AI Ballet Review 507

## A Ballerina's Diary: July 2010 My darlings, Another month of flitting through the most exquisite performances, and let me tell you, July truly did deliver! From the grandeur of the Bolshoi to the intimate magic of a London fringe festival, I've been lucky enough to soak up some truly breathtaking artistry. Buckle up, darlings, as we dive into the whirlwind that was my July! London, Darling, London! We can't discuss the month without mentioning the **Royal Ballet's "Giselle"** at Covent Garden. A classic, of course, but this time it had an added touch of drama thanks to the dynamic duo of Natalia Osipova and Marianela Nuñez. Theirs was a *Romeo and Juliet* of the stage - fierce, passionate, and heartbreaking. Natalia’s ethereal, delicate Giselle perfectly juxtaposed Marianela’s fiery Myrtha, making for a captivating interplay of power and vulnerability. Honestly, darling, their pas de deux was enough to make even the most jaded soul swoon. I couldn't help but fall in love with the set design – that mist-shrouded forest, the ethereal, moonlit ambiance - truly immersive! And the costumes, oh, the costumes! The ethereal gossamer gowns and flowing tulle – simply exquisite! They paired so beautifully with the swirling choreography, it felt as though the dancers were truly flitting through the air. But London didn’t just offer us traditional ballet. At the **Sadler's Wells Theatre**, I was absolutely floored by **Akram Khan's "Desh"**. A stunning, evocative piece blending Indian Kathak and contemporary dance, it truly was an emotional rollercoaster. The powerful storytelling, combined with Khan's virtuosic skill and his signature use of dramatic lighting, created a powerful and intimate atmosphere. I almost shed a tear or two, honestly, it was that moving! I just couldn't help but notice the undeniable charm of the younger, less-known dancers - such fierce energy, so much promise! It felt a little bit like seeing the next generation of dance superstars being born, a thrilling experience for someone like me who’s seen so many greats already! Paris: A City of Enchantment Of course, my travels didn't stop in London! July also saw me whisk myself off to the City of Lights – can't go a month without that, can we? The highlight of my Parisian adventures was absolutely the **"Sleeping Beauty"** at the **Palais Garnier** – the jewel in the crown of the **Paris Opera Ballet**, no less! I mean, you simply can't beat the sheer magnificence of the Palais, can you? It’s as though you’ve stepped onto the set of a grand opera itself! The costumes were spectacular – think shimmering satin, swirling silks, and, of course, the quintessential tulle tutu – *swoon*! I simply couldn’t take my eyes off of the delicate artistry of the dancers. Their poise and elegance were positively breathtaking – truly a delight for the eyes, my dear! But the real reason to see this "Sleeping Beauty," you ask? The iconic Aurora, performed by none other than **Agnès Letestu!** My dear, the moment she graced the stage, the entire theater simply gasped in admiration! It was her portrayal of Aurora’s youthful innocence that was truly captivating, coupled with the effortless beauty of her dancing. She truly made this princess a legend! I just hope the next time I'm in Paris, I can be as fortunate as to see her grace the stage once more! Beyond the Conventional: The Power of Modern Dance You see, darling, July was a real tapestry of diverse dance experiences. I’m always drawn to the unique energy and expression found in the modern world. While in **Berlin**, I was truly mesmerised by **"The Rite of Spring"** at the **Berlin Staatsballett**. This reimagining of the Stravinsky masterpiece brought the ancient rites of a tribe to life, the movement as brutal and powerful as the score. You can imagine my thrill! The dancers were extraordinary - truly masterful at capturing both the raw aggression and the primitive ritual of the story. Their bodies spoke a language far beyond the vocabulary of conventional ballet, expressing the brutal beauty of the sacrifice – I truly felt it within my bones, darling! And the staging, oh my! The powerful symbolism, the stunning visual elements - simply breathtaking! And, the **New York City Ballet’s** "**The Times Are Racing"** had a real captivating charm. It’s not exactly a classical masterpiece – far from it - but it’s truly thrilling to witness such raw energy. This work uses the pace and rhythms of contemporary life – the traffic, the endless flow of the urban world. It’s edgy, challenging and truly unique! It really gets your heart racing – quite literally, as I discovered during a particularly frantic section of the choreography! It reminded me, that no matter what, the energy of New York City simply pulls you in. A Journey Through Dance: I'm lucky to be a dancer in an era where the boundaries are constantly being redefined. Every month, new expressions and stories unfold through the bodies of incredible artists, and this month truly exemplified that diversity and spirit! My journey through dance isn’t just a performance review, it’s a personal pilgrimage. Every month, it re-energizes my soul, reminding me of the power and beauty inherent within human expression – that’s something you just don’t get on any stage in the world! I just hope that, with my little notes, I might have inspired you to journey through your own, unique, and magical dance. Until next month, darlings!