Darling, the first of January, 1998! It was simply divine to see how the world of ballet kicked off this year, the start of something new and exciting, like the twirl of a prima ballerina. I have a feeling this year is going to be absolutely smashing, and you simply must, positively *must* get yourselves down to a performance, darling. If you want to talk about sartorial elegance, the only place to be is the theatre!
The Royal Ballet has started the year in dazzling form, with their iconic production of The Nutcracker. I simply adored the choreography of Peter Wright and the sumptuous costumes. Let's talk about those tutus, darlings. I positively swooned over the frothy tulle, they simply billowed and danced with each pirouette. The candy cane colour palette was pure perfection, with sugary pinks and minty greens, a dream to watch from the front row.
The London Coliseum is another absolute haven for ballet devotees. This January saw the exquisite Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet, they're giving the classics a fresh and vibrant twist with their production of Swan Lake, and you know what they say darling, ‘Swan Lake’ is *always* the perfect way to start the year, as fresh and pure as the first snowfall. There were some exceptionally gifted dancers, who just glided through the iconic steps with the most divine grace, especially their breathtaking black swan pas de deux, simply ravishing!
Speaking of swans, let's give a shout out to our international dance darlings. I hear whispers about a new swan queen emerging in Paris, this Margot Fonteyn protégé, simply divine, her grace is absolutely captivating and I have it on good authority her black swan, the evil one darling, is a must see! If you happen to find yourselves in the City of Lights this season, darling, you must catch the show.
Of course, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the exquisite costumes! Tutus have always held a place of honour in the world of ballet, darling. Imagine, the fluffy, ethereal layers of tulle dancing in the spotlight, an embodiment of both fragility and strength! Those black swans were positively breathtaking in their exquisite black feather costumes, absolutely ravishing. Every dancer, a moving sculpture, wrapped in exquisite and theatrical layers that complement every movement. Honestly darling, if you’re a lover of fashion, a ballet performance is *the* ultimate style statement!
Now, to talk about what’s absolutely trending in ballet for the coming year:
- **Neo-Classical:** Oh darling, neoclassical ballet is the *absolute* rage. A gorgeous, athletic style of ballet that truly highlights the dancers, their strength and their individuality. I’m sure you've heard of William Forsythe, darling, a veritable maestro of the neo-classical ballet, his choreography is *beyond* elegant.
- **Modern Expression:** I positively love modern expressionist ballet, so wonderfully dramatic. They often use a mixture of ballet techniques, but also with a huge dose of expressive, theatrical moves, truly thrilling. It’s certainly not a look for the faint of heart. Imagine, angular and emotive movements against stark and dark backdrops, the contrast is truly sensational!
- **Minimalist Design:** Less is most definitely *more*, and minimalist tutus are the darling of the ballet scene right now, perfectly showcasing the form of the dancer's body in flowing silhouettes. It’s sleek, modern, and absolutely sensational. The use of a simpler colour palette, a stark white for instance, allows the beauty of the dancer's movements to be the star of the show, no clutter darling, no distracting embellishment. Simply captivating.
Now that we’re entering a new millennium, darling, I’m sure the world of ballet will keep innovating. The spirit of ballet, its ethereal grace, its captivating costumes, and of course, the iconic tutus, are here to stay. Let's all revel in this divine art form for many years to come! Happy New Year!