The Dance Scene: March 2021
Darling, the world might still be a little unsteady on its feet, but ballet is back with a flourish, and the global dance scene is positively blooming! The spring air is electric with anticipation as companies shake off the winter cobwebs and present us with new works, thrilling revivals and those tried-and-true classics we adore. So, let's don our most chic ballet flats, grab a glass of something sparkling, and take a spin around the globe, shall we?
London: A Celebration of Choreography
My, oh my, what a feast for the senses! The Royal Ballet at Covent Garden is a whirlwind of artistic innovation, offering a dazzling spectrum of contemporary masterpieces that would leave even the most jaded dance aficionado speechless. Firstly, we must absolutely sing the praises of Wayne McGregor. His latest offering, a playful and surprisingly poignant exploration of humanity's yearning for connection, is a marvel of fluid movement and heart-wrenching beauty. The ensemble work is simply exquisite, with dancers weaving through space like ethereal creatures, their bodies conveying emotions with a rawness that leaves you breathless.
Another standout piece was the vibrant and infectiously energetic "Dust" by Alexander Ekman. This joyous riot of movement and colour takes the traditional ballet language and shakes it up with bold, contemporary flair. The humour is subtle, the music deliciously infectious, and the costumes - a playful mix of playful colour and textures - are pure genius. Ekman has this amazing knack for injecting his pieces with an infectious, youthful energy that is captivating from the first note to the final flourish. A must-see for anyone wanting to witness ballet's ability to ignite pure joy.
Speaking of joy, the Royal Opera House also hosted "The Greatest Show" - a joyous celebration of the art of dance with some of the most accomplished dancers on the planet. With a program designed to leave you exhilarated and brimming with wonder, it truly is a perfect showcase of why dance, in all its magnificent forms, holds a unique space in our cultural heart.
Paris: The Paris Opera Ballet: An Air of Grandeur
A trip to Paris wouldn't be complete without an evening at the Opera Garnier, now would it? The iconic opera house was buzzing with anticipation for the premiere of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," the iconic Prokofiev masterpiece set to magical music. The Parisian troupe, a force of nature known for their classical finesse and impeccable technique, truly made the ballet come alive with exquisite details, both large and small. Watching them dance, one can almost feel the magic of the forest enveloping them.
What I especially admired about the performance was the way the dancers captured the essence of Shakespeare's enduring story. From the tender moments of budding love between Helena and Demetrius to the whimsical shenanigans of the mischievous fairies, the nuances of human emotion were perfectly captured, adding a new layer of depth to the ballet.
New York: Dance at the Met: Bold and Vibrant
Darling, New York's dance scene never fails to impress with its eclectic mix of innovation and tradition. At the Metropolitan Opera House, the New York City Ballet presented "Balanchine for Balanchine" - a curated program dedicated to the genius of the legendary George Balanchine. The selection featured works spanning the master choreographer's career, offering an opportunity to truly understand his revolutionary impact on the evolution of ballet.
It was like stepping into a time machine. Witnessing these historical masterpieces, the groundbreaking techniques, and the masterful choreography - it's truly a ballet lover's dream! The NYCB dancers are known for their athleticism and precision, making the nuances of Balanchine's work come to life with an almost visceral impact.
Across the city at the Joyce Theatre, the acclaimed company, The Martha Graham Dance Company, mesmerised audiences with a new production of Graham's masterpiece, "Appalachian Spring." It is a captivating depiction of life and love in rural America. Each step, every gesture speaks volumes, weaving a tale of resilience, community and the unyielding spirit of human connection.
Moscow: Bolshoi Ballet - An Eternal Classic
If you're longing for the grand tradition of Russian ballet, a trip to Moscow is a must. At the magnificent Bolshoi Theatre, we are transported to a world of elegant opulence. This world-renowned company delivered an unforgettable rendition of the "Swan Lake" masterpiece.
Watching this production is almost a spiritual experience. The ballerina's effortless grace as she transitions between the innocent innocence of the White Swan and the brooding drama of the Black Swan is something truly unforgettable. The technical virtuosity of the entire company, paired with their palpable passion for the art, creates a sense of grandeur and breathtaking artistry that transcends mere performance, transforming it into an almost holy ritual.
A special highlight was seeing a young prima ballerina take on the lead role. Her radiant talent and raw passion left the audience speechless. It is a reminder of the enduring power of classical ballet and the ability of fresh, young talent to illuminate a time-honored tradition.
Beyond the Big Names: Exploring the Dance World
While the big-name ballet companies rightfully draw attention, the world of dance holds so much more! From small studios in bustling metropolises to intimate performances in sleepy towns, countless choreographers and dancers are carving their own unique path in the world of ballet. It's exhilarating to discover talented dancers who are pushing boundaries, challenging conventions, and redefining what ballet can be. Some of the most interesting and truly engaging work often emerges from the fringes, defying expectations and illuminating new avenues for dance.
From intimate performances in independent dance studios, where talented young dancers hone their craft with raw passion and unwavering dedication, to emerging companies across the globe challenging established norms with experimental and captivating work, we see an exciting new wave of talent pushing the boundaries of what ballet can be.
And Don't Forget: The Little Jewels
As an astute and fashionable dance connoisseur, my dears, we mustn't overlook the sheer delights of dance films, documentaries and performance pieces capturing the beauty and raw emotion of the art. Films like "Dance Me Through Life," a stunning portrayal of the triumphs and tribulations of dancers striving for their dream, offers an insightful peek into the lives of those dedicated to their craft. Documentaries such as "The Bolshoi Ballet: The Legend" are compelling insights into the rich history and traditions of the most esteemed dance companies. A fascinating exploration of the art, and often captivating, behind the scenes drama.
The Future of Dance
As we emerge from this challenging era, ballet, a true symbol of human resilience and expression, is poised for a powerful renaissance. There is a hunger for art, a thirst for beauty, a yearning for connection. Dance, in its diverse forms, offers an avenue to embrace this hunger. And the dance world, ever-evolving and incredibly diverse, is ready to answer this call. It is a future brimming with talent, imagination and an unflinching dedication to artistic expression.
So darling, grab your most fabulous outfit, book your tickets, and immerse yourself in the glorious world of dance. After all, as Coco Chanel so aptly said, “Dress shabbily, and they remember the dress; dress impeccably, and they remember the woman.” But dance, dear readers, is something truly unique – a captivating art that resonates long after the curtains close, leaving an indelible mark on the soul.