AI Ballet Review 635

Darling, March is always such a fabulous month. The weather starts to tease us with glimpses of spring and the cultural scene is positively buzzing! Ballet companies across the globe are back with spectacular offerings, and my dears, let me tell you, I have seen it all this month!

From the dazzling opulence of the Bolshoi to the exquisite intimacy of the Royal Ballet, we've been treated to a breathtaking variety of productions that left me spellbound. The sheer talent and artistry on display was simply divine. Let's delve into the highlights, shall we?

Oh, the grandeur of the Bolshoi! It is always a treat to experience the opulent setting of this iconic theatre, and for this month's "Swan Lake," the atmosphere was electrifying. Svetlana Zakharova, a true legend, was breathtakingly beautiful and fluid as Odette, while her portrayal of the tormented, bewitched swan was truly haunting.

The dancing was sublime - each movement, each pirouette, was executed with an effortless precision and power that is simply mesmerizing. And of course, the sheer drama and beauty of the corps de ballet's performance is an absolute spectacle, sending goosebumps all over me!

Speaking of, that costume for Odette? Pure couture perfection! It was shimmering with crystals and beads, and when she swirled across the stage it literally sparkled under the lights!

While I confess, the music could have been a little less "boom boom," the Bolshoi Orchestra’s performance was nevertheless passionate and vibrant. This production is a must-see, darlings, a timeless masterpiece performed with dazzling skill and emotion.

From the dramatic to the avant-garde, the Netherlands Dans Theater has taken on a powerful, modern approach to storytelling with its latest production, "The 7 Deadly Sins." Set to Kurt Weill’s captivating music, it's a powerful exploration of the vices and virtues of humanity, through innovative, dynamic choreography.

Now, I won't lie - some parts had me scratching my head. This certainly isn't the traditional ballet, darlings. The dancers take us on a whirlwind of contortion, powerful jumps, and even a little mime, to express their emotional journeys in truly unconventional ways.

I was particularly mesmerized by the incredible athleticism and emotional intensity the dancers brought to each of their personified "sins." Their bodies spoke a language of strength and fragility simultaneously, which was both intimidating and moving. The costumes, too, were phenomenal - stark and striking, playing beautifully against the dramatic black backdrop.

Now back to my London home, where the Royal Ballet delivered an utterly captivating performance of "Manon." This production is always a favourite amongst my circle of balletomanes and rightly so! With breathtaking choreography, a score that is simply heartbreaking in its beauty, and the sheer drama of Manon's passionate journey, it was impossible not to be swept away.

Margot Fonteyn’s original choreography is both graceful and challenging. The iconic "Flower Scene" with its fluid, almost delicate movement, evokes such beautiful, wistful longing in Manon, and when she gives in to desire in the final duet, you are left utterly breathless!

As for costumes, well darling, they were pure Parisian elegance, from Manon's exquisitely embroidered gowns to Lescaut’s handsome attire. I felt like I had been whisked back to the grand boudoirs of eighteenth century France. And that dramatic climax? Pure genius!

"The Nutcracker" is always a classic favourite, especially during December, but seeing Kyoto Ballet's performance in March was something special!

This vibrant production took us to a world filled with vibrant colour and enchanting scenery. The Kyoto dancers are a credit to Japan – their elegance and precision were phenomenal, especially as the adorable, snow-covered mice!

The staging was simple but enchanting. I felt transported to the Christmas-time spectacle with a little bit of the mystical charm of the East. This was an extraordinary fusion of art and culture, perfect for an audience of any age, but truly an inspiration for the next generation of dancers, I would imagine.

For all of us in the ballet world, March saw another key event, the annual Prix de Lausanne! Oh, how exciting is it to watch these incredible young dancers battle for their chance to make it in the professional world!

From all corners of the globe they arrive, each possessing talent beyond their years, each with such youthful exuberance and passion for their art. You could really feel the anticipation and tension building as the competition intensified! The judges, themselves esteemed figures of the ballet world, have a very tough job indeed, to choose only a few dancers from the pool of exceptional talent on stage.

As always, there were performances that moved me beyond words - pure exquisite grace, powerful jumps and breathtaking extension. These are the stars of the future, and seeing their dreams taking flight is simply inspiring.

But dear readers, don't let these stellar shows eclipse other gems out there waiting to be discovered. This month, I have had the privilege to take in several exciting performances at smaller venues and intimate dance festivals - the hidden gems of the ballet scene.

• Birmingham Royal Ballet's "Giselle." Birmingham, the birthplace of this masterpiece, continues to offer breathtaking productions! This company is full of such raw talent, each step executed with heart and sincerity.
• Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at London's Sadler’s Wells. Now here is a troupe that always delivers passion and a remarkable emotional depth. They brought their captivating performance of "Revelations" to the UK, a production steeped in the traditions and experiences of African-Americans in the U.S.A. The dancers expressed so much joy, anguish, and spirituality - it was truly awe-inspiring.
• New York City Ballet at Lincoln Center, where choreography is everything! From traditional classical ballet to bold new works, the dance was simply exhilarating. It was great to see both the dancers and choreographers continually pushing boundaries and reinventing the art form. I do hope to catch some of the innovative works coming from this troupe in the upcoming seasons!
• Ballet for All, London. For those seeking something truly inspiring, I suggest attending this organization’s performance at the Lilian Baylis Studio! I am particularly impressed with the diverse and inclusive message of the organization, catering to all levels of experience and backgrounds. And it was such a delight to watch so much unbridled talent, such raw, joyful enthusiasm for the art of ballet – a truly heartwarming experience.

My dearest readers, if there's anything I have learnt this March – it is that ballet continues to inspire and captivate. I’m truly grateful for this beautiful art form that brings us joy, evokes powerful emotions, and transports us to other worlds. And my fellow ballet lovers, do continue to cherish these magical moments, the breathtaking talent and beauty, that is ballet, all through the season and beyond!