Darling,
Well, the wind's practically whipping my eyelashes off this month, but haven't you just *died* at the gorgeous, new couture we saw at Haute Couture Week? Can you believe that divine Valentino gown? And the feathers at Chanel, simply divine! Of course, all this fashion has left me with an insatiable urge to get back to my studio, polish my pointe shoes and dance, dance, dance! Thankfully, January's ballet scene provided plenty of inspiration, with exciting premières, a dazzling performance of the classics and some stellar dancers reminding me just how exquisite this art form can be.
My dear friend, and absolute muse, **Tamara Rojo** - we all simply adore her, don't we? - slayed the stage in *The Sleeping Beauty* at The Royal Opera House, London. Darling, she was *everything*! Her Aurora was simply spellbinding - the grace, the power, the flawless technique! The performance felt like a beautiful dream, with the whole corps de ballet weaving their magic. I was absolutely captivated. Her opening scene as Princess Aurora, the precision of her port de bras, her elegance as she gracefully swanned around the stage, well it left me breathless, I swear. And the final scene of her *grande pas de deux*, absolutely divine! Let's be honest, it wouldn't be the same without **Carlos Acosta**, his passion simply radiating across the stage. A perfect partner, a fiery, explosive dancer. We're all so lucky to have them both gracing London stages with their incredible talent. Oh, and I can't forget the costumes. Oh, my dear! That iconic white tutu, just dreamy!
But we mustn't forget the exceptional dancers outside the hallowed halls of the Royal Opera House, shall we? The Bolshoi’s rendition of *Romeo and Juliet* was *something* else. The choreography, the emotion, it felt so raw and real, like a true glimpse into Shakespeare's masterpiece. The performance truly reminded me of the passion that fuels ballet, and it truly got me thinking about how ballet can communicate a story through a single gesture or glance. I’m still completely smitten with **Olga Smirnova**’s Juliet. Such raw emotion in her movements. And let’s be honest, **David Hallberg** is absolutely delectable as Romeo. That strength, that controlled power. Truly exceptional. I dare say the rest of the cast gave a brilliant performance as well - just fabulous!
Speaking of exceptional, there was also a stunning production of **Swan Lake** at the Paris Opera Ballet. Honestly, the artistry, the breathtaking performances! **Aurélie Dupont**, my absolute favourite, took to the stage as Odette and Odile - darling, what a transformative performance! I was glued to the stage watching her graceful movement. And the famous ‘White Swan’ variation. Oh, simply stunning! And then as Odile she was just simply mesmerizing, such effortless brilliance! As a fellow dancer, it’s hard not to be in awe of her. Such effortless elegance! But I mustn’t leave out **Manuel Legris** who, darling, is still the ultimate Prince. It really is a perfect partnership, don’t you think? The costumes were divine, with an almost whimsical design, the entire performance was absolutely magical. It just went to prove why the classics remain classics.
Now, on a more contemporary note, the *New York City Ballet’s* *Jewels* truly had me enraptured! It's an unparalleled and iconic show, darling! The performance really showed how dancers could transcend technique into storytelling. Each gem - a beautiful and captivating symbol - represented a different emotion and artistic direction. My absolute favorite had to be the emerald segment - truly elegant. The intricate steps, the dramatic jumps - a beautiful ode to the beauty and artistry of Balanchine’s choreographic talent. Of course, there’s the diamond, so sophisticated and dazzling. This piece is always full of exquisite details, beautiful patterns and precise timing, it never fails to impress me. And lastly, the sapphire, an intense, dark beauty, simply stunning! The performance showcased an elegant dance piece full of emotional intensity. The artistry of *Jewels* is just so beautifully encapsulated in the unique and graceful choreography.
Then I stumbled across the **American Ballet Theatre’s** performance of *Giselle*. My dear! A ballet full of emotion! It's a love story for the ages. I truly felt moved by **Misty Copeland**’s performance, the anguish in her every move was heartbreaking. Her talent simply blows me away. I truly felt like I was in the 19th century watching this timeless tragedy unfold. And can I tell you, she looks absolutely *stunning* in the second act as a Wilis. Absolutely magnificent! Such an enchanting presence! It was almost like a fairytale – except tragic. Of course, **David Hallberg** has this knack for creating on-stage chemistry and the dramatic romanticism between them was so breathtaking. And honestly, that last act…simply perfection. What a tragic yet brilliant ballet performance! The haunting movements of the Wilis left a lasting impression.
So, darling, the world of ballet remains as captivating as ever. And this month, it's been the performances that truly stand out, bringing classics to life and pushing boundaries, a captivating and truly exciting experience for any balletomane.
In the Spotlight:
Well, as always, it’s impossible to talk about ballets without acknowledging some truly standout performers.
- Tamara Rojo is definitely a queen amongst queens in the ballet world! It was an honor to see her breathtaking performance in *Sleeping Beauty* at the Royal Opera House. I’ve long admired her incredible technique and the absolute effortless control she brings to the stage.
- **Misty Copeland** - Darling, just watch her soar! Her powerful yet elegant performance in *Giselle* with American Ballet Theatre was nothing short of sensational! This was truly an iconic and memorable performance.
- **Olga Smirnova**’s Juliet in *Romeo and Juliet* with the Bolshoi was, honestly, captivating. The passion and raw emotion she expressed through her movements had me truly engrossed from beginning to end. It was a truly beautiful display of power and grace.
- Aurélie Dupont truly dazzles as Odette and Odile in the Paris Opera Ballet’s production of *Swan Lake*. There’s something special about seeing her grace and precision - she brings this almost divine presence to the stage!
- Carlos Acosta’s energy and brilliance is a spectacle to behold! Seeing his performance in *Sleeping Beauty* with **Tamara Rojo** was the ultimate display of passion and chemistry between dancers.
- And who can ignore the incredible David Hallberg - such an exciting performer! I simply loved his chemistry with both Misty Copeland in *Giselle* and **Olga Smirnova** in *Romeo and Juliet*. Such a talented dancer.
Well, darling, that's it for this month. It's truly been a captivating month in the world of ballet, with brilliant performances showcasing timeless tales and contemporary gems. And remember, life's a performance, darling. So, don't forget to strut your stuff with elegance and flair.
XOXO
The Ballerina