2023 Winter Ballet Season in Brussels

Hey lovelies! It’s Emma here, back with another post. Winter is officially here, which means it’s time to dust off our finest winter woolies, grab a steaming mug of hot chocolate, and head to the theatre – because it’s Tutu Season!

As the nights draw in and the festive cheer begins to bubble up, Brussels comes alive with the magical glow of twinkling lights and… wait for it… breathtaking ballet performances. Honestly, there’s no better way to add a touch of glamour and elegance to these cold winter nights than with a visit to one of the city’s many amazing ballet companies.

This year, I’ve been lucky enough to see some truly stunning performances, each with its own unique charm and character. Here’s a little glimpse into some of my personal highlights, showcasing the talent and artistry that’s making this #tutuwinter one for the books!

Let’s be real – the Ballet Vlaanderen are legends for a reason! They consistently deliver spellbinding performances and this year, their rendition of ‘The Nutcracker’ was no exception. This iconic Christmas classic truly came to life in a spectacular explosion of vibrant colours, stunning costumes (so many beautiful tutus!), and captivating choreography. You could practically feel the excitement as the story unfolded, taking us on a fantastical journey from Clara's Christmas Eve right through to a dreamlike land filled with enchanted toys and sugar plum fairies.

The whole performance felt so perfectly crafted - every detail, from the sets and lighting to the intricate costumes, seemed designed to pull you straight into the magic. Speaking of details, the attention to the dancers' skill and technique was astounding! Those perfectly executed leaps, flawless turns, and exquisite footwork - chefs kiss – the ballet was truly a feast for the eyes.

Plus, they added a modern twist to the production with some really funky disco moves in the 'Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy', which got my heart pumping and honestly made me want to hop up and join in myself. This version of ‘The Nutcracker’ truly celebrated the timeless beauty of classic ballet while simultaneously incorporating a fresh, playful element that was truly exhilarating.

Now, I know you’re all about those beautiful tutus and amazing leaps, but don’t underestimate the power of a truly captivating story! That’s what stood out to me in Ballet de l’Opéra de Bruxelles’ production of ‘Giselle’. It was an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. From the innocent and tender love of Giselle to the tragedy that follows, each moment was exquisitely rendered by the dancers' powerful performance.

They took you on a whirlwind journey of emotion, highlighting the true beauty and fragility of the human spirit. And for those of us who love a good dance drama, trust me, this is definitely worth checking out. It’s a performance that will stay with you long after the final curtain falls.

For a completely different experience, I went to see ‘Antigone Now’, a breathtaking contemporary dance performance by Les Ballets C de la B. This show really pushed boundaries! I loved the powerful and provocative nature of the choreography and how it boldly addressed contemporary issues like love, loss, and conflict.

While there weren't any traditional tutus in sight, there were a few gorgeous pieces of movement, a bit more athletic than a traditional ballet performance, and some stunning costumes that gave it that modern and dynamic vibe.

Honestly, this one really made me think. The story, and the movement used to convey it, wasn't necessarily what you expect from ballet. And honestly? It’s exactly what made this show so exciting. It was the perfect reminder that dance is a powerful form of expression that can transcend all forms and styles.

To sum it up – Tutu season in Brussels is pure magic! The city’s cultural heart truly comes alive with captivating performances and, honestly, what could be better than a dose of grace and beauty during the cold winter months?

I love the atmosphere. The crisp winter air adds a sense of magic to the entire experience. And who doesn’t love a good post-ballet night out for a hot chocolate or a glass of something sparkling?

So, lovelies, make sure to add some ballet magic to your winter schedule! Whether you're a seasoned ballet enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, these incredible performances are sure to delight you.