A Midsummer Night's Dream â In a world of its own
Dearest readers, itâs a joy to be back with you after what seems like a rather long hiatus. Summer is a time for escape, for languid afternoons spent in the shade of a weeping willow, a glass of chilled elderflower cordial at hand. And escape we did, my darlings, jetting across the globe in pursuit of the most captivating balletic offerings. From the cobbled streets of Paris to the glittering metropolis of New York, and, of course, our very own London, weâve been flitting about like a gaggle of exquisite butterflies. This month we bring you a dazzling array of reviews, each as individual as a petal on a summer rose.
Let us begin our journey in Paris, the city of love and the source of endless inspiration for all things artistic. We found ourselves swept away by the Paris Opera Ballet's new production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream". Now, Iâll confess, this tale of lovelorn fairies, mischief-making sprites, and cross-dressing Athenians has been interpreted in a thousand and one ways. But this production, choreographed by the legendary Angelin Preljocaj, offered something truly special. The first thing that struck me was the sumptuous, yet subtly futuristic costumes. The ethereal costumes, by Jean-Paul Gaultier, gave a whole new dimension to Titania's court, with sleek silhouettes and fabric that appeared to flow like moonlight. Preljocaj's choreography was, of course, masterful, full of his signature lyrical yet forceful gestures, evoking the fantastical quality of the play. It was particularly exquisite in the scenes involving the fairies. There was a real sense of them inhabiting their otherworldly environment, flitting and swirling like phantoms. Of course, I simply couldn't go without commenting on the captivating performance of Polina Semionova as Titania. Her dancing exuded such raw energy, yet with an undercurrent of longing. The way she moved with such controlled yet sensual power in "A Midsummer Nightâs Dream" made my heart soar with a beautiful melancholic bliss.
A new generation takes flight
Next, let's flit our way across the Atlantic to New York, that intoxicating metropolis, which, as always, held a treasure trove of performances to entice the most discerning ballet aficionado. At New York City Ballet, we caught a double bill that showcased some of the rising stars in the company. It's a real pleasure seeing young dancers blossom and bring fresh life to established repertoire. Firstly, the breathtaking Ashley Bouder, an ethereal sprite on stage, danced with such precision in Robbins' "Other Dances". Her movement had a rare kind of clarity, which meant I wasn't just observing her, I felt she was revealing her deepest emotions. Then there was the remarkable Megan Fairchild in Jerome Robbins' masterpiece "The Concert". I have to say, dear readers, Megan simply captivated the stage with her dancing; each move so precise and clear, full of poise. What's so wonderful is seeing dancers develop into artists - she isn't simply dancing steps, she's actually interpreting. And thatâs precisely what a true performer does: creates magic on the stage.
The Bard - Forever Inspiring
Finally, letâs return to our beloved London, where we find the Royal Ballet celebrating the genius of Shakespeare. This month, we witnessed the opening night of Christopher Wheeldonâs latest masterpiece, âThe Winterâs Taleâ. And what a magnificent treat it was. Wheeldonâs choreography was, in a word, spectacular. A sublime tapestry of movements, it had me spellbound. Iâve always loved the complexity of the narrative in "The Winterâs Tale", which offers both light-hearted joy and devastating sorrow, so Wheeldon was quite adept at using his language of movement to convey such raw emotion, and beautifully, at that. I thought that the role of Hermione (in the Royal Ballet version, Perdita), was beautifully inhabited by Darcey Bussell, so effortlessly bringing this Shakespearean princess to life. You simply canât go wrong with Wheeldonâs magical world of "The Winterâs Tale"!
Back to Reality?
Our ballet voyage has brought us face to face with some of the greatest creative minds of our time. From the bold vision of Preljocaj to the technical wizardry of Wheeldon, each of these ballets offers a unique window into the boundless world of dance. And yet, as the final curtain falls, it's comforting to know that we have the timeless art of dance to return to, time after time. This art form transcends language and generations, providing a shared space for the imagination and emotions to soar.
A Word of Advice
Before you head to the theater, make sure to check your wardrobe. I highly recommend you make a statement. Summer means a chance for bold prints and fabulous jewelry! For our ballet audiences, it's about making the right impression. So my dears, dress to impress and Iâll see you next month at our favorite haunt!
The Best of the Rest
The ballet world is buzzing with activity! To truly enjoy the beauty of this art, don't miss out on some outstanding productions, performances, and ballets around the globe!
- National Ballet of Canada: "The Sleeping Beauty". You can't go wrong with a ballet classic, my dears. And this production at the National Ballet of Canada is simply ravishing. It is beautiful, with dazzling costumes and a sumptuous, magical score. If you find yourself in Toronto this summer, make sure you add this ballet to your must-see list.
- San Francisco Ballet : "Giselle." There are times when the best classics remain the most moving. With such talented artists in this performance at the San Francisco Ballet, youâll experience the captivating drama of "Giselle" through the heartbreaking, elegant and moving dance movements
- Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: "Revelations". It would be a sin to miss out on this masterpiece, which embodies the power, emotion, and joy that are the hallmarks of this groundbreaking dance company. Prepare to be mesmerized!
- English National Ballet: "Swan Lake." This ballet is always a great treat, offering spectacular spectacle and exceptional artistry. Whatâs remarkable this year, darling, is the superb talent of Tamara Rojo, so expressive in her portrayal of Odette/Odile. Be ready to be captivated!
- Boston Ballet: "La Sylphide". This enchanting work with a haunting, almost ethereal, atmosphere, is beautifully staged at the Boston Ballet. Its choreography and the score are an extraordinary blend of ethereal grace and exquisite technique, something that all ballet lovers simply adore!
- Birmingham Royal Ballet: "The Nutcracker." The most beloved ballet of all. "The Nutcracker" returns to Birmingham Royal Ballet with all its customary splendor, but, to my joy, this year has been enhanced with a wonderful sense of energy in the production, from its magical costumes to its spirited performances.
- Royal Opera House, London: "The Dream". My darling, this show is for the bold, the extravagant, the imaginative! It features an extraordinary blend of modern and classical dance, plus opera, bringing you an impressive showcase of visual delights, captivating stories, and brilliant artistic talent. What a marvelous combination of sophistication, splendor and fun!
- Sadlerâs Wells Theatre, London: "In the Shadow of the Wind" . Thereâs nothing quite like a performance with emotional power to take your breath away, dear. At Sadlerâs Wells Theatre, this dance performance is a beautiful mix of the dramatic, with a deep emotionality which moves, touches, and ultimately, inspires you.
Stay Stylish, my darlings!