AI Ballet Review 620

## December's Delights: A Ballerina's Diary Darling, can you believe it’s already December? The air is crisp, the streets sparkle with holiday lights, and the world feels positively bursting with Christmas cheer! This time of year always feels so magical. It’s also the perfect time to curl up by the fireplace with a cup of cocoa and a good ballet – or perhaps even venture out to see a show or two! Speaking of, this month has been absolutely overflowing with incredible productions – a whirlwind of artistry and emotion that’s left me breathless (and completely exhilarated, naturally). Here's a little glimpse into the ballet adventures that have kept me twirling and swaying in my finest dance shoes… **First Stop: The Parisian Opulence** Oh, darling, the sheer opulence of the Opéra Garnier! The grandeur alone left me speechless, but that's before even a single plié. This month, they presented **"Giselle"**, a classic I’ve seen performed countless times, yet somehow, in this exquisite setting, it felt brand new. The costumes! The set design! It was like stepping into a fairy tale, but with that unmistakable Parisian flair. • Let's not forget the talent. The dancers – ah, they were heavenly! **Olga Smirnova**, the lead ballerina, was truly mesmerizing. Her leaps, her grace, her expressions, they simply captured my heart. She infused every step with a profound sense of heartbreak and longing that was utterly captivating. And then there was **Vladimir Shklyarov**, as Albrecht. Oh, the way he poured his soul into the role. Every step was infused with passion and vulnerability, and you could literally feel the agony tearing him apart – simply divine! **Across the Atlantic: New York's Enchanting "Sleeping Beauty"** I was in New York for a few weeks and *had* to catch the New York City Ballet’s **"Sleeping Beauty."** It's not just a classic, it’s a legendary production that leaves you speechless! • The stage design, particularly the opulent set for the palace ballroom, felt so regal – almost as if we were watching royalty dance right before our eyes! • **Tiler Peck**, in the role of Aurora, absolutely *dazzled*. She moved with a lightness and elegance that was positively captivating. And **Sebastian K. Williamson** was the perfect Prince, all charm and swagger. Their chemistry? Absolutely *unforgettable*! • But beyond the romantic elements, it's a story with depth and grandeur – with enchanting fairies and menacing evil! The costumes, the choreography, and the music – everything simply brought the tale to life. It’s no wonder “Sleeping Beauty” remains a cornerstone of classical ballet – a production so vibrant and inspiring that it could only ever come from a city as pulsating as New York. **And in London's Majestic Theatre, a New Take on a Classic** London, always the heart of ballet! And this month they unveiled something extraordinary at the Royal Opera House: **"Swan Lake"** with a thrilling contemporary spin. • It's been decades since a company presented a production of "Swan Lake" so daring and original! It’s one of the most-loved ballet masterpieces, so you have to tread carefully when making changes – and the company at the Royal Opera House did it with a flourish. • They have reinvented the iconic white swan costume, transforming it into a contemporary, ethereal creation that feels modern without betraying the classic nature of the ballet. • The star of the show was, of course, the magnificent **Marianela Nuñez**. Oh, darling, I've adored her since her early days – her grace and power simply have no equal! And the way she brings the duality of Odette and Odile to life – it's truly spellbinding! The final scene is utterly heart-wrenching, a masterpiece of emotional expression that brings tears to the eyes – simply sublime! **Beyond the Stage: Beyond the Stage: Dance and Design at the Royal Opera House** • Of course, the Royal Opera House isn't just about ballet – it’s a hub of creativity. And I *had* to stop by the **"Dance and Design" exhibit**. An ode to the intersection of art, design and fashion, it delved into the incredible work of legendary dancers like Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev, and how they influenced the designers who brought their creations to life. Oh, the sheer beauty of the sketches, the photographs! This truly made me appreciate the work of the designers who give our performances their visual life! **The Next Stop: Beyond Ballet's Magic** • I’m not going to lie – I’m absolutely besotted with **“The Great Gatsby”**, now showing on the West End stage. I had no idea that ballet could be so excitingly incorporated into the theatrical production – it adds a completely new level of artistry, dynamism and sensuality to the piece! The dancing itself is magnificent, and it brought an unforgettable touch of elegance and sophistication to the performance. **Christmas in Paris, Christmas in London... ** Of course, no review of December ballet productions is complete without mentioning the most dazzling ballet spectacle of all! • Ah, **“The Nutcracker”**, how it brings magic to life! I simply *adore* the festive spirit that imbues every moment. Whether in Paris at the Opéra Garnier, in London’s Royal Albert Hall or in any of the hundreds of stages around the world, there's no other show that makes the holidays feel so truly enchanting! • Every production of “The Nutcracker” seems to carry its own unique essence, a magical flair that speaks directly to the hearts of children (and adults!) It truly makes you want to twirl around a snow-dusted Christmas tree, holding hands with someone you love, just to soak in all of that delightful Christmas magic! The magic of December, of course, is in the spirit of the season! It’s about the warmth, the togetherness, and that overwhelming sense of hope. Ballet offers an unforgettable way to connect with all of these emotions - and this month, I truly feel like my heart has been filled to the brim. So, whether you’re celebrating the holidays in your family home, taking in a magical ballet at the opera, or venturing to a stunning theatrical production – I hope you experience a December filled with the magic, artistry, and wonder that it offers! Until next month, darlings, dance on!