AI Ballet Review 253

## A Dress Rehearsal: The Most Captivating Costumes of Spring 2017 Darlings! The season is in full bloom and so is the ballet world, a riot of color and ethereal grace. As we sashay into May, the spotlight falls not just on the ballerinas, but the dazzling costumes that bring their artistry to life. From the hushed elegance of the Bolshoi to the fiery passion of the Paris Opera, we've scoured the world's stages to find the most captivating creations. **Ballet: A Symphony of Silks and Sequins** This spring, we see a harmonious marriage of tradition and innovation in the world of ballet costumes. Think diaphanous tulle swirling with a contemporary edge, intricate embroidery whispers of a bygone era, and bold color pops against the timelessness of classic designs. **From Paris with Love:** The Paris Opera Ballet is synonymous with exquisite elegance. And this season, their costumes are more enchanting than ever! In "La Bayadère", the corps de ballet glided across the stage in dazzling white tutus, each adorned with shimmering sequins, their beauty a shimmering mirage under the spotlight. But it's in "Giselle" where the real drama unfolds. The sheer, ethereal fabric of Giselle's gown, clinging to her lithe body as she descends into madness, embodies the tragedy of love lost. **A Touch of Moscow Magic:** Over in the Bolshoi, the drama is of a different kind, fuelled by an understated sophistication. In "Swan Lake", Odette's ethereal white tutus with their delicately feathered edges embody innocence and purity. But the costume that truly captured my eye is Odile's seductive black swan tutu, a cascade of black feathers echoing the darker side of the tale. It's a triumph of bold artistry, embodying the dark heart of seduction. **Beyond the Western Stage:** And beyond Europe's hallowed stages, new voices are rising. The Shanghai Ballet in "The Dream of Red Mansions", captured the breathtaking grace of traditional Chinese culture in gowns adorned with exquisitely embroidered peonies and butterflies, their intricate detail echoing the story's rich symbolism. **A Glimpse of Contemporary Design:** The world of contemporary ballet is ablaze with vibrant experimentation, challenging conventions and redefining beauty. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's "Revelations", a celebration of African American culture, features costumes inspired by traditional garments, with rich fabrics, vibrant hues, and dynamic textures creating a dynamic, celebratory visual narrative. It's not about delicate tulle, but rather raw power expressed through garments that are as fluid as the movements they grace. **A Feast for the Eyes:** Each costume is a work of art, its beauty complementing the performance in ways that go beyond simple ornamentation. This season, a particular focus on intricate embroidery adds depth and dimension, as if a secret language whispered upon the fabric. **An Exquisite Symphony of Color** Beyond the black and white classics, spring brings a surge of color, celebrating life's exuberant spirit. In "La Sylphide", the ethereal, moss green shades of the sylph's dress, the embodiment of otherworldly enchantment, are a delight to behold. While in "Sleeping Beauty", Aurora's shimmering gowns, a vibrant dance between delicate pink, sapphire, and emerald green, are truly eye-catching. **A Nod to History, Yet Reimagined** We see classic designs being reinvented, not with drastic reinventions but with nuanced details that add fresh depth to timeless elegance. The "Swan Lake" white tutus have a slightly contemporary touch, a hint of softer curves replacing the rigid structure of old. And even in the midst of such modernity, the craftsmanship maintains the timeless quality, a respect for the art form's heritage, yet imbued with an undeniable sense of fresh energy. **Behind the Curtain** Let's take a peek behind the scenes! The creation of these magnificent costumes is a true art in itself. The intricate beading, hand-painted details, and painstaking craftsmanship deserve recognition. **But What About The Cost?** Speaking of craftsmanship, one can't overlook the financial realities of these masterpieces. Some costumes, especially those studded with Swarovski crystals, are reportedly worth hundreds of thousands of pounds! Such price tags raise questions about the ballet's future sustainability, especially as more organizations face budget constraints. **A Reflection of the Times** This year's costumes are more than mere adornments; they're reflections of the world around us. Contemporary costumes are challenging the traditional canon, with inclusivity at the forefront. From ethnic inspirations in costumes like "Revelations" to diverse casting choices in productions around the world, a refreshing openness and sensitivity towards representing all of humanity's diverse beauty has emerged. **Dress to Impress!** Now, my dear readers, take inspiration from this vibrant spring season! Step out in dazzling hues, embrace elegance, and own your style! Let your sartorial choices echo the spirit of this enchanting ballet season, where art, dance, and fashion merge into a magnificent spectacle that will stay with you long after the curtain falls.