It’s that time again, babes! The crisp air is swirling with snowflakes (or, let's be honest, driving rain, but hey, we can dream), the smell of mulled wine is lingering in the air, and twinkling Christmas lights are casting a magical glow everywhere you look. But for me, this means one thing and one thing only: it’s winter ballet season! 🎉
Let me tell you, there's just something so deliciously decadent about snuggling up in your cosiest jumper (preferably pink, duh), a hot chocolate in hand, watching those graceful dancers glide across the stage. It's a feast for the senses, the perfect antidote to the winter blues, and frankly, the absolute highlight of the year!
Cleethorpes has never failed to impress when it comes to winter ballet, and this year was no different! From the traditional Nutcracker to some contemporary masterpieces, there was something for everyone.
The "Nutcracker" at the Playhouse
Firstly, the absolute show-stopper: the Nutcracker at the Cleethorpes Playhouse. Now, you can’t go wrong with this classic, but they really went all out this year! From the exquisite costumes (I particularly loved the Sugar Plum Fairy's glittering tutu!) to the enchanting set design, it truly was a magical spectacle.
The dancing was divine, with each dancer conveying emotion through every pirouette and arabesque. And let's be honest, the mouse king was truly a dreamboat (maybe not in the traditional sense, but you get my drift 😉). The little ones in the audience were mesmerised, and who could blame them? The Nutcracker really has that special something, and I'm already looking forward to next year!
The Dance House's Modern Masterpieces
Moving on from the more traditional fare, The Dance House Cleethorpes put on some really captivating contemporary shows. One piece, "Ephemeral," was absolutely stunning, a hauntingly beautiful dance that explored themes of time and mortality.
I'm not sure I’ve ever seen something so emotional yet so technically impressive! The use of light and shadow was breathtaking, and I was left utterly speechless. And I don't know about you, but for me, there's nothing more satisfying than being challenged, inspired, and even a little bit moved by a piece of art.
The "Ballet Under the Stars" Experience
But it wasn’t just about the performances inside; Cleethorpes went all out with their festive street events too. “Ballet Under the Stars,” featuring a free performance in the town square, brought the magic of dance right to the heart of the community! It was a lovely way to enjoy some fresh air, a bit of holiday cheer, and experience the magic of dance with friends and family.
And of course, there was a whole heap of holiday spirit in the air - families gathering, hot chocolate stands popping up, and everyone wearing the brightest smiles.
The Cleethorpes Ballet Scene: Thriving and Diverse
It's so inspiring to see the local ballet scene in Cleethorpes truly flourishing! From established dance companies to passionate community groups, everyone was working their magic this season. And honestly, seeing so many young dancers showcasing their talent was the perfect reminder of just how much joy and creativity there is to be found in dance!
I know some people think ballet is "all frills and fluff," but for me, it's so much more than that. It’s discipline, it's artistry, it's emotion – it’s truly a story told without words.
And, I have to admit, I do have a special place in my heart for tutus (what’s more festive than a little bit of tulle, right?!). This year, they’ve brought the winter ballet season to a whole new level of fabulous, and I’m so here for it!
What are my top picks?
It's always difficult to choose favourites, but for me, the highlight of the season had to be… (drumroll please)… "Ballet Noir," by the Cleethorpes Dance Collective. I'm obsessed with all things noir, so when I heard they were putting on a modern take on the genre, I knew I had to be there. The choreography was simply electrifying, and I loved how they blended ballet with contemporary dance and a hint of sassy jazz moves (disco is my jam, and the dancers absolutely killed it!).
*Overall, this year’s Cleethorpes Winter Ballet season was everything I hoped for and more! * It was the perfect balance of elegance and excitement, leaving me feeling inspired and thoroughly entertained.
But let's face it, with so much magic on offer, I'm already starting to dream about the next season! 💖
#tutuwinter #tutuseason
