Darling, it's a new year, and that means a fresh start for the ballet world! And trust me, with the flurry of premieres and revivals we're witnessing across the globe, there's a wealth of talent to tantalize our every whim! I must confess, I’ve spent the festive season indulging in decadent pastries and champagne, all the while scheming for my grand return to the stage. This year, darling, it’s all about bringing back the power and the glamour - think shimmering sequined costumes and moves that command attention! Oh, the things we'll see!
The New York City Ballet opened its new season with a tribute to the legendary **George Balanchine**. You know darling, I adored him. There's nothing quite like witnessing a revival of The Four Temperaments with **Ashley Bouder** and **Sara Mearns**, who both had an electric stage presence. Let's face it, Ashley's leaps are something to behold. A real ballerina has to have 'it', you know? And **Sara's** lyrical lines - they were breathtaking!
Speaking of leaps, it was a delight to see **Darcey Bussell** return to the stage in the Royal Ballet’s revival of Swan Lake. I was lucky enough to get a prime seat in the Royal Opera House and simply couldn't help myself! She looked ravishing in those flowing white tutus - quite the contrast to the shimmering black swan ensemble. **Darcey** is a star in the making and the perfect blend of elegant grace and dramatic passion.
While in the UK, you simply must see The Royal Ballet’s new production of Giselle featuring the extraordinary Marianela Nuñez** who simply captivated audiences with her delicate yet strong portrayal. But honestly, **Natalia Osipova** was a force of nature in the final act. And darling, the story, a tale of forbidden love and heartbreaking betrayal, is perfect for those dark winter evenings. It's truly romantic in a gothic, dark fairy-tale way!
On the continent, **Paris Opera Ballet** has been knocking it out of the park, darling. The stunning **Sylvie Guillem** is back in their production of **Romeo and Juliet**. You really need to witness her emotional journey - a whirlwind of tender passion and despair. There's nothing like **Sylvie’s** talent - she brings so much life to each step.
Over in Italy, the La Scala Ballet was also raising eyebrows this season, launching their very first modern ballet production: **Dances with a Thousand Eyes**. I know some might say it's a departure from traditional ballet, but trust me darling, it's truly exceptional. It's visually captivating - think dynamic movement and stunning set design. And there was something quite powerful and moving about its raw emotional intensity. It’s worth going even for a glance!
Now for the contemporary darlings! In New York City, **The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater** was serving serious style and elegance with a new production of Revelations. The story, inspired by African-American spirituals and gospel music, is incredibly heartwarming. I especially love how **Ailey’s** dancers interpret each powerful movement with a grace and energy that truly elevates the art form.
Speaking of contemporary ballets, darling, you must make time to catch **Martha Graham’s** timeless masterpiece **Appalachian Spring** at the **Martha Graham Dance Company’s** New York show! The performance is deeply touching, especially its depictions of American life in the early 20th century. **Martha Graham** truly has a knack for captivating and challenging you with her masterful choreographies!
And speaking of captivating and challenging, **Merce Cunningham** has again shocked and awed with his avant-garde production **In-Between**. Now this, darling, is not for everyone, it really makes you think! I know it's not traditionally "beautiful" ballet but, I must admit, I appreciate his experimental approach! The dancers seemed like floating, swirling shadows and it really pushed me to question my understanding of ballet, darling! I left the theatre breathless, utterly exhausted!
But before I get completely swept up in the world of cutting-edge choreography, it's only fair to give some credit to the rising stars in the dance world, the new generation of dancers who are set to become icons. One darling I have my eyes on is Ana Sophia Scheller of **American Ballet Theatre**. This stunning young dancer has a fierce presence and is absolutely one to watch out for! She's set to conquer Broadway! She really embodies what it means to be a dancer in the 21st Century: bold, independent, and always breaking the rules.
I'd also suggest giving the **Dutch National Ballet** a try! They are incredibly talented, especially the rising stars, **Olga Smirnova** and **Isaiah Jenne**. It's a must-see! Their Swan Lake** is one of the most beautiful productions I’ve witnessed in quite a long time!
However, while we must celebrate these stars of the future, let's not forget to take a moment to admire those iconic dancers who have shaped our world, those legendary figures like the late, great Rudolf Nureyev** or Margot Fonteyn**, who still influence the art form even today. I always get emotional whenever I see clips from their famous performances. And even though time has passed, their lasting legacy in ballet will remain forever, forever a testament to their artistic genius.
As the curtain comes down on this review, darling, I'm reminded of why I love ballet so much! It’s more than just steps and movements; it's an explosion of emotions! A breathtaking journey into a world of fantasy, drama, and elegance. So get out there, darling, and treat yourself to a show! Let yourself be mesmerized and transported! This year, let us embrace the art and embrace the power of the stage, for the beauty of ballet awaits!
Ballet Essentials 2005- The Four Temperaments - New York City Ballet
- Swan Lake - Royal Ballet
- Giselle - Royal Ballet
- Romeo and Juliet - Paris Opera Ballet
- Dances with a Thousand Eyes - La Scala Ballet
- Revelations - Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
- Appalachian Spring - Martha Graham Dance Company
- In-Between - Merce Cunningham
And lastly, my darling friends, never be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina! Let your style and personality shine through! Remember, elegance isn’t just about a beautiful tutu, it’s also about a confident carriage!