AI Ballet Fashion Review 660

A Month in the Ballet World: May 2012 Darling, it’s been another whirlwind month in the ballet world, a kaleidoscope of tutus and tiaras, athleticism and artistry, enough to turn even the most jaded ballet aficionado’s head. From the grandeur of the Bolshoi to the intimate elegance of smaller productions, here’s a glimpse of what sent me into a tizzy this May. The Bolshoi’s Return The whispers, darling, they were everywhere. Had the Bolshoi found its footing after last year’s turmoil? Did the dancers have the same fire in their bellies, the same brilliance in their eyes? And, dear heavens, was there still a palpable frisson of excitement when those magnificent red velvet curtains rose? The answer, my loves, is a resounding yes! The Bolshoi’s **Giselle**, starring the dazzling Svetlana Zakharova, was nothing short of spectacular. Her portrayal of the innocent peasant girl, driven mad by love and betrayal, was simply heartbreaking. There was a palpable intensity to her every gesture, a fragility masked by a sheer determination that had the audience holding its breath. She was perfection itself, floating like a whisper through the choreography, yet powerful and resolute in her moments of despair. The male lead, David Hallberg, a real American darling with effortless grace, held his own admirably alongside the breathtaking Zakharova, his portrayal of a love torn between duty and desire exquisitely realised. The corps de ballet were simply magnificent, their every movement a testament to their rigorous training. The whole production was an intoxicating symphony of movement, colour, and drama, and reminded me, once again, why the Bolshoi is revered as one of the world’s greatest ballet companies. A Star is Born: Marianela Nunez The Royal Ballet, darling, it's a bit of a home away from home for me, you see. I could be forgiven for becoming slightly jaded, but that wasn't the case at this month's performance of **Manon**, with a certain Mariana Núñez. Oh my, darling, I am still feeling goosebumps! This woman, this dazzling star, simply ignited the stage. Her performance of Manon was so breathtaking, it literally took my breath away. There was a fire in her eyes, a raw energy in her movements, and such an effortless command of her technique that even seasoned dancers could learn a thing or two. Manon is not an easy role, let me tell you. It requires not just technical mastery but an emotional depth that is all too rare. Marianela brought it in spades. Her portrayal was moving and captivating, at once innocent and cunning, utterly bewitching. Small but Mighty And speaking of captivating performances, my dear, a small company stole my heart this month. **Northern Ballet** in **The Little Mermaid** brought such beauty to the stage. It is remarkable to witness the raw talent of such a small ensemble, each dancer showcasing their unique skill set. The music, a blend of Debussy and Britten, provided an atmosphere of gentle wonder, perfectly complementing the magical storyline. I've always been partial to a good story ballet, and this truly captured the spirit of the classic fairytale. The costumes, vibrant and whimsical, gave me that childlike joy that the ballet should always evoke. You see, my loves, sometimes it's the small, independent companies that truly leave a mark. A Trip to the Orient I have a thing for the orient, as you all know, so a trip to see **The National Ballet of China** was a must. I was captivated by their production of **The Butterfly Lovers**, a Chinese legend told with stunning grace. Their technical proficiency was flawless, the leaps and turns effortless, yet it was the emotion and passion in the dancing that truly drew me in. I felt the anguish, the longing, the joyous celebration of love, each step echoing the depth of their ancient culture. The stage was awash in rich colors and intricate costumes, like a painting brought to life, a visual feast. But more than anything, what captivated me was the story, a simple but profound testament to the power of love. Ballet Beyond the Stage This month, I also got the chance to witness the magic of ballet behind the scenes, a truly humbling experience. The **Royal Ballet School**, where many a future star finds their wings, opened its doors to the public for a fundraising gala. It was a rare glimpse into the tireless dedication and raw passion of these budding young dancers, all brimming with talent and youthful enthusiasm. The future of ballet, darling, is definitely in safe hands. The gala performance, an eclectic mix of contemporary and classic, showcased a range of styles, each one highlighting the exceptional skills of these young talents. My Favourites This Month - "Giselle" - The Bolshoi Ballet (Moscow) - "Manon" - The Royal Ballet (London) - "The Little Mermaid" - Northern Ballet (Leeds) - "The Butterfly Lovers" - The National Ballet of China (Beijing) And there you have it, my dears, a taste of May’s balletic delights. A whirlwind of passion, grace, and beauty, it was a reminder why the ballet holds a special place in my heart, and why I’ll continue to be forever captivated by its timeless allure.