Ballet Bonanza: November 2007
My darlings, the crisp autumn air is upon us, and with it, a flurry of dazzling balletic delights. This November, the world's dance stages are positively bursting with talent and creativity, leaving me, your ever-devoted correspondent, practically giddy with anticipation. So, grab a glass of something sparkling, slip on your favourite pair of ballet slippers (mine are the crimson satin Louboutins, naturally), and prepare to be whisked away on a whirlwind tour of the hottest balletic happenings.
A Royal Affair: The Royal Ballet's "The Winter's Tale"
The Royal Ballet, ever the purveyor of refined and captivating performances, recently unveiled their captivating interpretation of Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale". My dear, this is not your average ballet adaptation! Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, with his uncanny knack for weaving narratives into fluid and captivating movements, has created a truly original vision. The choreography is both powerful and evocative, the staging is nothing short of breathtaking, and the entire cast embodies the complexities and raw emotions of Shakespeare's timeless drama. I was particularly mesmerized by Marianela Nuñez's heartbreaking portrayal of Perdita, and Carlos Acosta's regal and conflicted King Leontes. I simply cannot recommend this production enough – it is a masterpiece, an experience that will stay with you long after the final curtain falls.
A Breathtaking "Swan Lake"
Over in Paris, the ballet world was treated to a dazzling new interpretation of "Swan Lake" at the Opéra National de Paris. This production, conceived by the celebrated choreographer, Angelin Preljocaj, is an electrifying and refreshingly modern take on this classic. While he has retained the traditional structure, Preljocaj imbues the ballet with his own unique style, adding a raw, almost feral energy to the choreography, while simultaneously emphasizing the romantic core of the story. His "black swans" were both sensual and fiercely independent, while the White Swan was imbued with an almost ethereal fragility. I must mention the spectacular costumes – imagine shimmering feathers in every shade of black and white, dancing under the magical Parisian lighting. The sheer artistry of it all left me speechless, and the standing ovation at the end was richly deserved.
From Russia With Love
No trip to the ballet world this season is complete without venturing to Russia. It was my great privilege to witness the Bolshoi Ballet's breathtaking rendition of "Giselle". This ballet is synonymous with ballet tradition, and the Bolshoi's version certainly did not disappoint. Each element was perfection - the majestic costumes, the haunting score, and, of course, the flawless technique of the dancers. Svetlana Zakharova was mesmerizing as Giselle, her portrayal of both innocent youth and tragic fate, deeply moving. The male lead, Nikolai Tsiskaridze, brought both power and vulnerability to Albrecht, captivating the audience with every step. To say that the entire theatre erupted in applause would be an understatement.
Contemporary Conquests
While classic ballets continue to enthrall, the contemporary dance scene is ablaze with thrilling creativity. Here are a few must-see performances:
- "The Rite of Spring" at New York City Ballet - This bold reimagining by Alexei Ratmansky is simply breathtaking. He has stripped away the traditional, revealing a primal energy that is both electrifying and haunting.
- "Woolf Works" by Wayne McGregor at The Royal Ballet - This deeply moving piece, based on the works of Virginia Woolf, is a stunning feat of choreography. It explores themes of love, loss, and mental illness with incredible honesty and grace. The intricate lighting and costumes, paired with a pulsating score, create a mesmerizing experience.
- "The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude" at Nederlands Dans Theater - For a glimpse into the cutting edge of contemporary dance, look no further than this Dutch troupe. Their productions are always innovative and thought-provoking. In "The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude" we see their signature use of space and structure in full force, resulting in an intense and mesmerizing performance.
Emerging Stars to Watch
I simply must share a few whispers about rising stars lighting up the ballet world this season.
- Misty Copeland - My darlings, this phenomenal dancer has simply blown everyone away. She's not only the first African-American female principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre, but also a truly inspirational talent. Her effortless grace and powerhouse technique make her a must-see on any stage.
- Sergei Polunin - This captivating dancer's name has been buzzing on the circuit. His athleticism is breathtaking, but it's his intensity and raw emotion that truly make him unique. Watch out for him – this young man is going places!
- Jillian Murphy - This Irish dancer is a vision of elegance and fluidity. She's not only a master of the classical repertoire, but also showcases exceptional skill in contemporary works. Look out for her next performance - you won't be disappointed!
A Glimpse Beyond the Stage: Balletic Books and Films
There is, of course, more to the balletic world than simply the live performance. This November, let's step back and explore a couple of delightful discoveries.
- "The Autobiography of Rudolf Nureyev" - My darling, you've likely heard the legend of this tempestuous dancer. His autobiography is a truly fascinating read, giving us a peek into his triumphs, his heartbreaks, and the incredible life that was his.
- "The Red Shoes" - This iconic film, released in 1948, continues to captivate audiences with its stunning visuals, emotional drama, and of course, the legendary dance sequence featuring Moira Shearer. This cinematic jewel serves as a timeless tribute to the artistry and passion of ballet.
A Final Flourish
My dears, there you have it. The balletic scene is truly bursting with talent and innovation. It's a captivating time for dance, with so much to explore and to revel in. Remember to dress accordingly, embrace the elegance, and allow yourself to be swept away by the magic of movement.
And lastly, my dears, always remember: a touch of lipstick, a flick of the wrist, and a pair of chic ballet shoes - these are the true tools for appreciating the dance. Until next month, happy pirouettes!