AI Ballet Review 469

## A Whirlwind of Art: May's Most Exquisite Performances Darling, oh darling! This May, the world of ballet and arts is positively buzzing with captivating performances. It’s a truly inspiring month for our senses, filled with everything from captivating neo-classical ballets to modern interpretations of classics. As always, I've been busy flitting about the globe, attending premieres and soaking in the intoxicating energy of the dance world. Let me guide you through the absolute must-sees from this vibrant month. **London's Reign** First stop: London, where the Royal Ballet is, as always, in peak form. My darling friend, Darcey Bussell, absolutely stole the show in the revival of **Frederick Ashton’s “The Dream,”** her performance of Titania a mesmerizing whirlwind of delicate grace and fierce sensuality. I daresay, the Royal Opera House buzzed with an electricity you could almost taste. The lighting was exquisite, capturing the ethereal beauty of the production. But it was the music that truly elevated the entire experience – that haunting yet beautiful score simply drew me in, I was completely transfixed! Then, there’s the magnificent **"Manon"** by Kenneth MacMillan, with Marianela Núñez’s luminous Manon. Her dancing was utterly sublime. You could truly feel her transformation from a innocent country girl to a sophisticated woman of the world – it was masterful! The supporting cast was simply sensational, their energy complementing Núñez’s beautifully. London is, of course, not only about classical ballets. The Sadler’s Wells theatre had its share of delightful surprises, including **“The Rite of Spring”** presented by Akram Khan, a captivating reimagining of Stravinsky’s masterpiece with its mesmerizing visuals and raw energy. The dancers' movements were at once fluid and powerful, creating an atmosphere that was both primal and captivating. **New York City's Rhythm and Soul** Now, on to the Big Apple, where the pulse of the city mirrors the dynamism of the dance world. The American Ballet Theatre had me absolutely spellbound with **"Giselle,"** a timeless masterpiece beautifully portrayed by the dazzling Misty Copeland and the talented David Hallberg. Copeland’s grace and strength were simply awe-inspiring, and Hallberg's performance radiated a captivating tenderness that was simply heart-stopping. The corps de ballet, in their elegant white tutus, danced with breathtaking precision, embodying the ethereal innocence of the sylphides. Speaking of American Ballet Theatre, you simply cannot miss their new production of **"AfterLife,"** a contemporary work by Alexei Ratmansky. The raw emotions were so beautifully channeled, it was positively gripping. It’s definitely not your usual ballet; it explores themes of loss and longing, leaving you feeling strangely thoughtful and invigorated. Across town, New York City Ballet presented a mesmerizing **“The Four Temperaments,”** Balanchine’s exquisite ballet that allows for the individuality of each dancer to truly shine. The choreography was nothing short of exquisite – complex, yet fluid, evoking each temperament in a masterful way. It's truly a testament to the versatility of the dancers and Balanchine's brilliance. **Parisian Elegance** My trip to Paris was an absolute dream, and of course, a must-stop for any ballet devotee is the Opéra Garnier. This month, they hosted the breathtaking **“La Bayadère”**, an opulent spectacle with mesmerizing choreography and truly enchanting music. Natalia Osipova’s performance as Nikiya was unforgettable, with her every movement conveying both fragility and power. This ballet simply demands to be seen for its grandeur, its timeless romance, and the absolute mastery of its execution. But Paris is about more than classical ballets, darlings! In the atmospheric Le Marais, the contemporary company "Cie. Käfig" captivated the audience with **"Vertical Road."** A captivating, and surprisingly moving, combination of breakdancing and acrobatic techniques, it broke free from traditional notions of dance with incredible confidence and vibrant energy. A beautiful statement about how dance can challenge boundaries and reach new audiences. Beyond the Stage: Inspiration Everywhere You can't speak about art in May without mentioning **“The Art of Dance: Degas to Matisse,”** an exhibition currently held at the National Gallery in London. This was an absolute must-see! Degas’ sketches and paintings perfectly captured the fluidity and dynamism of movement, offering an intimate peek into the dancer's world. The collection also includes some fascinating works by Edgar Degas and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, each capturing a different facet of the Parisian dance scene in the late 19th and early 20th century. For those of you seeking a more contemporary exploration of movement and expression, a trip to **"Movement"**, the exhibition at the Barbican Centre in London, is a definite must. This multi-sensory extravaganza celebrates contemporary dance through installations, interactive art, and immersive performances, offering an exciting, even experimental, take on the ways dance can connect us to the world around us. A Final Note It is with a happy heart that I close this whirlwind review of the month's performances. As always, this journey reminds me of the incredible passion, talent, and sheer brilliance of the dance world. From the elegance of a classic ballet to the innovative exploration of contemporary art, the beauty and the energy of dance have touched me profoundly this month, leaving me yearning for more! So, darlings, embrace this vibrant art form and let its magic enchant your senses. And of course, if you have any other recommendations for our fabulous readers, do share them in the comments! Enjoy the month's performances!