2023 Winter Ballet Season in Hamburg

It’s that time again, darlings! The wind’s nipping at my toes, the streets are sparkling with Christmas lights, and my wardrobe is overflowing with velvet, fur and... tutus?! Yep, you guessed it – tutuwinter is officially upon us, and Hamburg’s ballet scene is hotter than ever!

Every year I eagerly anticipate the winter ballet season, not just because of the dazzling displays of talent on stage, but also for the glorious spectacle that the whole affair becomes. Think, fluffy scarves, sparkly heels, and champagne in flutes taller than a ballerina’s leg (but not as long as our beautiful, billowing tutus, obvs!).

This year has been particularly exciting! Let’s just say, tutuseason is taking things to a whole new level of fabulous. We’ve got classics, contemporary creations, and everything in between - there’s something for every taste, from the traditionalist to the bold and experimental.

Speaking of bold, The Hamburg Ballet’s new production of ‘Swan Lake’ completely blew my mind. It’s an interpretation I’d never seen before, with a futuristic, neon-drenched aesthetic and costumes so stunning I wanted to steal them off the dancers right then and there. The choreography, too, was simply breathtaking, so full of life and emotion. I nearly wept when the prince danced a poignant, heartbroken solo (yes, I’m a bit of a sap – sue me).

I've been dancing myself silly, of course, and that brings me to one of my favourite finds this year, ‘Night of the Ballerinas’ at the Hamburg State Opera House. It was a night dedicated solely to showcasing female ballerinas - their strength, artistry, and raw talent! We had ballerinas of all ages and nationalities, showcasing a spectrum of emotions through masterful dancing. I couldn’t stop thinking, “This is what #girlpower is all about!” And, for the finale? A shimmering pink tutu-clad ensemble - my inner fangirl could not have been more pleased.

No tutuwinter review would be complete without a shout-out to the legendary Hamburg Ballet - always delivering breathtaking productions with dancers that are nothing short of miraculous. But let’s not forget the supporting cast, those unsung heroes backstage, ensuring everything runs smoothly from lighting to costume changes - you guys are the true magic makers, making tutuwinter the spectacle it is.

So, if you haven’t yet seen what Hamburg’s ballet scene has to offer, grab a friend, slip on your dancing shoes and make your way to one of the many venues. And don't forget to document your sartorial splendor! Post your #tutuwinter outfits and snaps of the fabulous performances using #tutuseason so we can all get a glimpse of the amazing ballet magic happening around us!

My top tip? Invest in a glamorous outfit (think sequin jackets, dramatic eyeliner, and perhaps a touch of pink for that perfect tutuwinter aesthetic).

Let's get this tutuwinter started, shall we? Let's dance! ✨💃🏻