September - A Ballet Bonanza
Darling, let's face it, there's simply *nothing* like a beautifully staged ballet to put a little polish on a Friday night. And September, darlings, just *oozed* with elegant performances all over the world, proving that this art form is alive and kicking (not literally, darling, though the energy was palpable!)
Let me spill the tea on a few that truly stole the show this month:
- London's Royal Opera House: "Swan Lake" Reimagined
- New York City Ballet: "Jewels" Glitters
- Paris Opera Ballet: A Star is Born - Alassane Mbaye
- Milan's Teatro alla Scala: A Romantic Revival - "La Sylphide"
- A Twist on Tradition - The National Ballet of Canada's "Giselle"
- Beyond the Stage - Art and Dance in Paris
First stop, London town, darling. I couldn't resist a peek at the Royal Opera House's take on the classic "Swan Lake", and it's truly a dazzling affair. While they dared to play with tradition (a bit of a shock for purists, but trust me, it works), the energy of the company was phenomenal. The Odette/Odile duet, it's almost unfair to choose! The pure vulnerability of Odette, the dark, fiery energy of Odile - the contrasts were mesmerising! I practically swooned when the stage transformed into a magical moonlit lake.
From the fog of London to the glamour of New York. I dashed off to see City Ballet's production of "Jewels". Now, this isn't for the faint of heart, it's *avant-garde* ballet at its finest! The choreography, particularly the third movement, "Emeralds", was *absolutely* mesmerising, it literally took my breath away. Plus, darling, the costumes! Let's just say there's not a single shade of green I didn't want to covet.
Darling, a quick jaunt across the channel for a peek at the Paris Opera. Honestly, Alassane Mbaye has risen like a true star. His performance in "La Bayadère" was absolutely electric. I'm always mesmerised by a ballet where the passion just burns through the stage. His solo was phenomenal - all effortless power and incredible fluidity - pure magic! He was certainly a reason to make that transatlantic trip, and you could practically *hear* the whispers of 'rising star' throughout the theatre.
Okay, darling, I'm weak for a whimsical, romantic ballet and Milan's Scala delivered big time. "La Sylphide" with its romantic storyline about a Scottish Highlander who falls in love with a magical Sylph, just hit the spot! The delicate, fluttering steps of the Sylph, her ethereal beauty, simply mesmerised! The set design - oh my - truly a feast for the eyes!
Canada, darling, never fails to bring its own flavour to the ballet world! The National Ballet of Canada really knocked it out of the park with their "Giselle" This production felt fresh and full of emotional depth, the dance interpretation of love, betrayal, and ultimately forgiveness really moved me! Plus, darling, I must applaud them on the use of modern, dynamic choreography, which complimented the classic elements beautifully!
And what would a September ballet binge be without a bit of art immersion? This month I couldn't resist a trip to Paris to see the show "Body & Soul" at the Palais de Tokyo. The concept - blending contemporary dance with incredible visual installations - simply captivating! Honestly, darling, some of the imagery was *otherworldly* - almost like watching a moving dream sequence.
There are a *slew* of other ballet pieces that deserve recognition! The Bolshoi's return of "Spartacus", the Dutch National Ballet's stunning performance of "The Sleeping Beauty", and of course, the ever-inspiring works of the American Ballet Theatre.
With this explosion of incredible talent and masterful choreography, one thing's for sure, darling - the future of ballet is *bright*. Until next time, remember, always move gracefully, always strive for elegance!
XOXO, Your Ballet Muse