Darling, October has arrived, and with it, a swirl of beautiful ballets and breathtaking art exhibitions. The crisp air has us yearning for romance, for grandeur, and for a touch of something ethereal. Oh, my loves, are we ready for a decadent feast for the senses?
I began my month at the **Royal Opera House** in Covent Garden, watching the exquisite **Tamara Rojo** in the **English National Ballet**'s production of **Giselle**. It was a masterpiece of heartache and hope, with Rojo's portrayal of the tragic heroine simply breathtaking. Her every gesture, every pirouette was pure poetry, her emotions resonating with a depth that was simply heartbreaking. Her delicate steps, the lightness of her leaps, and the graceful way she conveyed Gisele's heartbreak left the audience speechless.
Of course, the choreography by **Akram Khan** was truly stunning. His work is so modern, yet he still manages to retain the essence of the classic story. The **Corps de Ballet**, beautifully draped in billowing, misty costumes, perfectly conveyed the otherworldly presence of the Wilis, while **Marianela Nuñez** was just lovely as Myrtha, the queen of the Wilis. I simply adore how they make her character appear both graceful and slightly intimidating. I am already planning to see this production again in the Spring - you must put it on your list!
The following weekend I ventured across the channel, to the glorious city of Paris. I found myself captivated by a small production of **Le Sacre du Printemps** in the historic ThĂ©Ăątre du ChĂątelet. The **Ballets de l'OpĂ©ra National du Rhin** gave a haunting and emotionally charged performance. It's an intense ballet that stirs your soul and makes you want to just stand up and cheer - even if the story doesnât really exist.
After all this, I yearned for a bit of classic grandeur and escapism so I went to see the **Boston Ballet** perform **Swan Lake**. Iâll tell you this, the company was absolutely exquisite, but their **Odette** and **Odile** dancers left me a bit underwhelmed this time. The costumes were, however, the perfect shade of white with gorgeous details of sparkling rhinestones, making their performance completely charming in spite of their lackluster interpretations of the characters. Still, this production brought me such nostalgic joy as I sat back in the opulent theatre surrounded by elegant gowns and tuxedos. It's the kind of experience that takes you right back to your childhood, doesnât it?
The month concluded for me with a delightful visit to the **MoMA**. I had heard whispers of **Marina AbramoviÄâs** exhibit **âThe Artist is Presentâ** for weeks, and finally had the chance to see it. The power of her art lies not only in its sheer endurance, but in its willingness to expose a fundamental human need for connection and communication. Her captivating performance, an act of incredible resilience, stayed with me for days afterwards. I still find myself thinking of her work even now.
So darling, as you put your stilettos back on, grab your favorite shawl and step out into this chilly season. Explore the wonderful world of ballet, get lost in a piece of art that sets your soul on fire. Take time to reconnect with yourself and the world around you through the beauty of both ballet and the art world. I assure you, there are exciting times ahead!
Here is my list of upcoming shows and exhibitions to add to your list. Be sure to book tickets ahead as you wonât be the only one planning on being at these:
- Royal Ballet, London. In a collaboration with the English National Opera, the Royal Ballet are presenting their groundbreaking production of Peter Wrightâs "The Nutcracker." You must experience it! Their costumes and choreography make the Christmas story feel simply divine.
- New York City Ballet is giving their annual performance of the classical ballet **"The Sleeping Beauty"** at the Lincoln Center.
- National Gallery of Art, Washington DC is putting on the must-see show, âImpressionism: Painting in France 1860â1900â featuring some of the worldâs most breathtaking examples of Impressionist work.
- National Portrait Gallery, London has just opened the incredible exhibit, **âManet & Modern Beauty.â** Here you will see paintings like "Olympia," alongside beautiful, timeless portraits from the world's finest art institutions.
- Royal Ballet, Covent Garden, is showcasing an all new production of **"The Firebird."** Iâve been eagerly awaiting its premiere, after their exquisite opening night of "Giselle", and this production is set to become a timeless classic. I hear it's breathtaking!
- **âAlexander McQueen: Savage Beautyâ** exhibition in **New York - You must, absolutely MUST see it, darlings! Itâs a masterpiece. From its dazzling gowns to the dramatic presentation, Alexander McQueenâs work is truly captivating and something of a cultural phenomenon. Donât miss this chance to see it, as it's not often his incredible work is brought to life with such exquisite style!
- Ballets de l'Opéra de Lyon, France. I hear rumors of this new, mysterious show being added to their repertoire - an evening with Maurice Bejart's "Bolero." I am definitely going to try and catch this. It's sure to be a dance of raw passion, a bold exploration of sensuality and an extraordinary tribute to the music of Ravel.
This month offers us all such a captivating mix of artistry, passion, and culture, so dear reader, I leave you with a final bit of wisdom; never be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Whether it is in trying a new art form or venturing out to an unknown exhibit, you might find that a masterpiece awaits just beyond the corner. Don't be afraid to experiment and fall in love again with your world. Happy discovering, dear reader.
Love,
Annabelle