Tutu and Ballet News

## A Symphony of Steps: A news review of Ballet Music – 07 February 2007 Darling readers, Today, February 7th, 2007, the air crackles with the exquisite thrill of ballet music! We’re all swept away by the breathtaking artistry, the raw passion and emotion that this music evokes. Oh, darling, I simply *must* share my musings, my absolute darling delights! **A Balletic Tapestry of Sound:** First, let’s discuss the ballet music news that’s set the world aflutter! In the world of ballet, there’s this beautiful dance called "La Sylphide," this magical, airy dream of a ballet that tells the story of a mischievous forest nymph and her human lover, oh darling, the story’s so romantic! It’s like watching a tender whisper unfold on the stage, a delicate, elegant story told through music and movement. This year marks the 175th anniversary of the debut of the ballet, a remarkable milestone. Now, I couldn’t be more thrilled! "La Sylphide" premiered on March 12th, 1832, in Paris, France, and its music, composed by the incredibly talented Jean Schneitzhoeffer, is a sheer symphony of elegance, like an embroidered silken shawl. It truly captivates the senses. The Royal Ballet's Tribute to “La Sylphide” : Here in the UK, The Royal Ballet has created a grand, elegant production in tribute to this beautiful ballet's anniversary, and it truly is an awe-inspiring display. It opens with a stunning and beautifully detailed presentation of this original work in all its delicate glory. **The New Music for "La Sylphide":** Then, there’s this extraordinary twist - a world premiere! The Royal Ballet's Artistic Director, Monica Mason, partnered with this absolutely brilliant composer, Joby Talbot, who's been inspired by "La Sylphide" to craft his own modern ballet. They’ve also enlisted the expertise of this breathtaking choreographer, Wayne McGregor, known for his fresh, daring style! And to celebrate, there are three captivating performances! McGregor has crafted this extraordinary choreography which adds new dimensions to this classic story of ethereal, passionate love, it's an ethereal dance between worlds. Ballet Music News – Beyond the “La Sylphide” celebrations!** My darling readers, ballet music doesn't just mean "La Sylphide", no! It's about so much more! The English National Ballet, that talented troupe of dancers, they're presenting a captivating ballet production that brings “Romeo and Juliet” to life. You all know the story, darling, the eternal tragedy of Romeo and Juliet. But this performance is something utterly unique, a fresh take on Shakespeare's classic with music that captures both the passion and the poignancy. **Beyond the UK: Our hearts have been aflutter with ballet news from San Francisco, the American Ballet Theatre is holding a premiere with Tchaikovsky’s breathtaking score! “The Sleeping Beauty,” that tale of enchanting dreams and a curse to be broken by true love! I’m in raptures over the new interpretation. The music, so evocative, makes each scene a kaleidoscope of emotions. Oh, it’s quite dazzling! The Ballet Musical Landscape: Of course, it’s not just the premieres! We can’t forget about the music that gives heart and soul to the classic ballet performances that have taken the world by storm. We've got the extraordinary, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The man’s genius in his music makes ballet transcend movement, becoming an expressive dance of emotions, he paints the stage with melodies. For “Swan Lake,” that haunting tale of a princess who’s cursed, his music brings it to life! Every heart beat, every delicate gesture, every graceful leap is set to the soul of his compositions. The magic of the music and the dancer's interpretation, together they weave this breathtaking, powerful performance. It’s enchanting! Then, you have Igor Stravinsky. He was known for his unique style of composition, like a whirlwind in the world of classical music, and for his contributions to ballet with his ballets like "The Rite of Spring." That bold work changed ballet, introduced a new dynamic and revolutionary musical form into the dance, making the audience look at ballet in a new, innovative light. **Musical Enchantment: ** Every movement, every pause, every flutter of a dancer’s graceful skirts and a leap that’s high, high, high…it's all perfectly underscored with the artistry of the composer’s skill. Ballet music takes us to a magical world. There is an aura about ballet music that moves the soul and makes you lose yourself. **Dancing and Fashion :** Let’s talk about the dancing and the exquisite fashion, shall we, the magnificent costumes, the vibrant colours and intricate designs? It’s an elegant collaboration, a love affair between art, beauty and grace, it's intoxicating! Imagine a stunning tutu, pink as the sunset, so perfect for a graceful pirouette. This stunning tutu calls for a leotard to match, made from shimmering, satin fabric that flows like the ripples in a lake, capturing every shimmer of light with an array of tiny rhinestones like celestial dust. It’s about creating a masterpiece that tells a story, making you want to dance through fields of blossoms in a swirling gown or make every single pirouette as you glide across a glistening stage. And the fashion is not just about the dancers, it’s about us, too. What can we wear when we go see this beautiful display of ballet! Imagine a flowy, silky dress, delicate colours that are reminiscent of the stage costumes, oh, it just evokes that magic! But for me, I just love the beauty of a classic tailored suit. There's just something about the power of a well-cut blazer and a fitted skirt. The perfect accessory, perhaps, would be a gorgeous, beaded necklace, with long pearls that cascade like a sparkling waterfall. And let’s not forget a handbag to match – sleek and sophisticated. This elegant ensemble is perfect for a night of ballet! And, if I am feeling particularly bold and adventurous, a bold red lipstick will add a dash of dramatic flair. But of course, the essence of this night at the ballet is always a perfect blend of grace, elegance and that exquisite style, my dear! **The Ballet’s Timeless Allure : ** Darling, I cannot express the sheer thrill that ballet music and dancing creates within me! It's more than a spectacle, it’s a dialogue between music, movement, emotion, beauty and dreams, and it takes you on a joyful journey into an world of pure, artistic elegance. I find that ballet can reawaken the imagination and make your spirit soar! And you, dear reader, are part of this extraordinary world! Remember the timeless allure of the graceful steps, the passion of the movement, the enchanting ballet music and those extravagant costumes, oh it all makes for an absolutely exquisite evening. I can only hope my words will bring you to a stage near you for an unforgettable evening at the ballet! Until next time, darlings, have a splendid day, full of elegance and grace!