AI Ballet Fashion Review 506

Ballet on the Move: July 1999 Well, darlings, it’s been a whirlwind of tutus and tiaras! The month has seen the balletic world buzzing with new productions, a dash of scandal, and some divine performances that left me utterly enchanted. A Parisian Dream at the Palais Garnier First stop: Paris, where the city of lights seemed to pulsate even more brightly with the opening of the Paris Opera Ballet’s new production of “Giselle”. Now, I’ve seen “Giselle” a million times, but this, darlings, was an entirely new experience. The staging, oh, the staging! Glimmering forests, the moon so hauntingly realistic it felt you could touch it, and costumes that looked like they were woven from moonlight. But the real star of the show was Sylvie Guillem, an absolute vision of fragile grace as the heartbroken Giselle. Her movements were a revelation, a captivating blend of fluidity and power, that captivated the audience from the very first step. Even the staid critics were waxing lyrical over her performance – unheard of! The applause went on for what seemed like forever. Nureyev's Ghost Haunts Covent Garden Meanwhile, across the Channel, the Royal Ballet at Covent Garden was having its own exciting season. They’ve re-staged “Don Quixote,” a revival of their own, but a delightful one nonetheless. The new sets are fabulous, reminiscent of a Goya painting come to life. It’s a bit of a visual feast. And I can't forget the dazzling costumes. The detail is superb; each one a miniature work of art in its own right. The male dancers were fantastic – powerful, elegant and effortlessly controlled. You could practically hear the echoes of Nureyev in the very air as they leapt across the stage. Now, the new principal, Alina Cojocaru, a real find, took on the role of Kitri with remarkable poise and sparkle. She has a breathtaking combination of lightness, precision, and, frankly, sheer fire. But alas, the night was a little bit soured by a strange, well, it was practically a brawl on stage. Seems two male dancers got caught up in their roles and things got a bit heated, shall we say? A little too close for comfort in the grand pas de deux, let’s just say, darling. The whispers afterwards suggested it may be the result of a bit of a tiff, perhaps a love triangle gone wrong, but I'm afraid only those involved know for sure. It certainly gave the audience a thrill though. Russian Sensations and Siberian Delights Right now, in Moscow, it seems the Bolshoi Ballet is living up to its name. There's something of a “Who’s Who” of ballets on the roster, everything from classics like “Swan Lake” and “The Sleeping Beauty” to the more modern works by choreographers like Kylian and MacMillan. The Russian audience is renowned for its enthusiasm, and this season, it's all fired up. I especially enjoyed the revival of "Spartacus". A work of dramatic power and undeniable masculinity, it’s one of those ballets that just stays with you long after the final curtain falls. From Moscow to Novosibirsk, the Novosibirsk State Opera and Ballet Theatre is making waves. They’re staging a new version of “Cinderella”. It's supposed to be quite provocative, featuring contemporary sets and some shocking choreography, I hear. Now I’m not one for the avant-garde, but I hear whispers this “Cinderella” is something truly unique, so I will certainly be adding this one to my travel list. A Farewell Tour for a Legend And to bring this whirlwind tour to a close, let's not forget a little tribute to an icon. Misty Copeland is doing her final farewell tour before retiring from her career with the American Ballet Theatre. And darling, it’s as spectacular as we've come to expect from her. The farewell performances at the Metropolitan Opera House were filled with passion and an undeniable air of sadness for her devoted fans. Seeing this remarkable dancer retire after a phenomenal career, one that redefined what a ballerina could be, was a bittersweet experience, I can assure you. The thunderous applause from her audience left me in tears, and not only from my perfectly-applied mascara, darlings! Fashionable Finale This month in fashion, my dears, it’s all about the dance! Tutus are making a comeback. They are everywhere, from high-street to couture. Of course, we all have our favorite designers for those elegant silhouettes. But let's be frank, for the balletic aesthetic, nothing beats a beautiful, billowing, light and ethereal tulle gown. But let’s face it, they need the right body to make it truly look its best. Now, my dears, you won't catch me in anything but elegant, tailored lines for the summer ballet season. Tailored dresses and jumpsuits in pastel shades, are all the rage, darling. Just think of a summer sunset! Pair it with chic sandals for a simple yet polished look. Don’t forget those sunglasses, they really finish off the ensemble for a day at the opera or theatre, you know. Well, my loves, the ballet world is certainly moving, and it’s a fantastic, dazzling ride. Until next month, when I'll be bringing you even more fabulous balletic adventures! xx