Style at the RWBallet: Romeo + Juliet
ABOUT STYLE AT THE RWBALLET
Ballet has come a long way since it’s beginnings in the courts of the Italian Renaissance. The 1700s primarly saw the classical and theatrical ballet styles of Russia and Denmark while today, we see modern pieces like Q Dance and The Handmaid’s Tale. Attendees of the ballet have evolved as well, from bigwigs and Royalty in standard garb of long gloves and top hats to now a plethora of ages and backgrounds who often anticipate the show with tickets in hand.
They’re all wondering the same question: What should I wear to the ballet?
We would like to help by offering a few classic outfit ideas, all available at our favourite local shops, for each production of the season to inspire you for a matinee viewing or an elegant evening out with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. While there is no dress code, of course, there is much fun to be had dressing up for an afternoon or evening at the ballet. Putting on your best can add to the experience of being transported from mundane routines to the allure and glamour of attending the ballet. Keep an eye out for guest bloggers and designers on future Style at the RWBallet posts!
STYLE AT ROMEO + JULIET
With the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company performing Romeo + Juliet around Valentine’s Day, romantic looks are the obvious choice. Feminine floral patterns and lace pop against a snowy Winnipeg background, candle lit dinner at Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar or a crowded lobby at the Centennial Concert Hall. A bold yet quirky tuxedo adds sophisticated fun to an evening out while a crisp, blue shirt tucked into grey wool pants is a comfortable and class choice for an afternoon show.
Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar acted as a beautiful backdrop to the looks modelled by Royal Winnipeg Ballet School Professional Division students Nathaniel and Hannah. All women’s looks are available at Out of the Blue in Osborne Village and men’s looks are all available downtown at Eph Apparel.
MATINEE
YOUR TURN
Wear your ballet best to Romeo + Juliet from February 12 to 16 at the Centennial Concert Hall for a chance to be spotted and win a $50 gift card to Out of the Blue or Eph Apparel!
ABOUT THE MODELS
Originally from Corpus Christi, Texas, Nathaniel moved to Winnipeg to attend the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School Professional Division in Fall 2013. He is currently in Level 5 specializing in modern and his favourite choreography is Loni Landon. Nathaniel is enjoying Winnipeg and says he doesn’t mind the cold as it has surprisingly inspired him to dance.
Hannah is an Aspirant in the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School Professional Division and is originally from North Vancouver, British Columbia. She attended Summer Session 2013 specializing in ballet and contemporary dance and was invited to return as an Aspirant in the Fall. Since moving to Winnipeg Hannah has been enjoying all the beautiful prairie sunsets; the -40 degree weather, not so much.
Written by Ava Jerao
Photography by Michelle Blais + Ava Jerao