From Paris to Moscow, with a Little Stop in Sydney: July’s Dazzling Ballet Landscape
Ah, July. The sun is scorching, the days stretch endlessly long, and the world's finest ballerinas are twirling across stages, leaving audiences breathless and longing for more. This month, I've been flitting about like a mischievous butterfly, taking in a veritable feast of ballet brilliance, from the neoclassical artistry of the Paris Opera Ballet to the electrifying power of the Bolshoi Theatre. But darling, don’t think for a moment that I've forgotten the delights Down Under, where the Australian Ballet held its own against the giants, offering a sublime summer offering.
A Parisian Rhapsody
Paris, of course, always holds a special place in my heart. The Opéra Garnier is a cathedral of artistry, its gilded walls reflecting the grandeur of the city itself. And the Paris Opera Ballet, under the direction of the incomparable Brigitte Lefèvre, continues to be a powerhouse of talent. In July, I was completely mesmerised by their interpretation of Giselle, a classic that, despite its familiar choreography, never ceases to captivate. The lead roles, danced by the ethereal Agnès Letestu and the statuesque Benjamin Millepied, were truly something to behold. Letestu’s fragile yet resilient Giselle, with its delicate pointe work and heart-wrenching emotional depth, left me teary-eyed. And Millepied, a true prince charming, showcased his commanding presence and astonishing athleticism, delivering a performance of both technical prowess and poignant expression. The Paris Opera Ballet, even with such formidable stars, continues to nourish its young talents. The corps de ballet, with its meticulously unified movements, served as a testament to Lefèvre's discerning eye, making this Giselle, for me at least, one of the finest I've seen in recent times.
Bolshoi’s Thunderous Majesty
From the gilded grandeur of Paris, I made a whirlwind journey to the stark beauty of Moscow, home to the Bolshoi Theatre. It’s hard not to feel overwhelmed by the sheer grandeur of this iconic building. The Bolshoi itself feels like a grand opera set – a testament to Russia's love affair with art and theatre. And the Bolshoi’s dancers are just as legendary. In July, I was lucky enough to see the Don Quixote, and it was nothing short of exhilarating. It is a spectacle where technical brilliance meets sheer joie de vivre. Svetlana Zakharova, with her powerful jumps and elegant extensions, was simply spellbinding. And the dashing Denis Rodkin, partnering her so seamlessly, embodied the romantic idealism of a knight errant. The corps de ballet, particularly the vivacious and spirited women, seemed to whirl on air. In a world obsessed with minimalist expression, it’s heartening to experience the kind of untamed exuberance the Bolshoi offers. Don Quixote is pure spectacle, unapologetic in its grandiosity, and utterly irresistible.
Australia’s Rising Stars
From the heart of Europe to the sunshine of Australia. In a world where many assume only the grand Parisian and Russian ballet houses can create stellar productions, it’s wonderful to find such brilliant dancing taking place on a different continent. I found the Australian Ballet, particularly the young company, a truly enchanting and promising ensemble. Their program in July was a vibrant mixture of styles: the poignant intimacy of In the Middle Somewhat Elevated (a stark yet captivating piece with an intriguing score and powerful, energetic dancers), followed by the whimsical whimsy of Christopher Wheeldon’s The American, a beautifully staged, delightful offering that showcases the charm of Wheeldon's masterful choreographic talent. It is always a joy to see the energy of the young Australians on stage, and they are a real force to be reckoned with. I particularly enjoyed the dazzling technique of the young ballerinas. Their performances had a genuine freshness and enthusiasm that's truly infectious, and they seemed to be enjoying every moment. I am certainly keeping my eye on these stars.
Ballet Beyond the Stage
Ballet isn’t just about performances, darlings. The entire world of ballet has a magic, even outside the grand theatres. In July, I took a foray into the smaller studios of London, seeking out the vibrant underbelly of the dance scene. I wandered into a ballet school, where students, young and old, practiced tirelessly. It was both moving and inspiring to see the dedication and commitment, the pure passion that burned within these students. From the tiny tutus of the tiniest of ballerinas, to the lithe figures of young women stretching towards the heavens, their dreams and their future possibilities were writ large in their every movement. Ballet is not just a profession or a spectacle; it is a language. And in this small school, I felt that language being spoken, understood, and honed.
A Month of Enchantment
July was, as ever, a thrilling and inspiring journey through the world of ballet. It is a testament to the enduring magic of this art form: the stories that unfold before us, the beauty of the human body in motion, the music that sweeps us away. From the grand opera houses to the intimate studios, ballet captivates and enchants, reminding us of the beauty that surrounds us and the human spirit that inspires us.
Five Ballet Looks to Elevate Your Summer
- **Chic Ballerina:** Channel the Parisian chic with a sleek black jumpsuit adorned with delicate lace detailing. Add a touch of elegance with a statement belt, a silver necklace, and comfortable ballet flats. This is effortless style with a touch of sophistication.
- **Summer Whimsy:** Embrace a sense of fun with a playful floral dress in a light and airy fabric. Choose one with a swinging silhouette or a fitted waist for a touch of femininity. Add a pop of colour with a bright straw hat and some stylish sandals for a vibrant look.
- **Art Deco Darling:** For a vintage vibe, choose a sleeveless, midi dress in a rich jewel tone. A cinched waist and delicate pleating create a stunning silhouette. Finish with silver jewellery, a bold lip, and high-heeled strappy sandals for a timeless elegance.
- **Romantic Rhapsody:** Opt for a flowing white gown with detailed embroidery and an ethereal charm. Layer a sheer scarf or a light cardigan for a touch of drama. Softly-hued sandals will complete this beautiful look for a dreamy evening out.
- **Modern Minimalism:** A chic and timeless outfit. Embrace a simple white or black shift dress with a classic shape. For a bold touch, add a chunky statement necklace and black, knee-high boots. This look is for those who appreciate elegance and understated luxury.