December 2020
The December Issue
Darlings! I hope you are all in the festive spirit as we kick off December with our curated guide to the best of ballet across the globe this season! My darlings, this is going to be a month full of sparkling performances and truly unforgettable moments. From the opulence of the Bolshoi to the cutting-edge innovation of the Royal Danish, it’s an absolute smorgasbord of art and beauty!
And oh, the excitement! The buzz this season is all about Giselle. She's back in full force, and trust me, she’s looking hotter than ever! Everyone is doing Giselle – even my old teacher’s poodle (just kidding!).
First up, I simply must gush about Svetlana Zakharova’s *Giselle* in Moscow. She brought her signature intensity, grace and a certain heart-wrenching vulnerability that sent shivers down my spine. Svetlana is a force to be reckoned with, a captivating presence on stage, and honestly, a woman who understands the *true* essence of Giselle's tragedy! The Bolshoi’s opulent costumes, coupled with Tchaikovsky’s glorious score, just cemented this as the most visually and emotionally satisfying production I've seen in years. Plus, don’t get me started on the champagne flutes at intermission... so civilized.
Now, let's be perfectly honest: I do adore a bit of pomp and ceremony. But, every once in a while, I crave a more...dare I say, *modern*? approach to the classic. The Royal Danish Ballet took *Giselle* in a new direction this December with an all-female interpretation, casting Martha Graham in the role of Albrecht, which frankly, had the audience buzzing like bees! Yes, there were those in the audience who weren’t ready for such an audacious approach. But personally? I loved it! Martha, despite being an absolute angel, infused Albrecht with this undeniable sensuality and a raw masculinity. It was pure magic! She had the critics absolutely raving and is rumoured to be getting a solo offer with the Nederlands Dans Theater.
For my fellow art devotees with an eclectic taste, a trip to Paris was a must this month. The Opéra de Paris did not disappoint! This year’s production of *Romeo & Juliet*, starring Olga Smirnova, felt particularly personal. Olga has this remarkable gift, the ability to capture raw emotion. She had the audience totally captivated, the silence when Juliet's tragic death unfolded was absolutely deafening! What made the evening even more exciting was the introduction of a new choreographer, Camille A. Brown. She used contemporary techniques that had a certain vibrancy, juxtaposing the classic elements. Her choreography perfectly accentuated the emotions in this timeless story, proving her undeniable talent to breathe new life into familiar stories.
Now, for a moment of blissful escapism, I have to mention The Nutcracker. The magic of the holiday season is, in my humble opinion, best captured by this heartwarming ballet. I absolutely adored the Royal Ballet’s production. This version really embraced the whimsical element. I'd love to tell you that it was *completely* traditional but, truth be told, they did inject a bit of modern edge, mainly through some incredible costumes by Christopher Wheeldon. You see, I am such a sucker for intricate designs, darling! Let's just say my wardrobe was utterly green with envy, it was that magnificent!
Here’s a quick roundup of some other delightful treats that you shouldn't miss:
- American Ballet Theatre‘s *The Sleeping Beauty*, starring the luminous Misty Copeland, was a must-see for all classic ballet lovers!
- The San Francisco Ballet offered up a modern interpretation of *Swan Lake* in a gorgeous black and white theme. You’d expect such avant-garde creativity from the west coast, really!
- The Bolshoi put on an epic performance of *Don Quixote*! Such sheer energy and, quite frankly, dazzling showmanship from their male dancers. I nearly broke a nail on the handrail because of the *swooning*!
- And for something utterly spectacular and quite frankly, mesmerizing: New York City Ballet debuted a new production of *Diamonds* choreographed by the ever-brilliant Justin Peck.
But dear readers, there is so much more than just ballet. For those who appreciate an alternative perspective on artistry, here’s a little something for you!
I just saw the most fascinating and dare I say, poignant exhibition of contemporary dance photography at The Saatchi Gallery! A must-visit, for sure. This showcase truly captured the powerful expressiveness of the human body and pushed the boundaries of artistic representation.
Also, have you seen the incredible exhibit at the National Gallery showcasing costumes designed by Christian Lacroix? His design for *The Nutcracker*, for the Stuttgart Ballet was simply breathtaking! Lacroix is a true master at blending historical silhouettes with contemporary flourishes. The intricate detailing and playful use of color made me *weak* at the knees.
Honestly, with this whirlwind of amazing events, December has been a month to remember. I truly am living my best life! The ballet world keeps throwing the most wonderful opportunities my way. And I, of course, embrace them all with open arms. I must say, dear readers, I wouldn't have it any other way.
Merry Christmas!
With Love,
Olivia X