The International Dance Scene: June 1997
By: Beatrice LeMarchant
My darlings, it’s that time of the month again, when I flit from glittering gala to hushed performance space, absorbing the world of ballet with every delicate fibre of my being. June has been an intoxicating whirl of exquisitely executed pirouettes, dazzlingly dramatic ballets, and enough tulle to rival a meringue mountain. Let's dive in!
The Paris Opera Ballet: An Evening of Tchaikovsky
Paris, that city of endless enchantment, hosted a truly captivating event at the Palais Garnier. A complete program of Tchaikovsky ballet masterpieces. Now, one might think it would be all sugary swans and valiant heroes, but the Paris Opera Ballet, under the masterful eye of their Director, delivered a performance both opulent and deeply moving.
We started with **“The Nutcracker.”** Now, darling, don’t groan! This was a ‘Nutcracker’ unlike any I’ve seen. It was staged with such breathtaking artistry – lush sets that shimmered under the chandeliers, and costumes that looked like they were plucked straight from a gilded dream. And then, there was Sylvie Guillem as the Sugar Plum Fairy! Her performance was beyond divine, her dancing ethereal and yet filled with such power. Her arabesque – a sublime silhouette against the opulent backdrop – made the room gasp, let me tell you!
And to follow that? The pièce de résistance, **“Swan Lake.”** Laurent Hilaire as the Prince, elegant as a thoroughbred stallion, and a beautiful, tormented Odette-Odile played by the exquisite Eleonora Abbagnato. Her portrayal was deeply emotional, showing us a woman tragically torn between two worlds. The final duet, their sorrow and acceptance intertwining like the swans in the lake, had the audience captivated, a hush falling over the hall like a whisper.
If you can, darling, make your way to Paris and see this. You won't regret it.
The Royal Ballet: New Choreography Unveiled
Now, while I adore the classic ballets, there's something truly exciting about new choreography, fresh perspectives on the art. This month, London's Royal Ballet dazzled with the premiere of **“Fata Morgana”** by Christopher Wheeldon. It’s a modern piece, beautifully inspired by Renaissance Italy, a rich tapestry of historical intrigue and whimsical fantastical elements. I do love a little mystery!
The dancers, a captivating blend of strength and fluidity, truly inhabited the characters. Darcey Bussell, radiant in her movements, was simply unforgettable as the Fata Morgana herself. Her technique was as always impeccable, and there’s something almost magnetic about her onstage presence.
But the heart of the piece lies in the score, Wheeldon pairing the choreography with a blend of contemporary music and Renaissance melodies – a fascinating contrast that worked beautifully. A ballet that demands to be seen, not only for its artistry, but for its captivating narrative.
The Bolshoi: Back to its Roots
Back to the homeland of ballet, Russia! I found myself in Moscow this month, the Bolshoi staging a revival of **"Giselle."** Now, this isn't the first time this ballet has graced the Bolshoi's stage, but the production was utterly exquisite.
Their famous ballerinas, each a masterpiece of precision and grace, brought Giselle and Myrtha to life. It was a visual spectacle, with stunning costumes and a beautiful stage design. And the Bolshoi’s corps de ballet, always magnificent, was exceptional. They are truly the heart and soul of the company, giving each production its dramatic dynamism.
What truly struck me, darling, was the palpable emotion the dancers conveyed. Giselle's vulnerability, her love, and tragedy; Myrtha's powerful revenge – these were all played out on stage with such passion and artistry that one felt swept up in their world. It’s the classic, heart-rending beauty that draws me back to this ballet time after time.
Beyond the Ballet
Of course, life isn't just about classical ballet. This month, I was utterly delighted to attend a contemporary dance performance by a company called “Movement & Light” in Barcelona. This was a refreshing change from the grandeur of the larger companies. It's important to experience the artistry and emotion that dance offers in all its forms, darling, not just within the traditional structure.
They are a group of young, very passionate dancers who explore new and provocative ways of moving the body. The energy was electric. It was exhilarating, even for a veteran ballet viewer like myself! Theirs is a powerful statement on human emotion, with minimal set and costume. Their bare bodies spoke volumes.
**Beyond the Dance: Artistic Encounters**
While dance was the focus this month, I did indulge my inner art enthusiast as well! I must share a beautiful exhibition I saw at the Victoria & Albert Museum, "Impressionism: Fashion & Modernity." This was a gorgeous exploration of the influence of Impressionism on the fashion of the era – the bold colors, the fluidity of the fabrics, and the sense of effortless beauty in everything they created.
From the Impressionist's brushstrokes to the movement of a dancer, it's a captivating reflection on art in all its forms and its ability to transcend its mediums.
There’s so much more to experience this season, darling! And I will be sure to share it with you in my next missive. Keep an eye on this journal for the very latest from the world of dance!