It's that magical time of year again, the time when the crisp winter air whispers tales of sugarplum fairies and when the twinkling fairy lights on every shop window hint at something sparkly and utterly delightful - it's tutu season!
Now, don't get me wrong, I love the heat and energy of a summer ballet, but there's just something so special about winter ballet, a warmth radiating from within. Maybe it's the feeling of anticipation as you wrap up in your thickest scarf and traipse to the theatre on a chilly evening, or the added layer of drama a velvet curtain brings to the performance. Maybe it's the thrill of adding some extra layers of sequins to your dance-ready wardrobe. Whatever the reason, winter ballet just has that je ne sais quoi that sets my inner fashionista heart aflutter!
This year, Rotherham has really outdone itself in the ballet department, offering an absolute sleigh-ride of choice. My tutu-loving heart, overflowing with glitter and pink tulle, is positively thrilled to report on the fantastic season of performances that have been gracing our local stage!
Firstly, let's talk about the Rotherham Dance Academy's "Nutcracker". Forget the sugarplums and snow - the young dancers absolutely nailed the Christmas spirit. The first act? A flurry of excitement with the most adorable children dancing with a joyful energy that radiated throughout the theatre. The second? Sheer theatrical genius, featuring some incredibly impressive, and frankly inspiring, performances by the more experienced dancers. This show is the perfect Christmas treat for all ages! It was literally a treat – my darling grandmother insisted on taking me for tea afterwards, the delightful old lady!
The Royal Ballet's performance of "Swan Lake" was truly exquisite, a feast for the eyes and the soul. The choreography was breathtaking, and the graceful swans, shimmering in their pearlescent tutus, took me on a fairytale journey. Of course, I *had to try out a similar look at the dance store afterwards. Oh, the joy!* The leading dancers' technical prowess left me utterly speechless, and the powerful emotions that resonated through their movements truly made this performance an unforgettable one. The costumes... let’s not even start, absolute perfection!
For those who prefer something a little more daring, "The Firebird" at the Rotherham Civic Theatre provided the perfect dose of intensity and spectacle. I’ve always adored the firebird costume; the vivid red plumage and the sharp, dynamic movements made for a truly mesmerizing performance. I even spotted a young girl backstage with an outfit vaguely reminiscent of a miniature firebird costume! So sweet, I had to have a chat with her mother. Darling child, she wants to become a ballerina - such potential!
Then, there was "Giselle", which I'd heard whisperings about but, let's face it, "Giselle" wasn’t my first choice – how wrong I was! The passion, the sorrow, the delicate strength woven into the movements… I found myself totally engrossed in the story. This is the perfect ballet to really dig your heels into. I just knew I'd be buying this DVD instantly. The next day I rushed into the store to find...sold out! Luckily, I have my eye on the perfect costume… that firebird colour!
There have also been some fantastic smaller productions. The Rotherham Youth Dance Company's performance of "Peter and the Wolf" was delightful, with the children engagingly using movement and sound to tell the story. The audience participation with a truly lovely grandpa and his sweet granddaughter singing along was just heartwarming. There’s something truly inspiring about witnessing young talent shine!
In a word: wow! This year, Rotherham's winter ballet season was all about the magic of the genre, showcasing breathtaking talent and creating captivating experiences. So, my fellow ballet enthusiasts, wrap yourselves up warm, don those sparkly tutus, and head down to your local theatre for a tutu good time!
Don't forget your ticket!
#tutuwinter #tutuseason #winterballet
