The Ballerina's Diary: May 2021
My dears, the air is filled with the heady scent of springtime, and it seems the world of ballet is blooming with vibrant new productions and dazzling performances. Letâs dive into this monthâs highlights, from the cobbled streets of Paris to the glittering stages of New York and beyond, all with the panache and finesse of a well-executed arabesque.
Paris, Oh lĂ lĂ !
This month, Paris was a symphony of colour and elegance, and it simply wouldnât be the City of Lights without a performance at the iconic Palais Garnier. My dear friend, the radiant Ătoile, Clara, sent me a postcard from the rehearsal for "Giselle," and oh darling, the costume fittings are divine. The silvery-white tutus are truly breathtaking, capturing the ghostly innocence of the story, with the softest blush of pink embellishments - so delicate, they almost melt away into the moonlight. I heard whisperings about a new leading dancer taking on the role of Albrecht, but rumour has it, it's just another exquisite ballet dancer on the piste of achieving stardom. However, the highlight for me this month, darling, is the new production by Benjamin Millepied, an absolute darling who really is making waves. "A Modern Tale," a masterpiece for our times, explores the intricate complexities of modern-day life, but in a way that remains classically beautiful. Think cutting-edge choreography set against a backdrop of the Eiffel Tower at twilight. A vision of elegance and power.
London, A Whirlwind of Talent
London was a frenzy of activity this month, and no trip would be complete without a visit to the Royal Opera House, home to our much-loved Royal Ballet. The performance of âLa Bayadèreâ was truly a sight to behold. Imagine the stage ablaze with the most stunning, jewel-toned costumes - I must have swooned at least twenty times. And the dancing was spectacular! A seamless blend of classic and contemporary movement, and I was particularly moved by the solo performances of the corps de ballet - such elegance, precision, and strength! It's impossible to walk away from "La Bayadère" without feeling utterly mesmerized.
Speaking of mesmerizing, my fellow dancer, the darling Camille, was in London too! I caught up with her after the Royal Ballet Gala, and she spoke excitedly about "Swan Lake," which was truly a feast for the senses. I heard tell there were rumours of the dancers using pointe shoes with luminous soles for this performance, so the effect of the graceful swans, illuminated by the stage lights, must have been exquisite.
New York, Where the Beat Goes On
Oh, darling, New York is never one for letting anything stay stagnant! I found myself absolutely smitten by the New York City Balletâs Spring Gala. "Serenade," an absolute classic by George Balanchine, always brings me to my feet with its sheer beauty. Imagine a breathtaking stage, drenched in light, as the dancers soar and twirl, a timeless portrayal of graceful perfection. It truly was the epitome of grace and elegance. But there were so many other spectacular pieces! And darling, they've got this wonderful program of ballet-themed events that blend art with culinary delights. One event, the "Balanchine Bites" afternoon tea at the New York Public Library, looked simply divine! Imagine a beautiful spread, a gourmet journey alongside Balanchineâs exquisite masterpieces â ballet never looked so scrumptious!
Tokyo, The Land of Rising Inspiration
My friends, a trip to Tokyo is not for the faint of heart! The energy, the colour, and oh, the dedication to the craft! I was swept off my feet by the Tokyo Ballet's interpretation of "Don Quixote." The costumes alone are something to behold! Think flamenco dresses and boleros, bursting with vibrant hues of crimson and sapphire. Itâs just enough to inspire you to twirl around the cityâs most fashionable streets.
Australia, The Land of the Ballet Bows
Down under, darling, the Australian Ballet took to the stage with a modern classic: "Sleeping Beauty." I have always admired the graceful movements and refined storytelling that the Australian Ballet is famous for, and their production of "Sleeping Beauty" was truly breathtaking! The grand scale and impressive staging were magnificent, and the sheer artistry was mesmerizing, truly taking audiences on a fantastical journey.
The New Generation
From the grand theatres of Europe to the vibrant streets of Tokyo and beyond, it's clear that ballet is alive and thriving! This month, it was the younger generation who shone brightly. At the National Ballet of Canada, I heard of an incredibly talented, up-and-coming ballerina, Isabella, whose performance of "Romeo and Juliet" was both captivating and heartbreaking.
Speaking of new beginnings, I saw an advertisement for a wonderful new documentary about dance, featuring inspiring stories of young dancers from all corners of the world. It reminded me why I fell in love with ballet in the first place. The power and emotion that these incredible artists transmit, their sheer dedication to the craft, and the timeless stories they tell â thereâs nothing like it, my dears.
Letâs Take it Outside
And speaking of inspiration, it's wonderful to see more ballet experiences blossoming in outdoor settings! The Ballet of San Francisco, for example, was staging some lovely al fresco performances, dancing in gardens and at botanical gardens â what a way to soak up the sun and beauty. I've been craving the thrill of outdoor performance - I find it truly rejuvenates the senses and itâs simply fantastic to enjoy ballet under the starlit sky.
**This Monthâs Must-Haves**
- I just canât resist a pretty ballerina skirt. And darling, if it has a whimsical floral print - it's truly a must-have this month!
- A statement necklace that reminds you of a graceful swanâs neck. Imagine pearlescent gems that catch the light, oh so glamorous!
- This month is all about taking flight. So Iâm channeling my inner ballerina with a new pair of ballet pumps. A pair of crisp white ones for the most sophisticated chic.
**And my darling readers, this monthâs top ballet tip: The perfect stage makeup isnât just about covering blemishes - itâs all about emphasizing those strong, powerful features that dance can bring to the forefront. So darling, go for bold, defined eyebrows. And a smudged red lipstick will take any outfit from âoh, so cuteâ to utterly, irresistibly divine.**
I bid you adieu, my lovelies! Keep those beautiful legs stretching and those toes pointing. I look forward to chitchatting with you next month, about all things ballet, fashion, and glamour.
Yours always,
Madeline