Dearest readers, Well, my darlings, it's December, and the air is filled with the delicious anticipation of Christmas and New Year, of course, but also a thrilling energy in the world of ballet! This month promises some dazzling debuts and revivals. You'll find me, naturally, taking in all the chicest performances around the globe, reporting back with my always-candid (and of course impeccably stylish) perspective, from the twinkling lights of New York to the enchanting atmosphere of Paris. Let's begin our ballet pilgrimage, shall we? New York City Ballet: A "Swan Lake" fit for a Fashionista It would be remiss of me not to start with the darling of the dance world - the New York City Ballet. This December, they're reviving their beloved "Swan Lake", and, my dears, it's not to be missed. Of course, "Swan Lake" is a classic, so the real intrigue lies in the way it's reimagined. This year, they're working with designer extraordinaire, Christian Lacroix, to create a completely new look and feel. Just imagine the feathered embellishments, the dramatic tulle, and, of course, the signature Lacroix colours - breathtaking! You know, darling, a touch of Parisian flair always elevates any ballet, wouldn't you say? I hear Principal Dancer Maria Kowroski is giving a stellar performance as Odette/Odile. I can't wait to see how she embodies the graceful fragility of the swan princess alongside the seductive mystery of the Black Swan. The Royal Ballet: An Immersive "Sleeping Beauty" Speaking of enchantment, the Royal Ballet's "Sleeping Beauty" this season promises a complete visual and aural immersion. From the intricately detailed costumes, with their layers of velvet and silks, to the spectacular stage design that feels more like a magical forest than a mere setting, everything is truly breathtaking. The music is just as transporting. Tchaikovsky's score is so poignant, so utterly heart-stoppingly beautiful that you can’t help but feel swept away into the world of Princess Aurora and her princely suitor. The Paris Opera Ballet: An Ode to Modernity Of course, it wouldn't be a complete review without acknowledging the exquisite Paris Opera Ballet, the grand dame of ballet in all its elegant glory. They are showcasing a modern ballet choreographed by the innovative Benjamin Millepied - a man whose daring interpretations of the art form are nothing short of fascinating. And can we even begin to talk about the exquisite costumes designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier? Oh my! The sleek silhouettes, the dramatic use of colour, it is pure French glamour at its best! This piece promises an exciting new dimension to classical ballet. Across the Globe: Delights and Discoveries Now, of course, I wouldn't dare omit our darlings in the world of international ballet! The Mariinsky Ballet in St. Petersburg, renowned for their technical brilliance and the stunning classical tradition, is celebrating a beautiful, rare production of "Giselle", a romantic gem, with all its enchanting beauty. And what a treat is waiting for ballet enthusiasts in Australia? The Australian Ballet will be offering a stunning new production of "Don Quixote", complete with colorful costumes and playful staging. I expect nothing less from the Australian Ballet with its renowned vibrancy and captivating energy. But there is so much more to discover Remember, darling, ballet isn’t just about grand theatres and glamorous performances. It’s also about the intimacy of smaller studios and independent dancers who bring their heart and soul to their art. So while you're at the grand Palais Garnier in Paris or the opulent Metropolitan Opera House in New York, take the time to seek out those hidden gems. You may find yourself falling head-over-heels for an unexpected masterpiece! **Of course, the beauty of ballet is not confined to performances on the stage. It spills out into galleries, museums, and art installations around the globe. Here are some exciting exhibitions you don’t want to miss** * **The de Young Museum in San Francisco presents a beautiful and comprehensive retrospective on the work of Degas, with an especial emphasis on his exquisite depictions of ballerinas, captured in mid-flight and overflowing with motion and elegance.** The exquisite line, the soft, fluid colors - I expect to be swept away! * **Over in the UK, the Tate Modern, darling, is offering a thrilling exhibition titled "Moving Pictures" exploring the visual and conceptual connections between dance and film.** Just imagine the possibilities of combining the ephemeral beauty of dance with the magic of moving images! It’s a brilliant juxtaposition of two captivating mediums. * **For a more historical look at ballet's legacy, I recommend a visit to the Museo Nazionale del Teatro in Italy. Their exhibit on "The Art of the Ballerina: 19th Century" is a magnificent exploration of the evolution of ballet costume and performance style. From the flowing skirts of the early Romantics to the streamlined silhouettes of the late 19th century, it will be a feast for the eyes!** This month, I promise, will be a thrilling one. The energy of dance permeates the world - and you, dear readers, can be a part of it! Immerse yourself in the art form, explore its nuances and let your spirit take flight. I’ll be right there, taking it all in and, naturally, sharing all the enchanting details with you. Until next time, darling, keep dancing!
