Darling, oh darling! Where to begin with this month's dazzling array of ballets and performances, that's the question. Such an absolute cornucopia of colour and creative energy. The world stage is simply buzzing with an excitement for this fabulous artform, and my dears, we are so lucky to be right there in the midst of it.
But first, a confession. The allure of a fabulously chic Parisian cafe on the Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré beckons, it’s where one must see and be seen, after a captivating show at the Palais Garnier. Let’s be honest darling, the *Garnier* is just a beautiful, if slightly daunting space! Even the most seasoned performer has to have that tiny sliver of self-doubt that is surely a rite of passage when stepping onto that magnificent stage.
What did I see there, you ask? Oh, darling, this is what the whispers are about; it’s *Nureyev*. With a divine lightness, *Guillaume Côté* of Canada's National Ballet, danced with an absolute poetic expression. In his rendition of "The Prince of Persia" his strength was evident yet not forceful, each pose a beautifully held sculpted moment in time. *The* look was all **leopardskin print** and **midnight velvet** for this spectacular ballet.
After my delightful *Garnier* interlude, my Parisian escapades took me next to the Opera National de Paris for **Carmen** , another fabulous experience of pure grace. This timeless, sultry classic set the bar high with the extraordinary **Ludmila Pagliero** and the equally sublime **François Alu**. For an evening where you simply melt into your seat and let your imagination be whisked away, I suggest you seek out a local performance. In Paris, of course, one would find nothing less than excellence and these two ballet stars truly delivered.
*New York City's Must-See: From the Ballet Stage to the Rooftop Gardens*After soaking in Parisian culture I swiftly made my way to New York City where the energy and dynamism was as contagious as it is exciting. Now, I can’t tell you how delighted I was to discover that The *Metropolitan Opera* was playing a charming and captivating *Don Quixote*. It really had the air of "fresh, but also classically refined", which you just can’t fake, darling.
This delightful interpretation really gave **Joseph Gordon** ( a wonderfully athletic and accomplished dancer) the perfect space to showcase his abilities. The audience’s rapt attention to each arabesque and **tour* just goes to show how even a seemingly familiar story, like that of *Don Quixote*, can be elevated into something unique and memorable.
Now my darlings, when I say New York City's most spectacular "nightlife", I’m not just talking about a late-night supper club with **chilled champagne**, but **"New York City Ballet’s" *Balanchine Gala* , on the rooftop at The Lincoln Center.** Imagine this; glittering cityscape against the evening sky, a delectable selection of hors d'oeuvres with a generous glass of something exquisitely bubbly, and, of course, dancing. It was pure delight. To watch the graceful movements on the roof was magical - the *stars* were literally above us! This was definitely one of the season’s most memorable, exciting nights, full of the *joy of the dance* which so few people really appreciate. I’ll confess darling, I was captivated by **Megan Fairchild's* effortless grace and how well her moves brought Balanchine's work to life, the woman is just a delight!
*The Majesty and Spectacle of *Giselle* Around the World: From Budapest to Beijing*The beauty of ballet truly knows no geographical bounds, and this month's showcase of Giselle productions is the perfect example. The *Hungarian National Ballet* brought their dazzling artistry to Budapest’s stage, the audience completely enthralled by their unique vision. *Giselle*, when done right, allows the performer to showcase all aspects of her abilities, technical, emotional and artistic; *a challenge*, you could say. Yet it seems Hungarian dancers took it in their stride and simply excelled. You could sense their passionate connection with this romantic story of love, loss, and ultimately the power of forgiveness.
Moving onto China now, you just have to love the excitement of seeing something so iconic reinterpreted by the *Chinese National Ballet*, and *Giselle* is no exception. My darling, imagine the opulent setting, with stunning costume design, the dancers a marvel of elegant precision in their performance. I found myself captivated by **Geng Yulong** and his ability to capture the melancholic essence of the male lead, adding layers of tragedy and heartache. *A performance*, one simply couldn't forget!
What can I say about **Natalia Osipova**, a true star in the ballet firmament. My oh my, she dazzled and entranced, proving, yet again, that this "Dancing Queen" can literally own any stage. This month she led the Royal Ballet in their interpretation of Giselle - *another London production to rival them all*. Natalia Osipova, in this production, truly embodied Giselle’s *emotional arc* and I can say with the utmost conviction that you will be left completely spellbound by this stunning performance.
*From a Passionate Tango to Ballet Excellence: A Night of Dancing Delight at Buenos Aires’ Teatro Colon*Buenos Aires has that Latin heat you just can't help falling in love with, my darling. From a delicious café latte enjoyed while listening to *tangos* playing on the sidewalk, to an evening of ballet in *the grand old lady* of the city - the *Teatro Colon*. An evening in this theatre, is nothing less than an incredible *immersion* in dance and the vibrant history of this South American metropolis. The energy of the *Teatro Colón* truly shines through when witnessing a piece as passionate as *La Pasión*.
For a real treat, catch a performance by the exquisite and effortlessly stylish **Marianela Núñez**. I have watched this ballet superstar through her many achievements over the years and truly admire her style, grace, and athleticism. This night was full of such dramatic turns and *en pointes*, the emotions ran high with every dramatic pause. I found myself breathless, then utterly enthralled. *This*, my darling, is the kind of ballet you simply have to *see* and experience, a show that truly gives *tangible* form to the most passionate emotions.
**And the month simply flew by darling. There is just so much out there in the ballet world and it's all calling to you.** Be sure to seek out local ballet companies in your own city and I’d bet money that you will discover some fantastic dancers. Let the beauty of this artform capture your heart and inspire you! Don't forget to pack those lovely ballet-watching essentials: opera glasses, and a tiny notebook, of course. Until next month, darlings!