2023 Winter Ballet Season in Barking

Hello darlings! It’s Emma, your favourite tutu-obsessed blogger, back with a sizzling hot take on the best thing to grace the Barking stage this winter - ballet! That’s right, the season’s upon us, and let me tell you, the tutus are flying, the pirouettes are sharp, and my love affair with winter ballet is stronger than ever!

As a lifelong dancer (and avid lover of all things pink!), I’ve been living for the magic of the season since the first snowflake graced the window pane. Whether it’s the twinkly Christmas lights or the hushed reverence as the orchestra strikes up the first chord, there’s something utterly bewitching about a ballet under the winter sky.

So, with my trusty pink glitter phone case in hand, I set out to review the top three shows gracing Barking’s stage. Brace yourselves, because this winter’s ballet scene is on FIRE!

1. "Nutcracker on Ice: A Sparkling Celebration": A Winter Wonderland on Wheels

First up, let’s talk about "Nutcracker on Ice: A Sparkling Celebration" at Barking’s very own ice rink! Now, this wasn’t your typical Nutcracker. Instead of traditional stage settings, imagine the whole thing on ice. Ballerinas glided across the surface in sparkling tutus, and their pointe shoes clicked like a jazzy beat against the smooth ice. Honestly, it was like watching a beautiful ballet sequence, but with a sprinkle of magic (and perhaps a hint of anxiety over the occasional wobble).

Let’s not forget the delightful ensemble of adorable snow fairies, with their tiny pink tutus, sparkling like Christmas tree decorations come to life. It’s all a bit over-the-top, and that's what I loved about it! It was pure, unapologetic fun, and frankly, with the festive cheer in the air, it was exactly the dose of escapism we needed this Christmas season. The choreography itself was fresh and fun, blending classic Nutcracker elements with a touch of contemporary flair.

The highlight, however, was the stunning “Waltz of the Snowflakes.” Picture it - a symphony of silver skaters gliding across the ice, their elegant forms disappearing and reappearing as the light catches the glittering costumes. Shiver-inducing and breathtakingly beautiful were just a couple of the adjectives flashing through my head!

Overall, "Nutcracker on Ice" was the perfect way to get into the spirit of the festive season. If you love a bit of sparkle, a bit of fun, and some serious ballet moves, this show is definitely for you!

2. "The Sleeping Beauty: A Tale of Magic and Dreams" - Classic Ballet Gets a Fresh Facelift

For those who prefer a more traditional approach, Barking Theatre's rendition of "The Sleeping Beauty" was an absolute stunner. Set against a backdrop of twinkling lights, it transported us to the magical world of fairies, princesses, and sleeping dreams. The costumes were breathtaking - think voluminous tulle and elegant silks, perfect for capturing the grandeur of a fairy tale world.

Now, I'm not going to lie, it took a bit of convincing for my inner disco-loving ballerina to settle in for this performance. My heart longs for contemporary twists, dazzling costumes, and a dash of irreverence! Yet, I must admit, "The Sleeping Beauty" completely won me over. The sheer talent of the dancers was incredible. From the elegant grace of the titular princess to the mesmerizing power of the wicked fairy Carabosse, each dancer embodied their role flawlessly.

And then, there’s the choreography. The classical elegance of "The Sleeping Beauty" flowed effortlessly from the stage, with every arabesque and fouetté exuding grace and artistry. Even though it’s a classic, the dancers’ interpretation added a freshness to the performance that really captured my imagination.

It was the ultimate fairy tale - romantic, beautiful, and with just a hint of mischief. It’s a must-see for anyone who enjoys classic ballet with a touch of fairytale magic.

3. "Black Swan: A Dark Tale of Desire and Ambition": Ballet with an Edge

And finally, for the night owls who crave a more contemporary, even edgy, take on ballet, "Black Swan" at The Barking Dance Studio was a masterclass in darkness, drama, and captivating storytelling. Think: dramatic lighting, sultry costumes, and a story that lingers long after the final curtain falls.

For this one, I put on my “rebellious tutu” - black, of course, and a touch more risqué than the others. This production is for those who are fascinated by the duality of human nature, the darker corners of our souls. It delved into themes of passion, obsession, and the desire for perfection, all through a beautiful but powerful dance.

The leading dancer absolutely nailed it! She was both vulnerable and fierce, and her movements captured the torment of the character's internal battle beautifully. She was the very embodiment of the swan - elegant and strong, graceful and defiant.

There’s no doubt, “Black Swan” is not for the faint of heart. But, if you crave a story that delves into the complex depths of human emotions, one that lingers and challenges you, this production is worth every ounce of its captivating energy.

The Verdict? Barking Has It All

So there you have it - my take on this winter's amazing ballet season in Barking! Whether you crave the festive fun of "Nutcracker on Ice", the elegant charm of "The Sleeping Beauty," or the darkness and drama of "Black Swan," Barking has something for everyone. It’s a truly exhilarating, diverse, and breathtakingly talented scene, and I can't wait to see what this winter brings next.

And now, it's time to take this opportunity to inspire all you fabulous ballet-loving readers: Go forth! Experience the beauty, the talent, the raw emotions, and the wonder of ballet in all its forms. This is the season for twirling, for taking centre stage, for embracing the joy of movement and expression. Don't let it pass you by!

Until next time, darlings! #tutuwinter #tutuseason