AI Ballet Review 386

The June Arabesque

Darling, I’m simply *thrilled* to bring you my take on the world of ballet this month, bursting with premieres, reinterpretations and pure, breathtaking talent!

There’s something for every taste, my lovelies! If you’re a fan of classic Giselle (and who isn’t?), there are three productions worthy of your adoration: The Bolshoi are, as always, absolutely breathtaking in their production. Their Giselles – **Viktoria Tereshkina** and **Svetlana Zakharova** are divine, with such tragic, yet ethereal beauty. Then, in London, the Royal Ballet's **Darcey Bussell** brings a new light to the role, making Giselle both strong and vulnerable, truly the woman of the moment. Oh, and we cannot forget **Sylvie Guillem** at the Palais Garnier in Paris, she makes every performance an exquisite ballet masterpiece, her portrayal a heartbreaker!

However, if you're looking for something truly bold and utterly *modern*, let me tell you about my latest obsession: William Forsythe. His new creation, **"Sider"** is, *darling*, nothing short of revolutionary. Performed by the glorious dancers of Nederlands Dans Theater, it’s pure, raw energy, a captivating dance experience.

But hold your diamante tiaras! The Royal Opera House is throwing an incredible dance party! The New York City Ballet, under the captivating direction of the divine **Peter Martins** have come all the way to London to show us what real **"American Ballet"** is all about! Their ballets are vibrant, lively, and full of joie de vivre - the perfect antidote to a dreary English June.

Of course, darling, the Bolshoi’s repertoire wouldn't be complete without the majestic *Swan Lake*, and their interpretation of this eternal classic never fails to enchant. The sheer power of **Nina Kaptsova's** Odette and Odile performance is absolutely *magnetic*.

But if *dark* is your pleasure, you must run, not walk, to the Royal Opera House for **Matthew Bourne’s "Swan Lake"**. Oh darling, this interpretation is *breathtaking* – the male dancers in their exquisite swan costumes are simply phenomenal, it's a truly electrifying and thought-provoking performance.

Back in my homeland of Paris, the Théâtre du Châtelet was abuzz with anticipation for the return of **Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater**. This legendary company is, as always, phenomenal! I was simply *spellbound* by their energetic and intensely emotional performances. The *precision* and *passion* of these dancers are simply unparalleled! They remind me so much of my youth, full of promise and ambition. Dance-Inspired Designs

Now, my dearest lovelies, if you wish to make a statement and dress with an artistic flair, this season is simply overflowing with fashion delights! Think dramatic fabrics that flutter and flow, a symphony of movement mirroring our graceful balletic postures! *The silhouette is key! * Think swirling dresses inspired by tutus – *such grace and femininity! * But my personal favorite is a stunningly tailored jumpsuit. Think of those lines as a dancer’s arabesque, elongating and accentuating the body’s beauty! And my darling, remember! We need something to match those fierce movements, a ballet slipper is *the* ultimate statement for your wardrobe – whether you prefer the elegant pointed suede, or something bold and playful!

For those who prefer a more *refined touch*, **Coco Chanel’s latest collection** is the absolute perfection in couture. Inspired by the fluid movements of ballet, each design feels incredibly wearable, effortlessly elegant, yet powerful! It’s *the perfect expression of our ballet world,* so very stylish and classic, oh darling, I simply *must* have that shimmering black gown! And the new “Swan Lake” perfume by Chanel, *ah* such an exquisite scent, it evokes the grace and poise of ballerinas dancing in the moonlight, *perfect for your evening engagements* darling. On the Canvas: Art Meets Dance

Art has been a source of inspiration in ballet since its inception, and that’s just what **John Currin’s** work is all about. At the Guggenheim, his **retro-chic paintings** evoke both an admiration for the beauty of the human form, while creating a truly artistic tension, something I love. And there are just so many other **talented artists** showcasing their work inspired by the graceful elegance of dance. But darling, there’s no "perfect dance" – it is a constant *journey of exploration* and we dancers are always in motion, evolving and inspiring!** London The Royal Ballet

The Royal Ballet have certainly put London on the world’s dance map, their performances a constant highlight. This June, however, the ballet world truly went into meltdown for the arrival of **Rudolf Nureyev** and **Mikhail Baryshnikov** , those *legends* of ballet history! Oh darling, we had to see them for ourselves - dancing! Nureyev and Baryshnikov were so much more than just "famous" dancers. They are two artists who changed the perception of ballet. They opened the world of classical ballet to modern audiences – something truly remarkable!

Now, it’s not only the “big name” productions that capture the hearts of ballet aficionados. There’s also the pure talent and charisma of up-and-coming stars, and London, my dears, is *swarming with it*. We absolutely *adore* the vibrant new **Ashley Page** , she is truly captivating. We cannot help but watch as she shines brighter with every performance – truly one of those *special* dancers. Dance as a Political Force

But ballet is about so much more than simply artistic excellence, darling, it is a vehicle for powerful messages, a reflection of society! There have been many dancers and choreographers who have used their platform to talk about *real life issues* that need to be heard!

There's the poignant performance by the **Northern Ballet**. In **“The Unfolding ,” ** we have a truly remarkable depiction of the emotional journeys of *real people* and this is what brings ballet back to the *core*. I am captivated by its honest engagement with human complexities – its beauty lies in the raw, powerful emotional reality of human life. A Time for Change

But even for such iconic figures, nothing lasts forever, darling. This month has also seen some heartbreaking farewells, from the likes of the extraordinary **Sir Kenneth MacMillan** , the legendary choreographer and **William Trevelyan** who is stepping down from the Royal Ballet’s position of Artistic Director, handing the reins over to the captivating **Monica Mason**, who will undoubtedly lead this glorious company towards new and brilliant frontiers.

But let's not forget to say a massive "thank you" to William Trevelyan. His contribution to the Royal Ballet, my dear, has been nothing short of astounding. He nurtured incredible talent and elevated the entire ballet world! Paris

And now let’s take a whirlwind trip to Paris! The Paris Opera Ballet has also given us some spectacular shows, a combination of classicism and new approaches to the art of dance, a testament to the fact that ballet is anything but static! World of Inspiration

So darling, it’s obvious, ballet is more than just beautiful movements - it’s a form of *powerful storytelling,* a *mirror to our times.* As dancers, we are fortunate to have the stage as our canvas, but we are also **artists**, constantly looking for new forms of expression and evolving with the times, while simultaneously drawing upon history and legacy to make something new.

So put on your most flattering ballerina pink and step into the magic of this art form. **Get out there and immerse yourself!** The world of ballet waits with open arms, my dear.