The December Issue: A Ballet and Art Diary from a Globetrotting Ballerina
Darlings! December is truly the most magical month. The air is crisp, the festive lights twinkle, and the ballet season explodes in full bloom across the globe. I've had the pleasure of whizzing around the world, taking in some of the most stunning productions - a whirlwind tour from Paris to Moscow! From the grandest classical masterpieces to daring new works, this December's ballet scene has been truly spectacular, leaving me both inspired and exhausted - as ever, a delicate dance between passion and champagne fueled revelry, itās not for the faint of heart.
A Touch of Russian Royalty: The Bolshoi
I couldnāt start this monthās diary without a foray to Moscow, the ultimate ballet destination, for an immersive journey through the magic of Tchaikovskyās "The Nutcracker". The Bolshoi's staging is magnificent, as ever, the costumes a vision in silk and jewels, a kaleidoscope of colour! The iconic Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, performed with exquisite grace and breathtaking extensions by Olga Smirnova - my goodness, sheās a true phenomenon.
This performance was, dare I say, more than just the ballet - it was a cultural experience. The opulence, the drama, the history emanating from the theatre walls, it felt like being transported back in time - the ballet was simply breathtaking, darling. Donāt just see it - feel it. It truly is the gift that keeps on giving. The sound of applause echoing after the final curtain, pure magic.
Parisian Perfection - The Palais Garnier
Paris always offers an air of refined sophistication, a haven for the truly elegant ballet aficionado. I was lucky enough to secure tickets to the iconic Paris Opera Balletās rendition of Giselle at the stunning Palais Garnier. This was a dream come true. The architecture of the Palais Garnier, an incredible example of 19th-century extravagance and opulence, makes this theatre such a powerful, immersive space.
My heart stopped at the exquisite beauty of Giselleās iconic white tulle gown. And, to witness a young Ballerina perform this masterpiece, in this historical masterpiece of a theatreā¦ Truly awe-inspiring!
The Paris Operaās choreography felt both classical and yet perfectly tailored to the talents of the current dancers, highlighting their unique qualities in a fresh and bold way.
I must also say the Parisian ballet world, especially after a certain global disruption that shall not be named - was overflowing with talent - new stars sparkling alongside seasoned veterans. The ballet itself was full of exquisite beauty and nuanced drama, reminding us why Giselle has stood the test of time. Truly an exquisite night, darlings.
An Encounter with Elegance: American Ballet Theatre
Across the pond to New York - the city that never sleeps - where I attended American Ballet Theatreās annual holiday gala at the Metropolitan Opera House. I felt a thrill run through my veins at the anticipation of this annual event, such an esteemed institution. This was truly a high-flying affair, and it did not disappoint! The program showcased an eclectic mix, a thrilling tapestry of the classic and the modern. American Ballet Theatre continues to showcase stunning technical ability in its company - each dancer possessing an undeniable artistry. What impressed me most was the programme's unique flavour - from a hauntingly beautiful pas de deux from MacMillanās "Romeo and Juliet," a masterpiece in every sense, to the energy and youthful passion of Jerome Robbins' āAfternoon of a Faun.ā My goodness, there were tears shed and jaws dropped! The sheer exhilarating and virtuosic talent at ABT never ceases to impress. Thereās a certain New York excitement, that raw energy you canāt quite pin down.
The Modern Muse
My diary wouldnāt be complete without venturing beyond the confines of the classical world! In San Francisco, I stumbled upon a gem at the American Contemporary Ballet - an exciting modern dance company that challenged every assumption I thought I had about movement.
With each piece they push the boundaries of what it means to be a dancer, an explorer of the human form - they moved in a truly mesmerising way. Their unique take on storytelling through dance was incredibly moving, challenging the very nature of ballet itself. Dare I say, this modern dance work provided a new perspective on beauty - beautiful in it's simplicity, honesty and direct emotional impact. They dared to question traditions, yet embraced innovation with an openness and enthusiasm I find inspiring. I urge every one of you to support companies like these that fearlessly redefine the artistic boundaries. The world needs a dash of contemporary ballet, don't you agree, my darlings?
Beyond the Stage - The Art Scene
From ballet back to fine art - this monthās travels led me to a whirlwind art adventure - an exploration of colour, texture, and emotion - how the creative spirit flows, both on and off the stage. I had a personal revelation - there's a deeply profound connection between the dance world and the fine art scene - two sides of the same creative coin!
The Impressionist Movement
A journey into the art scene naturally brought me to Paris, a sanctuary for the worldās greatest artists - the legendary MuseĆ© d'Orsay. Standing before Monet's shimmering "Water Lilies" or Renoirās joyous scenes of Parisian life, it felt as though the paintings themselves were alive - capturing movement in stillness. There is a parallel to dance in that moment - a freeze-frame of the dancer in a fleeting instant. These paintings truly captured a mood, an atmosphere, the essence of an ephemeral experience. They reminded me why we, as dancers, devote ourselves to this ephemeral art form - a love letter to the transient beauty of life. I spent hours lost in the captivating world of impressionism.
The Contemporary Challenge -
In contrast, I found myself dazzled by the raw power of contemporary art - visiting New Yorkās Museum of Modern Art to be exact - and I was lost in the abstract works of Rothko - experiencing pure emotion through vibrant bursts of colour and large canvases. The paintings evoked the feelings of movement, the flow and intensity of the dancers, as if dancing across a vast canvas. There's a similarity to dance - not a literal representation of movement, but a deeper language of feeling and emotion. I left New York with my head swirling, my senses heightened by this art world, and ready to reimagine what a dancer can be and what dance can be - dare I say it, art in its rawest, most beautiful form!
December Delights: Holiday Favourites -
And as the month drew to a close, I was ready for the holiday season - a time to reconnect, reflect and unwind. But I know this will be a brief interlude, as my ballet boots are itching to return to the stage, ready to be swept away by the next magnificent performance.
This month, however, I will savour the little pleasures:
A Few December Delights:
- A winter wonderland walk, accompanied by the magical snow falling all around.
- Snuggling into the sofa, fire crackling, and watching an enchanting holiday ballet film.
- Enjoying a steaming cup of cocoa, laced with the finest whipped cream - the most divine comfort treat.
Au Revoir for Now, Darling!
Till next monthā¦