Okay, so I know you all know that feeling – that crisp winter air, the smell of mince pies in the shops, and the overwhelming need to wear pink EVERYTHING. Well, darlings, this year Bath has absolutely smashed the winter season with a gorgeous ballet line-up that’s even more addictive than mince pies and hot chocolate combined! (Yes, it’s possible.)
It's Tutu Season, darling!
It's not just about the ballet performances, though they are exceptionally good, it’s about that entire feeling, that atmosphere that makes you want to wear your pinkest tutu (with strategically placed diamante detailing, of course) and twirl around a frosty fountain! From the stunning classical ballets to those playful, modern takes, it’s all just magical.
From Grand Classical to Playful Modern
First up, we had the Bath Royal Ballet Company’s production of ‘The Nutcracker’. Now, you know I’m a huge fan of all things traditional, and their take on this classic really knocked my sparkly slippers off. The staging was absolutely spectacular, and the costumes – let’s just say I’m already dreaming of getting a similar snowflake tutu!
The choreography was absolutely beautiful, full of emotion and stunning grace. I’m talking pointe shoes soaring through the air, perfect arabesques, and just enough little “I’m so tiny and adorable” flourishes that had everyone gasping and awing. Seriously, they managed to make an already magical ballet even more breathtaking. I even got a little emotional, quelle surprise!
Next, we had something a bit more modern – the "Dancing through December" gala at the Theatre Royal. This is where it all got truly fabulous, if I’m honest! It was a mix of international ballet stars, innovative choreographers, and drum roll please - a bit of disco! You might think “disco and ballet?” sounds weird, but trust me, it worked perfectly. They’ve taken classic disco hits, mixed them up with some incredible new choreography, and thrown in some shimmering costumes that really put the disco ball vibe into overdrive!
One particular performance, with a completely unexpected use of 70s glitterball vibes, really blew my mind. I’m not going to spoil it, but let's just say that I'm convinced there's some magical, sparkling fairy dusting everything this year, especially when it comes to local ballet performances.
More than Just Performances:
Don't think for a second this season has been all about just sitting and watching. We had Ballet Bootcamp, an awesome workout class led by some professional dancers. Yes, you read that right! And yes, it’s just as glamorous as it sounds. Think perfectly coordinated leaps and pliés, all set to that beautiful ballet music that gets your heart pumping.
The "Backstage with the Ballerinas" workshop was equally as magical. Not only did we get a sneak peek into the costumes and sets for some of the major productions, but we got to learn from the choreographers and dancers themselves! They're absolutely lovely people (and some serious professionals!), so getting a chance to chat with them was definitely a highlight.
Tutu season isn’t just a season – it’s a whole sparkly, magical vibe!
Don't get me wrong – this wasn't just about me gushing over my love of pink tutus and disco, although, I must admit I can’t help but get a bit carried away. There's a reason why this season is so popular – because it offers something for everyone. From the stunning grace of classical ballet to the joyful energy of modern dance, there's a whole spectrum of beauty and artistic brilliance on display.
And you know what? This is just the start of the tutu magic here in Bath. I hear they're already planning a special performance by a famous ballerina later on in the season. (Just as well I have that new, super-sparkly, pink tutu ready to wear….)
If you’re even remotely thinking about checking out a ballet performance this season, do it. Just do it, you won’t regret it. I’m calling it now: it’s going to be the most magical and exciting winter ever!
#tutuwinter #tutuseason #balletlover #bathlife #discoqueen #pinksrule
