My darlings, August, a month of languorous days, long picnics, and divine seaside escapades! Yet, there is one constant that transcends even the most sweltering days – the glorious ballet. I am back, fresh from a divine summer of performances, and let me tell you, my heart is overflowing with sheer delight at the marvels I have witnessed. We must, however, pay tribute to those extraordinary talents who weave their magic under the bright lights, transporting us all to fantastical realms.
First, let us begin with the **Royal Ballet**, oh those impeccable dancers! You know me, I'm a sucker for their balletic prowess and let's face it, who can resist the opulent backdrop of the Royal Opera House.
My latest indulgence was their breathtaking interpretation of **Giselle**. It was a tour-de-force, a beautiful ode to a classical masterpiece. The dancers glided with ethereal grace, their movements as captivating as the intricate plot, filled with romantic intrigue and profound sadness. **Marianela Nuñez** and **Steven McRae** were the ultimate dream team; Nuñez’s performance was so incredibly emotive that I could barely hold back the tears, her virtuosity both humbling and mesmerizing. I’ve been a long time admirer of McRae, his skill and charm are undeniable and here he really shined. But you know what? The corps de ballet stole the show! I was mesmerized by their perfectly synchronized movements, an ethereal symphony of grace. And did you see their beautiful tulle tutus, darling? To die for! I felt as though I was whisked away to another world entirely, an opulent realm filled with ethereal beauty. I even caught a glimpse of my favorite ballerina, **Francesca Hayward**, a beautiful sight, even if only for a fleeting moment! **
I must also confess that my obsession with **English National Ballet** is growing each day, my dears. The energy that they infuse into each production, well, it's truly contagious. Let me tell you, **The Sleeping Beauty**, I was positively enchanted! They took the classic fairy tale and spun it into a magnificent production, imbued with sheer delight. The set was nothing short of stunning – majestic and opulent in true fairytale fashion, the costumes shimmered like jewels and the performances, pure magic. It was the sheer joy on the dancers’ faces that resonated the most. They embraced their roles, they lived their parts, their passion pouring onto the stage, captivating and infectious. **Alina Cojocaru**’s Princess Aurora was breathtaking. Such exquisite grace, elegance, and flawless technique. The scene where she wakes from her enchanted slumber…pure enchantment! I am still under its spell! And **Vadim Muntagirov’s** Prince Desire was the epitome of fairytale charm! This production was an unforgettable experience, my darlings. So enchanting! I must tell you, my dear, the corps de ballet at ENB is becoming my secret obsession! Their precision, elegance, and sheer joy are utterly addictive.
Next on my list was the ever so dramatic **Royal Swedish Ballet**. It seems that we just cannot escape the spellbinding **Swan Lake**, can we? You know, this timeless tale just never loses its allure. This interpretation was quite the treat, with its minimalist yet powerful stage design and beautifully stark costumes, a real statement in design! And my dears, the dancers were exceptional, an elegant and graceful ballet of extraordinary skill and passion! **Maria Kochetkova** was truly phenomenal! Such power, elegance, and emotional depth - absolutely enthralling! And did you see **Andreas Krohn** in his powerful rendition of the prince? Utterly captivating, he moved with a fierce beauty, drawing us deeper into the story with every step.
The summer festival season was simply sensational. Did you manage to catch any of the enchanting performances?
- At the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, there was the **Scottish Ballet’s** **'The Crucible'**, a captivating rendition of the classic text. Their interpretation was utterly spellbinding.
- And my darlings, if you were lucky enough to visit **Bayreuth** for their summer opera season, **The Royal Danish Ballet** in **‘Tannhäuser’**, was nothing short of divine, pure beauty, their athleticism and passion on stage were intoxicating!
- And let's not forget **Paris** for their enchanting 'Ballet Opera', I simply had to be there for this unique and utterly dazzling event, featuring incredible dance performances accompanied by beautiful, classical opera. Such a treat for the senses!
- My dear friend **Anna Pavlova** also had a most brilliant show at **The Royal Ballet** , of course. It’s a dream come true to watch **Tamara Rojo** dance in **"Giselle". ** You just have to see her! She brought her incredible talent and passionate performance to such an iconic ballet, with a powerful, dramatic style.
Now, while these productions were all truly spectacular, I simply couldn’t resist attending the Paris Opera Ballet this season. You know they always put on the most exceptional shows! I just have to confess, I was most captivated by their version of **'Romeo and Juliet'.** My dear, they transformed this timeless tale into a captivating theatrical spectacle! I must say, the production value was impeccable, each scene exquisitely detailed with captivating choreography. I was moved by the intense, raw passion that the dancers poured onto the stage! You know I am an absolute sucker for this romantic classic, but I must admit, **Benjamin Millepied**'s fresh take, well, it breathed new life into a classic story. I simply could not tear my eyes away. It was breathtaking, truly moving, a spectacle of grace, emotion, and undeniable talent.
I even ventured further afield, venturing to the vibrant, bustling world of **Japan**. **The New National Theatre** is certainly gaining international recognition for their artistic brilliance, particularly **the ballet season**. I couldn’t resist exploring their diverse programs, immersing myself in new creative ventures. I fell head over heels for their unique, experimental performance of **'The Rite of Spring'.** The choreography was utterly modern and audacious, with dancers displaying remarkable physicality, pushing the boundaries of classic ballet and I loved the experimental, modern approach. You know how I love something unconventional and exciting, and **The New National Theatre**, they deliver every time. It’s an innovative company at the forefront of new ballet, which is what makes it so fascinating, an exploration of fresh and original ballet styles.
So, my darlings, as August gently gives way to the enchanting season of autumn, the allure of the ballet remains steadfast. From the intricate stories to the raw emotions poured onto the stage, we, the audience, are swept away, transported to a world beyond the everyday. My next stop? I hear there are wonderful shows happening in **Vienna**. Oh, how I adore those beautiful performances! I must hurry now, so many shows to enjoy, so little time!
Until next time, dear readers, embrace the magic! I’ll see you at the next grand gala. Until then, you can always reach me through the *Ballet De Jour* instagram, where I’ll be sharing all my favorite moments of each performance and those divine ballerina fashion tips! Remember, stay glamorous!