AI Ballet Review 567

Oh darlings! July! The height of summer, with the sun finally out, revealing those enviable tans, perfect for catching the eye at the Opera. It seems as if the world is my stage this month, with a plethora of dazzling dance performances, from the elegant grandeur of the Bolshoi to the captivating vibrancy of London's Royal Ballet. There are shows everywhere, offering something for every taste, from classic ballets like Swan Lake to cutting-edge contemporary dance.

So darling, pull out your chicest summer dresses, grab your sparkly ballet flats, and settle in for a review of the world's best dance, this July!

As a seasoned ballerina, I can't resist a good dose of classic ballet. That's why my first stop this month was Moscow, to experience the timeless grandeur of the Bolshoi's rendition of Swan Lake. The Bolshoi's production of "Swan Lake" never fails to enthral. With its lush sets, resplendent costumes, and exquisite choreography, it’s the ultimate fairytale on stage, transporting me to a world of love, betrayal, and breathtaking beauty. You simply must see it for yourselves! The Bolshoi’s Odette and Odile, executed with grace and power, truly were swans in their own right.

But the magic wasn’t just confined to the Bolshoi stage. I was mesmerized by the St Petersburg Ballet Theatre at the London Coliseum, captivating with their exquisite interpretation of Giselle. A production known for its romantic sorrow and beautifully nuanced dancing, their dancers moved with grace, their every step conveying the heartbreaking story of a young woman's love and loss. They were a captivating sight and, much like Giselle, they truly stole my heart.

But enough of the classics! There's an exciting, pulsating contemporary world out there, bursting with artistic fireworks, just begging to be explored. My London adventures didn’t end there; I also spent a fabulous evening with Wayne McGregor's choreography at the Royal Opera House. His latest production was an explosion of movement and energy, a captivating commentary on the world we live in. The dancers pushed their bodies to the absolute limit, their moves infused with raw power and expressive finesse. Their athleticism was breathtaking, and I'm sure I wasn’t alone in watching them with a bit of envy! You know I adore his signature use of innovative technology, and I loved seeing the dancers interact with the digital backdrops.

• In Berlin, I witnessed a truly unique and captivating show, "Ballet im Park" by Sasha Waltz. This captivating spectacle unfolds under the open sky, making use of the Berlin Wall Memorial to present a striking choreography reflecting themes of freedom and memory.
• Over in the U.S., The New York City Ballet is staging a modern production of George Balanchine's Agon which I absolutely have to see.
• I'm longing to travel across the pond, all the way to the Royal Opera House in Copenhagen where the Royal Danish Ballet, famed for its lightness and elegance, are premiering their version of "Don Quixote", so it’s likely you'll see me there in a few weeks!

Beyond these stunning ballet productions, this month has been a real smorgasbord of dance spectacles. In Paris, the prestigious Théâtre du Châtelet offered an amazing programme called "Dancing the World", a fantastic display of dance styles, from traditional Chinese dance to the energetic and expressive salsa, each offering an insight into cultural diversity and the global reach of dance. This eclectic showcase highlighted how dance transcends language, connecting audiences in ways no other art form can.

Back in London, the annual Dance Umbrella festival, an exciting explosion of talent showcased at the Barbican Centre and other venues. This captivating event brings together established and emerging choreographers, offering a peek at the exciting future of dance. The Dance Umbrella always presents a fantastic opportunity for spotting the next big names in the world of dance. You could catch me amongst the crowds, enjoying every minute.

The dance world is far more than just ballets though, darling. So make sure to check out a range of innovative dance forms and exciting styles. I spent a glorious evening watching contemporary dance at Sadler’s Wells, enjoying the dynamic and evocative storytelling of "Frame by Frame", an inspiring and emotive performance exploring relationships, dreams and fears. But what truly took my breath away was the energy and raw emotion of "Motion", a hip-hop dance masterpiece.

Then, at the Southbank Centre in London, there's the intriguing Dance Film Festival, where dance steps out of the theatre, captivating audiences in new and unexpected ways. Here I witnessed a film celebrating the rich cultural history of Afro-American dance and its undeniable impact on our society. It truly got me moving and feeling.

So my darlings, it’s been an absolutely wonderful month, with a fantastic dance schedule, showing that dance is more vibrant, diverse and compelling than ever. It’s no surprise that this art form, infused with its captivating passion, raw energy, and powerful expression, is so intoxicating and addictive.

Of course, with summer in full swing, the allure of the sun and the seaside becomes even stronger, beckoning me with its golden promises of sand and waves. However, if I do have some time away from the dance, my love of art remains. And so, if you catch me enjoying the beautiful beaches of Saint-Tropez, or relaxing in a chic Capri villa, make sure to follow me on social media. You'll see, it’s not just dancing I excel at. You’ll also be finding inspiration for your own summer wardrobe through the chicest designer boutiques, all while sipping cocktails, of course! And who knows, maybe you'll even find me on a secluded island beach, taking part in a passionate salsa performance. Summer's always a great time for new adventures, even for a sophisticated ballerina!