You’ll be amazed by everything from ‘Swan Lake’ to 'Coppelia'. Don’t forget those ballet slippers. And maybe an extra pair of tights! I do recommend extra sequins, those can never go amiss - what is a festive performance without a little shimmer and sparkle. You can't really go wrong if you bring out your most dazzling, sequiny outfit. (A diamante head piece never goes amiss.) **
Let’s not forget that B*tchfest isn’t just about performances! It’s a chance for ballerinas of all ages to get together, celebrate the festive season and have fun. It is quite an atmosphere! There’s a special Christmas market, where you can buy some lovely festive gifts and treats from local crafts people - ( you really have to see the beautiful hand-knitted ballerina ornaments) And I wouldn’t leave without sampling the best Christmas cookies. You’ll be absolutely spoilt for choice when it comes to cake - just don’t tell your ballet teacher or personal trainer!! I’ll let you into a little secret - B*tchfest is also a great opportunity to find inspiration for your New Year resolutions. All those amazing performances - so inspiring!!
B*tchfest wouldn't be B*tchfest without those fantastic photo opportunities. If you are taking part, be sure to have your friends, families and other ballerina-friends on standby, to capture those iconic poses for Insta or a special memory. (Think ballerina in a twirl, legs kicked up to the sky. But I mean you'll already know all this, so that should be no problem for you. After all, ballerinas are pros at making everything look stylish and artistic, right. And there’s the chance to catch up with old friends or make new ones. It is not all about just performances - but those performances are always pretty incredible too. You can see, just how incredible. You will find a wide variety of dancers, of course, of varying ages and expertise. (For example there is 'Tiny Tutus' section for young dancers! (But you wouldn't expect a bunch of four year olds to be anything but cute!) and a special segment for older and experienced dancers that has just as much passion - even more. I know, I know - everyone just loves to watch the young, sprightly newbies. But trust me, it's more captivating than you think, seeing ballerinas with years of practice, knowing they know their bodies like no other, really brings something special. That sort of experience adds so much, to those really breathtaking leaps.) But whether you're just a casual observer, or are one of those committed dance devotees - B*tchfest is an opportunity for everyone to appreciate the art and talent of ballerina - on stage, or those waiting to get their chance. **
**So what makes B*tchfest special?**
Here are just a few of my personal faves that keep me going back, year after year (and yes, that’s a LOT of tutus!!) It brings all dancers, together from all backgrounds with one single love: Ballet. (Not just for pros too! It’s inclusive. There are amateur groups and school pupils. Anyone can try and have a go. And it truly makes the B*tchfest the event that it is.) B*tchfest is an occasion for dancing, singing and celebration in the name of Christmas. And the atmosphere is pure magic!! (And there's usually plenty of mulled wine, cider, hot chocolate too!!)
If you love ballet or simply love Christmas, this is the Christmas-time event for you!