Novemberās Ballets, Bouquets, and Beauty
My darlings, what a month for the ballet! As the air crisps, so too do our toes and spirits! I'm here to spill the tea on November's ballet bonanza - and my goodness, it was truly divine. From the glittering shores of the Mediterranean to the frost-kissed capitals of Europe, a kaleidoscope of dance, drama, and simply breathtaking beauty. Now grab a pain au chocolat and letās dive into this elegant petit ballet ā¦
The Royal Opera House had me sighing and swooning! āGiselleā was as stunningly dramatic as ever, and dear Ashley Bouder is just that girl. The effortless elegance with which she glided through those entrechats had me whispering āperfectionā like a mantra. That ghostly divertissement in Act II? My heart almost skipped a beat. But, letās not forget principal Marianela NuƱez. My word, she truly embodies the tragic fragility of Giselle! Itās a masterclass in pathos, you see. The whole performance had a hauntingly beautiful edge to it, and I couldn't help feeling a little Ć©pris by the story of heartbreak and betrayal.
At the Bolshoiā¦ Now, you know my darling, a trip to Moscow is non-negotiable when speaking of ballet. I adore the grand theatricality of their performances. This monthās Don Quixote was no different. Whatās the point of a Spanish masterpiece without an air of passion and spectacle, right? They absolutely nailed the flamboyant theatrics! Of course, there was no shortage of tour jetĆ©s, and even some Ć la seconde leaps so high they seemed to defy gravity. The Spanish-infused set design - that swirling flamenco skirt of a stage backdrop? Oh my! Absolutely divine. It all gave me a sense of warmth and unbridled excitement that simply made my petit coeur flutter!
But of course, November is never just about the big names! I do love discovering fresh and unexpected talents. I absolutely adore discovering those hidden gems and this month did not disappoint! Now, my dear, have you heard of the Berlin Staatsballet? The sheer beauty of Swan Lake that unfolded on their stage truly captured my attention! And let me tell you, a certain Mr. Igor Zelenski blew me away. The effortless precision and elegant strength - just perfection. I literally couldnāt stop myself from clapping at his incredible solo. His pas de deux with the lovely Anna Nikulina, was an absolute dream! And that graceful lift in the grand pas de deux ? Well, my darlings, letās just say I was swooning in my seat.
And now for some absolutely delightful news: ballet is breaking barriers! This year's American Ballet Theatre presented us with a unique and thoroughly captivating contemporary ballet. "The Letter" - it's all about love, longing, and finding a connection. And you simply must hear this, my dears. It featured a powerful blend of contemporary and classical techniques. And you simply must meet Misty Copeland. Such graceful, fluid movements. She completely stole the show. Thereās a raw emotional quality to her dancing that truly resonates.
Now, letās indulge in the beautiful world beyond the stageā¦ A month simply canāt go by without a visit to the world of fashion. My dears, the Dior autumn/winter show was utterly spectacular. Thereās a dreamlike, romantic element to it. It's a feast for the eyes and, to be honest, left me utterly Ć©merveillĆ©e! But Dior wasnāt the only house that caught my eye this monthā¦
Gucci did a superb job of combining those iconic luxury fabrics with those modern, whimsical designs that truly make me swoon. I am particularly fond of the delicate silk blouses and velvet coats - the palette, itās truly something special.
As ever, a month is simply not complete without some indulgence. So, my loves, you just HAVE to try this new Parisian tea shop I discovered. The most delightful macarons ā truly an Åuvre dāart! And I must mention the beautiful floral displays - all those lilies, roses, and lilies of the valley! My darling, just perfection. And the aroma of their Earl Grey tea...oh it was simply intoxicating. Such delicate, floral scents. I felt like I'd been transported to another era!
A Little Peek Behind the Curtain
Oh my darlings, my life may appear to be a glamorous whirl of ballets and fashion, but it's hard work! My training routine is rigorous. But I must tell you, I simply adore the challenge, the discipline. The magic happens long before those stage lights hit - from grueling rehearsals to meticulous costuming. And I often remind myself, every dancer is an artist. And our art form is nothing without that hard-earned beauty.
But darling, Iād never let the details of our profession cloud our enjoyment, right? I hope this monthās roundup of my favourite finds in the ballet world inspires you all to explore the beauty of dance. And as the festive season approaches, let us continue to be delighted by the power of dance to transport us all.
Love always,
Your Ballet Muse