An iconic New York City landmark, The Plaza, A Fairmont Hotel, made headlines this week with its plans to close in January for at least four years to undergo renovations. But before its doors shutter for a while, the hotel is offering another year of holiday festivities, this time with a special twist thanks to an immersive collaboration with Parisian brand Repetto.
Inspired by the holiday classic “The Nutcracker,” The Plaza and Repetto are fusing their creativity through immersive installations, a seasonal afternoon tea in The Palm Court and live ballet performances.
The French footwear and dance brand has a lot in common with one of New York City’s most famous hotels.
Nicole Gallagher, commercial director of The Plaza, told FN, “The Plaza and Repetto share a deep appreciation for heritage, craftsmanship, and the art of creating something truly timeless. Both brands have long histories rooted in luxury, artistry, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Repetto’s legacy in the world of ballet felt like a natural fit for The Plaza, which has long been a gathering place for artists and performers and a part of New York’s cultural fabric.”
Guests will be greeted upon arrival by cascading pointe shoes in ballet pink, sculptural satin ribbons and more festive decor reflecting Repetto’s signature aesthetic. One of the focuses of the collaboration is a Nutcracker Afternoon Tea debuted by The Palm Court, celebrating the beloved holiday tale. In partnership with Repetto, The Plaza pastry chefs curated an exclusive lineup of pastries and confections which translate the ballet flat brand’s aesthetic into blush hues, velvet textures and delicate sugar ribbon details. The whimsical menu is rounded out with festive teas and Champagne.
On The Plaza staying connected to the fashion industry, Gallagher said, “Fashion has always been an integral part of The Plaza’s identity. For more than a century, The Plaza has been at the heart of New York’s most glamorous moments, welcoming celebrated designers, fashion icons, artists, and tastemakers.”
“The Nutcracker” will also come to life with live ballet performances in The Palm Court and The Champagne Bar, ranging from intimate pas de deux to surprise performances in unexpected areas of the hotel.
Repetto CEO Charlotte Gaucher-Holmann explained why the collaboration centers around the classic ballet: “‘The Nutcracker’ brings together many of the elements that resonate deeply with Repetto: the world of dance and the power of imagination. It is also a story that evokes a very particular kind of magic, one associated with childhood, wonder and the festive season, yet capable of touching audiences of all ages. For Repetto, whose history is intrinsically linked to dance and transmission, it was a particularly meaningful way to express our heritage. In the setting of The Plaza, the story could take on another dimension.”
Gaucher-Holmann also explained to FN how an engaging in-person experience like this one is important to Repetto.
“Immersive experiences are deeply rooted in Repetto’s DNA and are a key part of what sets us apart. From opening a second Ballet Studio in Korea to our Christmas storytelling experiences in boutiques and Café Rose, as well as Dance Day, when we offer dance classes, we continually find new ways to bring our maison to life and create meaningful connections through culture, emotion and shared experiences,” the executive said. “Collaborations are a natural extension of this vision, allowing us to explore new territories, connect with new audiences and offer fresh perspectives on our maison while remaining true to our heritage.”