AI Ballet Review 489

## A Dancer’s Diary: January 2009 Darling, the new year has begun, and the dance world is already bursting with excitement! My December break has left me feeling refreshed and ready to soak up all the balletic beauty the world has to offer. • First stop, **The Royal Ballet**, of course! Their January production of **"The Sleeping Beauty"** was nothing short of a fairytale dream. The sheer grandeur of the production, with its sumptuous costumes and enchanting sets, instantly transports you to a bygone era. I especially enjoyed the intricate choreography for the "Rose Adagio," showcasing the grace and technical prowess of the principal dancers. Let's be honest, Marianela Nuñez as Aurora was simply divine! Her dancing had a delicate lightness and ethereal quality, almost like she was floating across the stage. • Speaking of ethereal beauty, the **Paris Opera Ballet's "La Bayadère"** truly stole my breath away! The breathtaking corps de ballet, dressed in those magnificent shimmering costumes, seemed to glide across the stage, each movement perfectly synchronized. I found myself transfixed by the power and passion of the choreography, especially during the "Kingdom of Shades" sequence. The vibrant colors and captivating narrative made for an utterly unforgettable performance. Of course, the sheer talent of Aurélie Dupont as Nikiya was breathtaking - her every step a display of elegance and control. • For something a bit different, I ventured to **New York City Ballet's** annual **"Winter Jewels"** programme. The programme showcased a variety of contemporary works, a breath of fresh air after all the classics. A particularly striking piece was **"The Dove"**, a whimsical ballet with delicate, bird-like movements that captivated the audience. It truly showed the depth of the NYCB dancers’ talents, and I've never been so moved by their expressions and movements. • The highlight of the month was undoubtedly the **Royal Opera House's** glittering **"Gala Performance."** This lavish event was a celebration of the best of the best, featuring internationally acclaimed stars. It was such a treat to see the likes of Natalia Osipova, Alina Cojocaru, and Ivan Vasiliev on the same stage - talk about dazzling! The program itself was a mix of exquisite classics, thrilling modern pieces, and some unexpected delights. • For those seeking a truly unique dance experience, I highly recommend the **American Ballet Theatre's "Giselle"** – It was utterly mesmerizing. The costumes were exquisitely crafted and gave each scene such a captivating visual story. The powerful choreography brought the story to life with a mesmerizing blend of passion and tragedy. I found myself entirely absorbed in the narrative and the intricate storytelling through the language of dance. Of course, the emotional power of the ballet comes to the forefront thanks to the utterly stellar performance of Paloma Herrera – a masterful display of strength and vulnerability. I’ve heard that Natalia Osipova has been nominated as the next Gisele – if it’s as exquisite as Paloma’s portrayal, it’s a must see. • Away from the usual classics, **Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's** "Revelations" is not to be missed! It’s an exhilarating exploration of African-American heritage, infused with powerful emotion, energy, and artistry. It truly resonates with the raw expression of its performers. • Speaking of raw energy, the **New York City Ballet's "A Midsummer Night’s Dream"** was pure theatrical magic. This fantastical journey with mischievous fairies and romantic complications was the perfect escape from the January chill. A vibrant mixture of classical ballet and modern interpretation, the choreography perfectly captured the playfulness of Shakespeare’s world. It is the perfect reminder that even after years of ballet, the magic is never lost. The ensemble dance was exceptional, with the entire company seemingly dancing on air, making this production a delightful escape for any ballet lover. • Finally, **The Royal Ballet's “Don Quixote”** gave me a chance to truly enjoy the celebration of life, laughter, and pure, unadulterated joy. The performance was a whirlwind of colorful costumes, fantastic choreography, and some breathtaking dance moments. The role of Kitri is perfect for the vivacious Marianela Nuñez, and I loved the chemistry she shared with Carlos Acosta, whose energetic Basilio was equally thrilling. That's a glimpse of what's been keeping me busy this January. It truly is an exciting time for dance, with so many talented dancers and unique productions to enjoy. If you happen to be in London, I recommend visiting the Royal Ballet shop – their latest selection of accessories is simply divine! I'm currently loving a gorgeous scarlet clutch that is perfect for any balletic event. And of course, what's a ballerina's life without the right attire? This season is all about effortless elegance. For a touch of romance in the cool weather, I recommend a delicate ivory chiffon gown, layered with a soft knitted cardigan and classic black ballerina flats. When you want to make an impact in the city, you can't go wrong with a smart tailored pencil skirt paired with a fitted silk top, finishing the look with a statement piece of jewellery like a long, sparkling earring. I hope this January has brought you a wealth of inspiration and excitement – the dance world is calling !