AI Ballet Review 631

Darling, it’s been such a whirlwind month! October is always such a crazy time for us, but this year felt particularly charged. So, I thought I’d regale you all with some inside scoop, from the glamorous premieres to the captivating encores.

My October opened at the exquisite **Paris Opera Ballet**, naturally. They premiered **Sergei Prokofiev**'s **“Romeo and Juliet”**, and darling, what a feast for the senses. **Margot Fonteyn** is a legend, but **Alice Renavand** gave the role such exquisite vulnerability and emotional depth; her portrayal of Juliet, an intoxicating mix of youthful longing and passionate abandon. It made me want to wear crimson and lace! The **Corps de Ballet**, impeccable as always, were absolutely phenomenal in that climactic ballroom scene; pure balletic magic!

Then I whisked myself off to the **Royal Opera House**, my home away from home, and just last week had the distinct pleasure of witnessing **The Sleeping Beauty**. Oh, to see that **Aurora**, shimmering under the golden light with such ethereal beauty, it made my heart soar! She simply floats across the stage, so effortless, such impeccable grace, and every movement speaks volumes. That iconic Bluebird variation! She executed it with breathtaking virtuosity, but there’s a lightness to her that takes your breath away.

Speaking of breathtaking, I simply can’t leave out the **New York City Ballet**. Oh, they know how to set the stage for an unforgettable performance! They staged the premiere of **Christopher Wheeldon**'s **“The American”** based on the life of **Martha Graham**, darling, I think we can safely say it’s a sure-fire hit. There are so many moving moments, especially the part where the dancers, embodying a variety of characters, seamlessly transitioned from lyrical passages to those angular, emotionally charged, signature **Graham** poses. Just phenomenal, truly mesmerizing. And those costumes, darlings! Oh my, every single detail perfectly captured the essence of **Martha’s** iconic style.

Just last night, I saw the most incredible contemporary work at the **Royal Ballet**. It was a bold take on **"Giselle"** by **Wayne McGregor**. A little bit experimental, definitely pushing the boundaries, but with an electrifying tension that had me glued to the edge of my seat! The way he brought modernity into a classic ballet...dare I say it was audacious. A must see for every dancer! The finale, an unforgettable display of passion and vulnerability, it made me want to leap right onto that stage and lose myself in the dance.

Of course, darling, it wouldn’t be a proper ballet season without **"The Nutcracker"**. And this year, we had **Birmingham Royal Ballet**'s take on the beloved Christmas classic. Their interpretation felt whimsical and enchanting; a delightful nod to tradition while showcasing fresh and captivating elements. It really captures that magical, fairytale vibe that only "Nutcracker" can. The costumes, especially the Sugar Plum Fairy’s, absolutely stunning! All that sparkly, shimmering, and the way she floated across the stage - just a vision!

This October truly reminded us of the captivating power of ballet and how each company breathes new life into our beloved classics. It’s an incredible gift they bestow upon us. Ballet is an art form that makes the impossible, possible. It allows us to journey beyond our daily routine, transporting us into universes we’d only dreamed of. Let’s face it, we could all use a little bit of that magic in our lives.

Here are just a few more highlights:

• The**National Ballet of Canada** captivated us with **“Swan Lake”**, the dancers’ artistry simply luminous; it made me yearn for a swan’s grace.
• In **Hamburg**, we were treated to a bold, thought-provoking interpretation of **“Don Quixote”** from the **Hamburg Ballet**. The flamenco-inspired movements felt so exhilarating and the entire performance had such a fiery spirit!
• Oh, darling, and we can’t forget the magnificent **American Ballet Theatre**, they’re just back from a tour and I hear their **“Sleeping Beauty”** was divine. Just imagine all those delicate pas de deux, the shimmering gowns, and a storybook romance made for ballet, pure magic.

And remember, darling, ballet is for everyone! From those grand classical productions to the more avant-garde performances, it takes you to different worlds. So next time you’re looking for a magical escape, don't forget to step into the world of ballet! And for all you budding ballerinas out there, just remember: elegance, grace, and unwavering dedication. Those are your mantras. Now if you’ll excuse me, darling, I have a dance class to attend! And don’t forget to pick up a copy of **“En Pointe”**, our December issue is a real showstopper. Filled with gorgeous visuals and a chat with **Misty Copeland**! Till next time, and always remember, “Step, Reach, Fly!”