March 2020
Ballet Buzz
My dears, can you believe it's March already? The days are getting longer, the daffodils are peeking out, and we are positively bursting with excitement for all the divine dance offerings this month brings. From the ethereal heights of Bolshoi to the cutting-edge choreography of Nederlands Dans Theater, we've got the pulse of the ballet world, ready to share all the whispers, the thrills and, of course, the haute couture, so do sit back with your glass of something bubbly and let's delve into this dazzling ballet banquet.
A Night at the Bolshoi
Darlings, if you haven't had the pleasure of experiencing a Bolshoi production, you are simply missing out on the quintessential ballet experience. This month, they presented their much-loved Swan Lake, and oh, darling, the production was pure magic! The soaring score, the grandeur of the sets, and the unparalleled technical brilliance of the dancers— it was enough to send any ballet enthusiast into a swoon. Anna Nikulina as Odette/Odile simply stole the show. Her portrayal of both swan and temptress was both delicate and deliciously wicked, while the Prince, Vladimir Shklyarov, was a true romantic hero. One could almost smell the scent of fresh roses and the tang of the nearby lake during the haunting 'Dance of the Dying Swans.' My favourite detail? The glittering diadems of the swans were the perfect touch of shimmer and sophistication.
A Whirlwind of Contemporary Choreography at NDT
If you're yearning for something a little less traditional, darlings, then the Netherlands Dans Theater has just the prescription. Their current program features three daring new works, and I simply must tell you about 'Elixir,' by Crystal Pite, the visionary choreographer who just can't seem to do any wrong. Set to an original score by Owen Pallett, it's a masterpiece of stark beauty and athleticism, a tour de force of movement, a whirlwind of energy and, oh, so edgy! With the lighting design, we’re taken through the full spectrum of emotion. We've never seen dance so captivatingly physical and psychologically potent. It's enough to make you forget all about those tutu's!
Royal Ballet: A Timeless Tale
Across the pond, our dear Royal Ballet has returned to one of their perennial favourites: 'Giselle.' There was, of course, the divine Natalia Osipova, always a feast for the eyes, as Giselle. The technical mastery of her every step was quite simply phenomenal! The heartbreak she portrays is both moving and poignant. But let’s be honest, we’re all a little jealous of her ethereal beauty. But for me, the standout moment was the hauntingly beautiful pas de deux between the Prince and the Wilis. A magical experience and quite possibly the best pas de deux we've seen in a very long time!
Royal Opera House, Covent Garden: 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'
Oh, a true theatrical delight. The Royal Ballet's ‘A Midsummer Night's Dream’ is everything a whimsical, magical night out should be, darling! A treat for the eyes and ears. I was mesmerised by the lavish costumes and the perfectly crafted sets, all bathed in the magical light of the Royal Opera House. This ballet is pure enchantment from start to finish, from the charming fairies to the blundering mortals. And who could resist those absolutely divine ‘Peaches’ costumes worn by the Titania corps, a dash of frothy colour against the darkness of the forest? The highlight, without doubt, was the Puck, danced with incredible energy by the extraordinary Eric Underwood. I couldn't resist applauding through the entire performance. Darling, if you need a night of magic and whimsy, then book your tickets to this wonderful ballet, you won't regret it.
Beyond the Ballet
But darling, the dance world is about more than just ballet. So while you're soaking up the beautiful dancers, make sure to check out what else is going on. We’ve got a hot tip: check out the stunning performance art being displayed in Berlin at the KW Institute. You can't deny this has an element of performance art - it’s both breathtakingly provocative and beautifully curated. They’re truly pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Absolutely revolutionary! We're expecting great things from this next generation.
Upcoming Events
If you’re looking ahead, darling, then mark your calendars! We can hardly contain ourselves, with a truly exciting dance schedule already mapped out: The New York City Ballet’s Spring season has some thrilling offerings in store, and our ears are already itching to hear the new Stravinsky compositions set to music for their production of ‘The Rite of Spring’ (how exciting!). In April, don’t forget about the Paris Opera Ballet – with 'The Sleeping Beauty' returning to the stage.
Now darlings, it's time for me to rush off, I have a very special afternoon planned, a couture fitting for the grand opening of a new ballet school. We are beyond thrilled about this project. But before I go, one last thought… this world is filled with beauty and grace, from the perfectly poised posture of a ballerina to the soaring architecture of an opera house, just remember to look closely and see it all!