July 2000: A Summer of Dance Delights
My darlings, as the sun beats down and the air crackles with anticipation, it seems the entire world is taking to the stage. This month, dance enthusiasts like ourselves have been spoiled with an embarrassment of riches - from the sublime to the simply sensational. So, grab your finest fan and a glass of chilled champagne, and let's dive into the dazzling world of July's ballet offerings.
The Royal Ballet's Midsummer Dream
My summer began, quite predictably, with the Royal Ballet. This year, the jewel in their crown was undoubtedly "A Midsummer Night's Dream," a magical, whimsical production of the Mendelssohn ballet, with the genius of Frederick Ashton's choreography at its core. Now, we all know the Shakespearean classic, but the Royal Ballet breathed fresh life into the familiar tale with its masterful depiction of fairies, mischievous sprites, and the endearingly entangled mortals.
Let me tell you, dear reader, I was simply swept away by the visual splendour! From the exquisite costumes by the ever-so-talented David Walker (those shimmering, iridescent fairy wings, divine!), to the breathtaking set design by John Piper (the moonlit forest, simply divine!), the entire production was a feast for the eyes.
Now, we must of course speak of the dancing. Darcey Bussell, our own enchanting Titania, delivered a performance that was simply luminous, her movements effortlessly graceful, her gaze captivating. She was perfectly partnered by Jonathan Cope's Oberon, who, with his elegant athleticism and mischievous air, was a force to be reckoned with. And let's not forget the glorious comedic turn from a charmingly mischievous Alonzo King as Puck, whose leaps were, well, positively breathtaking!
If you weren't lucky enough to see this enchanting production, my dearest reader, I can only encourage you to catch it on the Royal Opera House's YouTube channel! It's a sheer delight and perfect for a languid summer's evening.
The Paris Opera's "Le Sacre du Printemps": A Bold Statement
Of course, a summer of ballet wouldn't be complete without a foray to Paris. This time, my mission was the Palais Garnier for a captivating, and quite frankly shocking, performance of "Le Sacre du Printemps" with the Paris Opera Ballet.
Oh, darling! This is not your sweet, genteel ballet. This Stravinsky masterpiece, with its revolutionary score and raw, primal choreography, left me breathless. We're talking pulsating rhythms, barbaric movements, and a brutal yet captivating ritualistic sacrifice!
Choreographed by the legendary Pina Bausch, this was no ordinary ballet. She, with her penchant for the unsettling, created a visceral performance that forced you to look deep into the soul of the dancer and into the depths of human emotions. It's almost impossible to not be drawn in by the power and raw intensity of it all.
Of course, some may find the jarring disjointedness of the choreography and the lack of a classical narrative challenging, but for those seeking something bold, something deeply affecting, this is an unforgettable ballet experience.
A Romantic Rendezvous in Rome: "Giselle"
I adore a romantic tale, and my recent trip to Rome offered the perfect opportunity to indulge in the timeless classic "Giselle" at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. What is more romantic than an enchanting peasant girl, her love for a mysterious prince, and a spectral ballet of the Wilis?
I must say, the Rome Opera Ballet captivated me with its emotive dancing, exquisite costuming, and the magnificent orchestra that accompanied their movements. The Wilis, led by a hauntingly ethereal Alessandra Ballarò, swirled and floated, creating a truly breathtaking spectacle, especially during the iconic second act, when Giselle’s spirit is embraced by the ethereal beauties in the moonlight.
The American Ballet Theatre in a Fiery "Don Quixote"
Ah, the American Ballet Theatre! I have such fondness for this company. My journey took me to New York this month, to be seduced once again by their brilliant talent. This season's "Don Quixote" offered a feast for the senses! The iconic Minkus score pulsated with passion, driving the vibrant choreography, inspired by Marius Petipa's original, into an exhilarating crescendo of colour, athleticism and pure joy.
There was, of course, the always captivating Paloma Herrera in the lead role of Kitri. My dears, this woman embodies fire and energy, her quick turns and joyous leaps simply spellbinding. She was exquisitely matched by David Hallberg, the charming and vigorous Don Quixote. I, for one, could never tire of their beautifully executed and emotionally charged pas de deux.
And how can I not mention the delightful ensemble scenes? I was enchanted by the intricate formations of the Spanish ladies in their cascading red gowns, their dance like a joyful tapestry of whirling patterns, every twist, every turn perfectly honed.
It was an evening full of theatrical flamboyance, a tribute to a ballet full of exuberant joy. "Don Quixote," with its dazzling displays of dance and colourful spectacle, reminded me why I fell in love with ballet so many years ago!
A Journey to the Orient with "The Dying Swan"
No, dear readers, my dance explorations did not stop there! My next stop was Hong Kong for the legendary Hong Kong Ballet's "The Dying Swan," a piece that takes on new life each time I see it. The delicate and expressive artistry of Mikko Nissinen in his reworking of this classical work by Mikhail Fokine is simply captivating! You can feel the tragedy and exquisite pain of the Swan, a role interpreted with profound emotion by the ever-elegant Li Li, a true embodiment of graceful poetry on stage. It was a haunting experience that reminded me of ballet's capacity for deep human emotion. It truly left a mark on me!
The World's Ballet Stars Converge in Salzburg
As July drew to a close, I was lucky enough to find myself in the heart of Europe, at the exquisite Salzburger Festspiele. The Salzburg festival is a ballet lovers’ paradise. The energy is electric, with every performance infused with a sense of artistry and refinement.
The line-up of world-class dancers was truly astonishing: Roberto Bolle, dancing with the divine Natalia Osipova; the captivating Diana Vishneva with the masterful Vladimir Malakhov; and, of course, the always mesmerising Sylvie Guillem. There was such brilliance, so much power, so much precision in each and every step they took!
And oh, the grandeur of it all, from the lavishly decorated venues to the stylish audiences. But above all, it was the dancers themselves who left me spellbound. They were at the pinnacle of their art, effortlessly graceful, commanding the stage with sheer artistry.
A Ballet Summer to Remember
My darlings, I have witnessed some incredible performances in these past weeks! From the sheer romance of "Giselle" in Rome to the fierce spectacle of "Don Quixote" in New York, and from the breathtaking magic of the Royal Ballet's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" to the emotional depth of "The Dying Swan" in Hong Kong, I have been truly spoiled! And let's not forget the awe-inspiring artistry that I encountered in Salzburg! Each performance has reinforced my absolute conviction that ballet is indeed the most exquisite, emotive, and ultimately captivating art form on the planet. So, raise a glass of something delicious, and let's celebrate a summer of ballet we will never forget.
Coming up Next Month:
- I hear there is a stunning new production of "Swan Lake" launching in Moscow, and you simply must see the astonishing work coming from the young talents at The Bolshoi - the whispers are that the next great ballerina is waiting to be discovered!
- And I am looking forward to attending the Edinburgh Festival, a must-attend for the serious dance aficionado. Rumour has it, the Berlin State Ballet is putting on a stunningly sensual "Sleeping Beauty" - let's just say I will be bringing my dancing shoes.
Until then, my loves, I leave you to ponder the beauty and the magic of ballet. Happy dancing!