Dear Dancers,
I thought a calming owl for the Christmas newsletter.
Gratitude
Thank you for your lovely cards, messages and gifts, you are most kind and generous.
Thank you too for another fabulous year of ballet classes, repertoire and technique workshops through the seasons, for making your journeys to our lovely venue, bringing your energy, enthusiasm and ballet passion. Your ballet progression is impressive, each in your own way from beginners to advanced dancers, the learning of ballet is boundless with an uplifting sense of personal achievement.
You inspire me and I celebrate you!
Reflections
In this difficult and rushed world, making time to exercise has become a necessity. Ballet strengthens us physically and mentally as body and mind engage together to create a 'moving mindfulness', ballet posture gives us confidence, balance improves and, it is a place to focus on yourself.
A dancer ritual of barre, centre and reverence, the beauty of movement to music and the friendships that stem from class, ballet is a special art to enjoy at any time of life.
Christmas Message
Your year may have been stressful with work, health, caring or helping out family or friends. The anxiety we feel to do the right thing, balance it all, along with keeping ourselves well in the mix can be overwhelming.
There may have been personal loss, the waves of grief and missing our loved ones can amplify at this time of year.
I hope, however you spend your Christmas, there will be time for quiet reflection and time for you.
Ballet Clips:
Finishing with a stirring pas de deux or two from a timeless Royal Ballet 'The Nutcracker'.
Clara and her Nutcracker Prince, the memorable partnership of a spiritual Francesca and Alexander, the fluidity and connection of their souls and the wonderful, glittering precision of Marianela and Vadim as Sugar Plum Fairy and Prince, simply glorious.
Click on full screen for those gorgeous close ups.
Clara and her Prince
I'll send updates and class booking for the new year at the weekend.
With faith, hope and blessings.
Wishing you all safe journeys, a peaceful Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.
Ali x