Darling, the season's just begun and already the world of ballet is positively bursting with excitement. There's so much to talk about, my darlings, so let's just dive right in, shall we?
Parisian Delights
The Palais Garnier has always been a temple to the sublime, but this season, it's been a veritable shrine to the goddess of elegance. Let's face it, darlings, no one can execute a perfectly balanced port de bras or a flawlessly sculpted arabesque like the French, can they? And it was in this hallowed hall that the incomparable Sylvie Guillem (yes, that Sylvie Guillem!) took to the stage in a breathtaking performance of Balanchine's "Symphony in C." Every arabesque was a study in refined movement, every tour a moment of sheer, effortless grace. I dare you to find another ballerina in the world who can pull off a fouette with such effortless poise! Her piqué was simply divine, an ethereal dance with the air, so effortless and ethereal, it truly took one's breath away. It was a night for the ages.
But, Paris has more than just Sylvie, you know! The Parisian Opera Ballet is teeming with talent, from the vibrant and spirited Marie-AgnÚs Gillot to the powerful and statuesque Dorothée Gilbert. Each a unique jewel in this glorious ballet firmament.
American Audaciousness
Across the Atlantic, the Americans are never ones to disappoint. New York's Lincoln Center is where you go for the bold, the unexpected, the daring! My favourite discovery this season was the Brooklyn Ballet, darlings. Now, I know what you're thinking â Brooklyn? Ballet? It doesnât exactly conjure up images of tutus and tiaras, does it? But oh my, this is a group that defies every preconception.
Imagine a "Swan Lake" like you've never seen it before! A breathtaking, almost raw, take on the classic ballet, their choreography was bold, daring, even slightly unsettling. The ballerina's movements felt at once familiar, yet new, evoking a feeling of strength and raw emotion. Their take on "Swan Lake," complete with edgy contemporary costumes and haunting music, was unforgettable.
But New York was also home to the return of Misty Copeland in American Ballet Theatre's "Giselle." Itâs a classic for a reason, darling! Her debut was met with rapturous applause, the entire theatre thrumming with the sheer energy of her presence. She truly is an iconic figure in the world of ballet and every performance is an inspiration. It was as if every drop of perspiration, every leap, every turn, held the very essence of ballet itself. This woman, she knows how to connect with an audience and it was evident that she truly poured her heart and soul into every step she took.
London's Luxurious Glamour
No trip to the London Coliseum is complete without catching a performance of the Royal Ballet, now under the direction of the ever-so-talented Kevin McAllister. You know, dear readers, he really does breathe new life into every production. But even before his arrival, The Royal Ballet always held a special place in my heart. Letâs face it, their refined style is something else entirely. From the stately grandeur of the corps de ballet to the dramatic presence of their principal dancers, there's something inherently classy about the Royal Ballet, like the quintessential British understatement with an added hint of sophistication, all wrapped up in a very stylish package! The production of âSwan Lakeâ earlier this year was divine. A masterful blend of classic elegance and modern expression. You could sense every dancer's commitment to perfection, and it really showed on the stage, like the final flourish on a beautifully crafted gown.
Speaking of perfection, letâs talk about the dancers. This season, my eyes were completely captivated by the dazzling Marianela Nunez (her precision and poise! I nearly fainted!), and the impossibly charming and charismatic Edward Watson. Heâs not only blessed with talent but with good looks to match! A true Romeo for the 21st century!
Around the Globe: A World of Ballet
Darling, we cannot forget the beautiful and breathtaking ballet scenes happening across the globe, beyond Paris, New York, and London.
- Tokyo's Innovative Fusion: The Ballet Theatre of Tokyo, oh so incredibly daring and innovative. Their unique take on classic ballet, seamlessly blending Japanese aesthetics and storytelling, created an electrifying performance! There was a rawness, an untamed spirit that took my breath away! I loved how they reinterpreted "Romeo and Juliet." A whirlwind of emotions. And then there were their contemporary pieces - truly pushing boundaries, celebrating not only the grace of ballet, but the power and emotion too. It was exhilarating.
- Buenos Aires: Tango's Fiery Passion: In Buenos Aires, you can almost feel the rhythm pulsating through the very air! Ballet here is vibrant, exuberant, a mirror of the fiery energy of the people. A perfect example is the Julio Boccaâs "Tango for Two," with its stunning visual elements and captivating story. It felt as though every dancer channeled the raw passion and beauty of tango itself!
- Moscow's Regal Elegance: And letâs not forget the Bolshoi Theatre, where history and artistic excellence meet, producing some of the finest ballerinas the world has ever seen. Their "Sleeping Beauty" simply took my breath away with the exquisite costumes, the elaborate set design, and those legendary ballet costumes (the tutu and the crowns!), oh darling! It was truly a sight to behold.
Fashionably Fierce
What's a review about ballet without talking about fashion, darling? The costumes, the makeup, the exquisite jewellery. Itâs truly a fashion spectacle, my lovelies!
I've got to say, the current fashion for tutus is fabulous. From the shimmering fabrics of The Bolshoi to the almost goth-like aesthetic of Brooklyn Ballet, itâs an exciting time for costume designers. And donât get me started on the jewels, my darlings! Ballet dancers truly are some of the best dressed performers on earth! Those diamond earrings on Svetlana Zakharova â they simply glowed on stage, donât you agree? You see, it's not just about dancing, darling, itâs about creating a story, a whole experience for the audience with every movement, with every costume! And this season's ballets certainly havenât disappointed on this front.
The Balletâs Eternal Allure
So there you have it, my lovelies. A quick glance at some of the hottest ballets around the world this season. As the year continues to unfurl, I simply cannot wait to see what the world of ballet will gift us with next! A whirlwind of artistry, drama, and romance - truly an enchanting experience! Oh darling, the world of ballet keeps you guessing, a continual thrill ride of exquisite performances! But as a ballet enthusiast, one thing is for certain, we are in the best of times!