Oh my gosh, guys, the winter ballet season in Wickford has been simply divine! It's the time of year when the crisp air brings a sense of anticipation, the twinkling Christmas lights add a magical sparkle to the nights, and, best of all, our favourite ballerinas grace the stage in their most glorious tutus!
I’ve always felt there's something incredibly glamorous about the winter ballet season. Perhaps it’s the shimmering lights that reflect on the beautiful costumes, or the dramatic backdrops that set the scene for a truly captivating performance. This year, Wickford has truly delivered, bringing us a stunning selection of shows that have had me glued to my seat from the opening notes to the final curtain call.
Firstly, let's talk about the tutus, my absolute favourite! It wouldn't be a proper winter ballet season without a whole parade of them. Think layered tulle, shimmering sequins, and an explosion of pink that would make even the most die-hard fuchsia fanatic swoon! From the soft pinks of the fairies in Sleeping Beauty to the fiery pink and red of the Swan Lake finale, the tutus on display this season have been an absolute joy to behold.
It’s not all about tutus though…
Although the tutus are always the star of the show for me, I have to admit, there’s something truly exhilarating about watching talented dancers bring their skills to life on the stage. The sheer strength and grace, the intricate footwork, the leaps and twirls that defy gravity… it’s a ballet bonanza for all the senses!
But this year’s winter season hasn't just been about traditional ballets; Wickford’s gone all out to offer a smorgasbord of different styles! We've been treated to a fabulous interpretation of The Nutcracker with a touch of contemporary flair, and the highlight for me, an amazing contemporary ballet piece called Echoes of Spring, set to a beautiful score that mixed classic melodies with an electronic pulse. I couldn’t help but tap my foot and feel the beat resonate within me. Talk about an amazing experience!
Wickford: The Dance Hub of the South-East
Wickford has been making its name as a major dance destination this season, with more local companies and professional touring productions coming to the town than ever before.
This year’s winter season saw some exciting partnerships, with the newly opened theatre The Dance Dome partnering with a host of dance schools from across the South-East to offer a variety of exciting workshop opportunities. There was literally something for everyone, with workshops for absolute beginners through to classes focused on advanced ballet technique. The town even launched its own dance competition, aptly called ‘The Tutu Twirl’, with talented youngsters battling it out for the coveted title of ‘Best Ballet Hopeful’.
It’s wonderful to see how passionate Wickford is about its ballet scene. The local dance companies, both big and small, are full of talented individuals who bring incredible enthusiasm to their craft. Watching these dancers develop their skills over the course of the winter season has been so inspiring! It's wonderful to know that the art of dance is flourishing right here in the heart of Wickford.
A touch of disco for the dancing queen…
My friends know that I love a little bit of disco glamour, so when Wickford Theatre offered an evening dedicated to 70s inspired dance pieces, I jumped at the chance to be there. And boy, did they deliver! We were treated to a magnificent performance that combined classical technique with high-energy moves reminiscent of disco’s golden age. I even spotted a couple of my favourite steps like the hustle and the disco line dance, expertly woven into a ballet masterpiece! You can bet I spent the evening throwing shapes and shaking my booty… just like in the good old days!
Overall, this year's winter ballet season has been absolutely magical. It’s a reminder that, no matter how cold it is outside, the warmth of a great ballet performance can always melt away any winter blues! #tutuwinter #tutuseason #dancingqueen
