AI Ballet Review 555

## The World in Pointe: July 2014 Oh darlings! The summer is in full swing, the sun is shimmering and I've been twirling all over the globe, catching some of the most divine performances! From London to New York, the dance world has been buzzing with incredible productions and, of course, I was there to soak it all in. Let me spill the tea, dears, on the hottest happenings. London's Royal Ballet: The Tutus Are Twirling First stop, my home base: The Royal Ballet. We opened the month with **Romeo and Juliet**, and let me tell you, the energy was palpable! My darling Edward Watson, oh the man can truly move! His Romeo was pure passion and vulnerability, and it was heartbreaking watching him melt into that "Dying Swan" pose (you know, the one that breaks my heart every time). The lovely Marianela Nunez as Juliet was a complete triumph! Her youthfulness and passion just melted your heart. It was so much more than a simple performance; it was a visceral experience. Speaking of visceral, **Mayerling** is on at the Royal Opera House and it's simply thrilling! This story of madness and obsession in the Austrian court is pure theatricality. The costumes are exquisite and the choreography by Kenneth MacMillan is intense and captivating. Let me tell you, there are some incredibly steamy pas de deux in this one, dears, which I particularly enjoyed watching from the front row with my dearest Fiona (you know, the one with the amazing Bulgari collection). **American Ballet Theatre: The Big Apple's Ballet Gems** I popped over to New York to check out the American Ballet Theatre and, my darlings, it did not disappoint! I saw a simply breathtaking **Giselle**. The staging was breathtakingly beautiful, and the dancing was incredible! The delicate artistry of the ballerinas is just heavenly. There's something incredibly romantic about the ethereal spirit of Giselle, don't you think? And a *must-see* for anyone in the Big Apple is **After the Rain**, the gorgeous new ballet by Christopher Wheeldon. The choreography is so contemporary and fluid, a beautiful marriage of classical ballet and contemporary movements. I absolutely adore it. **Other Delights around the Globe** I have been absolutely captivated by the **Dutch National Ballet** in their production of **Cinderella**. There were just so many original elements! The dancers, including the stunning Polina Semionova, truly embraced the spirit of this classic story, and the innovative costumes, a kaleidoscope of sparkling textures, were simply fabulous. It's like nothing I've seen before. You must see it if you have a chance! **The Bolshoi's Magic** My darling, the Bolshoi in Moscow is just… well, an experience in itself. I always feel like I am stepping back into history. But beyond the iconic exterior, it's about the raw, unadulterated passion in the dancing. I had the honour of seeing a production of **Swan Lake**, and, dears, I was blown away by the talent! The intensity, the precision, the effortless grace; the Bolshoi dancers have a gift, a special spark that simply shines on stage. **Festival Fun: More than just Ballet** My darlings, it wouldn't be summer without a few music festivals. I have been to quite a few: from Glastonbury to Coachella. There's something about being immersed in music, the collective energy of thousands that truly charges you. But beyond the rock stars and indie bands, it's all about the fashion, the artistry, and discovering the new and fresh talent out there. Don't be shy to be a bit eccentric with your outfits! Go for colour, textures, statement pieces - you only live once. The Beauty of a Dance Ensemble A little tidbit from the world of ballet that caught my eye? A documentary about the Paris Opera Ballet, *Dancer*. It delves into the intense, competitive, yet utterly captivating world of this prestigious company. It's more than just dancing; it's a glimpse into the sacrifices, the dreams, and the determination of these dedicated souls. It's a truly captivating film. **This Month's Fashion Picks:** * It wouldn't be July without a dash of vintage chic. I'm obsessed with those delicate lace dresses that give a hint of femininity without being too fussy. Pair it with pearl drop earrings, a little statement necklace, and, of course, the perfect pair of ballerinas! * Speaking of shoes, I am absolutely smitten with those Jimmy Choo metallic sandals. The glitz and glamour, the high heels and sparkling embellishments, they add a sophistication to any summer outfit. They'll even complete your ballerina off-duty look, dears. Trust me on that! **The July Mood** Summer is the perfect time to rediscover the joy of the simple things. The sunshine, the long evenings, the freedom to express ourselves... this July is about enjoying the artistry of movement and being inspired by those who live and breathe for it! So grab a glass of champagne, slip into a glamorous summer dress, and dance with the stars!