2023 Winter Ballet Season in Eltham

Hey ballerinas and ballet-loving besties! Emma here, your resident tutu-obsessed blogger, ready to spill the tea (or rather, the sparkling pink champagne) on the absolutely dazzling winter ballet season in Eltham. Now, let’s be real, this town is a bit… well, sleepy for most of the year. But when winter rolls in, Eltham suddenly becomes a hotbed of twirling and dancing. Let me tell you, I'm practically living in my ballet shoes (though, a good pair of glittery pumps is always a close contender)!

First things first, we’ve gotta talk about The Eltham Ballet Theatre’s ‘Nutcracker’ – a quintessential festive tradition! It's been a must-do since I was a wee girl and let me tell you, it's lost none of its sparkle. Imagine: soaring Christmas trees, sugar plum fairies in the fluffiest tutus you ever did see, and a mischievous, captivating mouse king (can I get a "he's totally hot" amen, sisters?). Plus, the little ones’ adorably-cheeky “toy soldiers” - swoon – it’s pure magical escapism, the perfect family-friendly affair to usher in the holiday cheer.

Next, the ‘Winter’s Embrace’ at the Eltham Arts Centre… This is the place where contemporary meets classical, where ethereal grace mingles with playful drama. Think moody lighting, billowing white tulle that wouldn’t look out of place at a Kylie Minogue concert, and, of course, the mesmerising moves of some of the most talented dancers in the county! There’s an unspoken poetry to the whole thing – it’s as captivating as a winter sunset with its stark beauty and hidden depths. It really makes you feel everything.

Speaking of feeling, let’s throw it back to the ‘Disco Fever’ at Eltham’s Town Hall – my personal favourite! It's all glittering costumes, outrageous makeup, and a seriously high-energy performance, all set to a soundtrack that'd make even the shyest of you want to dance your way onto the stage. Seriously, these guys were throwing down some moves I’d never seen before - imagine the energy of ‘Saturday Night Fever’ with the precision of a classical ballet – seriously amazing! This is the perfect antidote to the chills of a December night.

Let’s face it, Eltham is all about its cosy corners – and nowhere does that feel truer than in ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, which, I know, sounds odd for a winter season! But this isn’t your usual Shakespeare play; it's a ballet of light, flowing fabrics, a charming woodland world. The whole show takes place in a rustic, candlelit theatre setting, it's intimate and incredibly charming. It really made me want to wear my vintage lace tutu!

And then, of course, there are the Eltham Academy’s own annual ballet showcases. These are, by their very nature, intimate, personal affairs – a joyful celebration of student talent and, to be honest, just so gosh-darned inspiring! Witnessing the passion of these budding stars, all dreaming of one day performing at The Royal Ballet - that’s the true magic of winter ballet, don't you think?

The final stop on this magical ballet journey was the real highlight: The Gala’. Held at Eltham’s historic Mansion, it’s a true celebration of the season, where all of the companies come together, featuring excerpts from all of their performances. I’m not exaggerating when I say, I felt like I was part of an actual glittering fairytale. The sheer spectacle of it all; the music, the lights, and, of course, the absolutely gorgeous ballet shoes (I literally drooled – don’t judge!), it all left me utterly spellbound.

Now, let's talk wardrobe, shall we? You’ve gotta go for sparkle – and who doesn't love a good tutu? (Don't even get me started on the sheer fabric variety!) From floor-sweeping velvet to sleek black stretch material, this year, my motto is all about classic, effortless glam with just a hint of edgy sparkle. Think a killer pair of heeled boots, a cute winter jumper, and some showstopping chandelier earrings. If you’re really looking to live your ballet best life, a sparkly, glittering body stocking, like a modern take on a classic ballet leotard, would be just perf (with a pair of black tights to add a little warmth). But seriously, the whole point of the winter ballet season is to play with fashion! Don’t be afraid to embrace that whimsical fairytale aesthetic – go for the dramatic! I dare you to break out your sequins!

So, that’s Eltham’s ballet season: from the breathtaking to the wildly entertaining. I personally can't wait to return next winter and witness even more of these talented performances – but in the meantime, don't forget to get your tickets. And, for heavens’ sake, wear some sparkle!