AI Ballet Fashion Review 546

Ballet Beat: November 2002 Darlings, It’s been a positively *thrilling* month for ballet! My darling, devoted readers know I adore an evening at the ballet - and November certainly did not disappoint. London's Aphrodite Rising
This month, we must begin with the sheer, unbridled *panache* that is The Royal Ballet's production of *Aphrodite Rising*, a newly commissioned work by the divine Christopher Wheeldon. Wheeldon’s talent is, as always, impeccable - it was truly like watching a flock of peacocks take flight as the corps de ballet swirled, glided and swooped, clad in exquisite (and rather scandalous) costumes inspired by Grecian mythology. The lighting was phenomenal, creating an ethereal, otherworldly glow, that transformed the stage into a shimmering paradise. And what can one say about the dancing? Breathtaking. Each arabesque was a delicate flourish, each pirouette a graceful whisper. It must be said, *Aphrodite Rising* is not a traditional, saccharine ballet, however. It is undeniably *sexy*. There is a smoldering, undeniable chemistry between the lead pair, the magnificent Daria Klimentova and the dazzling Alexander Campbell. Darling, they quite *sparkled* in a way that was positively *magnetic*. At times, I almost felt myself transported to the depths of Olympus. *Aphrodite Rising* was not merely an *entertainment*, it was an artistic triumph, a masterpiece in its own right. Parisian Flair Of course, one must always acknowledge Paris. *The* ballet capital of the world, and truly the setting for *the* most beautiful production I witnessed this month: The *Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris* *La Bayadère*. Ah, *La Bayadère*, that exquisite ballet that takes us on an extraordinary journey from a mythical Indian temple to a fantastical, shimmering underworld. Darling, I was simply *enthralled*. The dancers at *Opéra de Paris* are simply sublime; so very *expressive* in every movement, even their most subtle gestures are captivating. The corps de ballet seemed to shimmer and shimmer - they really embody the essence of the divine, of a higher form. It’s *so* worth noting how wonderfully French the costumes are: shimmering, beaded and bejeweled, oh so very sophisticated. *La Bayadère* is not simply ballet; it’s *theatre*, an immersion into a world of rich costumes, enchanting melodies and an otherworldly atmosphere. Across the Atlantic Now, my darling readers, it would be remiss of me not to journey across the Atlantic. The ballet scene in New York has been most interesting of late! *American Ballet Theatre* in particular has been doing remarkable work with its repertoire. I saw *Swan Lake* in November. You simply *cannot* go wrong with a classic, and the New York *ABT* put on a breathtaking, beautiful show. Now, I have a secret love for *Swan Lake*. It's almost the quintessential ballerina ballet - and yes, I admit I always shed a *little* tear during that iconic coda. The dancers at the *ABT* are simply outstanding. I must mention the exquisite Ashley Bouder - so strong, so beautiful, so emotionally invested. It was truly an unforgettable *performance*. The Future of Ballet Darlings, with all of these wonderful and magnificent performances happening in the world, I find myself *optimistic* about the future of ballet. There’s a vibrancy, a *frisson* to this art form. Ballet may have its roots in the traditional, but it is certainly evolving, transforming itself with the times, pushing boundaries with beautiful artistry and captivating movement. Don’t forget, darlings, that dance is an *expression*, a reflection of humanity, of life’s triumphs and challenges. It moves us, it makes us think, and ultimately it reminds us of the sheer magic that exists within the human form. See you at the ballet, Olivia