Darling, December is upon us, the festive season is in full swing and we're all twirling with excitement for the glorious ballet offerings that await us this month. A whirlwind of world premieres, returning classics, and innovative experimental works are vying for our attention. As for yours truly, well, let's just say, this diva's got her schedule packed to the brim!
Let's start with a little *je ne sais quoi* from across the channel, shall we? I hear the Paris Opera Ballet are setting the stage ablaze with **Giselle** at the Palais Garnier. The costumes? Absolutely divine! A vision of romantic tulle and delicate lace. Apparently, the choreography's rather daring for this iconic production. Whispers on the grapevine suggest a touch of contemporary flair intertwined with the traditional. Now that's a twist even I, your favourite ballerina, could appreciate.
While in France, we must absolutely pay homage to the ethereal grace of **The Nutcracker** at the Opéra National de Paris. The grand sets, the enchanting score - it's pure holiday magic. You can practically taste the sugar plums in the air! Let's just hope they don't ask me to be the Sugar Plum Fairy again. All that sugar makes my pointe shoes rather sticky, darling.
Now, for a touch of fiery flamenco passion, we head to Madrid, where the **Compañía Nacional de Danza** are wowing the crowd with **The Rite of Spring**. This iconic ballet by Stravinsky is a masterpiece. The intensity, the power - it's positively intoxicating. You can feel the energy pulsating through every muscle in your body.
Of course, no December ballet review would be complete without mentioning the grand dame of the season, **The Nutcracker**. It's the perfect family ballet, with its sweet story, twinkling lights, and dazzling choreography. Honestly, it's enough to make even the most jaded ballerina shed a tear or two. This December, I'm particularly excited for **American Ballet Theatre's** production at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York. I'm reliably informed the costumes are positively extravagant, and they've managed to create some absolutely enchanting special effects for the dream sequence.
But darling, the season's not just about classic Christmas cheer. For something daring and different, check out the Royal Ballet's production of **Alice's Adventures in Wonderland** at the Royal Opera House in London. It's a feast for the eyes - whimsical sets, costumes that seem to leap off the stage, and a vibrant, playful take on this classic story. It's an absolute joy to watch, even if it's a bit *over the top* at times, which is a welcome change from the usual traditional fare, isn't it? And it's got the most stunning choreography you've ever seen.
Speaking of breathtaking, we can't leave out the **Cinderella** at the **Bolshoi Theatre** in Moscow. That ballet, darling, it's the epitome of *opulence*! Imagine soaring tutus, lavish sets, and a fairytale ending that makes your heart flutter. A definite must-see, darling.
But for something a little more contemporary, we need to head down to Australia! The Australian Ballet are celebrating their 50th anniversary with an exquisite production of **Symphony in D** by renowned choreographer Alexei Ratmansky. This is ballet at its purest, focusing on the beauty of the dancers' movement and the emotionality of the music. You know I love a little artistry.
Then, to round off our December ballet odyssey, we can't forget the **New York City Ballet** who are staging the dazzling, ever-so-modern **George Balanchine's The Nutcracker**. It's *chic* with its dazzling set design and dynamic choreography. A must-see for anyone who enjoys ballet at its most cutting edge.
Now darling, I know, it’s a busy schedule! However, don't despair, a true ballet enthusiast can make time for it all, I assure you! Just remember to *always look your best* when attending these productions, after all, darling, you are watching art. Be sure to slip into a *fabulous* dress and some sparkling jewellery to elevate your look, even better if *perfectly paired* with a chic, classic ballet flat. Then *twirl* your way into the season! I certainly shall!
And of course, you can always check *The Ballet Diva's* website for a complete and up-to-the-minute listing of all the must-see productions. Remember darling, I'm the ultimate resource for your *high-society* ballet needs. You won't want to miss a single graceful leap!