Dearest readers, as the festive season descends upon us, enveloping the world in its glittering embrace, it's the perfect time to surrender to the ethereal grace of ballet. My dear darlings, December is a month for exquisite dance experiences, with premieres, revivals, and glittering performances taking place from London to New York, Moscow to Melbourne. This season, it seems, whispers of romance, drama, and sheer, breathtaking beauty. So let’s begin, shall we?
First, we have the glittering season of The Royal Ballet in London. From the grand grandeur of Covent Garden, to the elegant bustle backstage, it’s the heart and soul of the dance world. As a ballerina myself, this season holds a special allure. From a dazzling production of "The Nutcracker", that’s the quintessential festive offering, with a breathtaking staging by Peter Wright (his final gift to the company), and the young Clara, danced to perfection by the exquisite (let’s call her simply “E”), there’s also an extraordinary performance of “Manon”. This ballet, in the capable hands of Kenneth MacMillan, is passion, jealousy and doomed love, brought to a boiling point by (name), a young dancer who literally throws herself into this tragic tale. I watched, spellbound, mesmerized by the sheer depth of her expression and the beauty of her movements.
Over in New York, New York City Ballet have opened their doors for their winter season and a truly captivating offering, with a delightful performance of “The Sleeping Beauty”, featuring the dazzling, talented (name). A performance of great elegance, both from her dancing and from the exquisite costumes. (Name) gave a fresh interpretation to this classic, her movement and execution utterly beautiful and full of real depth of feeling, showing her star potential for years to come. And speaking of New York, the American Ballet Theatre are having a great season, full of dramatic flair, especially with the stunning (name) dancing with great feeling and power as “Giselle”. There are truly so many amazing ballet talents coming to the fore. This new generation is bursting with energy and talent!
I found myself in the captivating embrace of Moscow, a city that vibrates with cultural energy and artistic passion. The Bolshoi Ballet, as always, has opened their season with a flourish, this year featuring a captivating performance of “Swan Lake”, with (name), a ballerina who takes you to the very heart of the story, showing both innocence and great drama in equal measure, truly a force of nature. And on a stage which I never fail to find dazzling.
Beyond the well-trodden path, my dears, lies the enchanting world of independent dance companies. Here in Paris, the Ballet National de Marseille are showcasing a vibrant, bold piece, “L’Infini”. This truly is something different, not for the faint hearted! (Name) is, truly, an inspiring artist, pushing boundaries and reinventing herself and contemporary dance, breaking with tradition. In their modern and minimal set, the dancers flow effortlessly, embracing the physicality and the fluidity of their own individual interpretation, a true artistic and daring achievement.
Further afield, the Queensland Ballet are performing “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”. The delicate movement and elegant, vibrant staging create a whimsical world for the audience, where love is in the air. From the mischievous Puck, beautifully executed by (name), to the magical enchantment, this is a ballet which truly sparks your imagination and reminds you to see magic in the mundane.
From one side of the globe to another, I'm always delighted to share with you my very latest dance discoveries! In Sydney, the Sydney Dance Company is performing “The Lost World”. (name) takes us through a piece that combines elegance with power, movement, expression and raw beauty with a unique blend of choreography that brings to the fore, new choreographic language that is full of feeling. This production shows how ballet is so much more than mere prettiness, it truly is a deeply complex art form that demands a deep connection with your audience and (name) gives a performance that truly resonates.
In the heart of Tokyo, the Tokyo Ballet will perform “La Bayadere”. (name) gives a classic performance that is beautiful to behold. A traditional production, stunning in its visual opulence. For those wanting a taste of the sublime, this is classic dance with a Japanese twist!
But of course, it is not all about classical dance! For something truly spectacular I recommend "Dance of the Cranes” performed by Yang Liping Dance Company from Yunnan, China. With its mesmerising use of ethnic folk dance, their stage presence is simply breathtaking, truly one to see to believe.
Finally, to top off our exploration, let us head across the water to Argentina for a little Argentine tango. For those who seek a little heat, Tango Argentino is sensuality in motion, and (name) has a fire in his heart, a passion for the dance and a body to match that will have you spellbound! Their sensual moves show their great mastery and the energy of these talented performers will certainly give you that festive, uplifting feel!
As always, remember darlings, it’s not just the big companies that bring joy! In the heart of every town there’s a local dance school, where new stars are being born, ready to light up the dance floor of the world. Look out for them - the future stars, and the future of dance. So make a date for the dance this December! It is after all, the season of magic and for many of us it truly does feel as though we can truly fly, albeit on the tips of our toes.
And finally darling readers, let’s indulge in the pleasure of style as we journey into December, a time to be radiant and exquisite.
Let me guide you, let’s look to some trends! This December we are welcoming the festive touch, with luxurious velvets in midnight blues and emerald greens and those shimmering satins! I particularly adore these in scarlet or burnished golds, both so very elegant for the gala nights out.
A personal favourite for these chilly winter months is an opulent, velvet tuxedo style jacket in forest green, worn over a shimmering satin gown! The look is timeless, sophisticated, but yet also, very contemporary, just as ballet continues to delight us.
On your way to the theatre, be sure to accessorize your dance look with that stunning, glamorous touch. And do not forget, a luxurious bag or clutch can add an unforgettable final flourish, while some statement jewels, a sparkling silver chain necklace or even the touch of some faux pearls in a delicate string - always works well, darling!
And always a little black dress – can’t go wrong, it's an ageless beauty, darling.
And then a dramatic statement lip! I think this month, darlings, we should have red on our lips. Always a winning colour, a little glamour on your mouth always goes a long way! The rest of our make-up is minimal. A little highlight, some beautifully soft mascara and a flawless complexion. But remember, it’s all in the eyes darling! They must glitter, just like your soul.
Let’s end this month with the elegance of an art exhibition! For all you art enthusiasts be sure to see: “The Artist's Muse” currently showing at The Royal Academy in London.
And before you ask me, I highly recommend “The Dance of The Brushstrokes” currently exhibiting at the Pompidou Centre. It’s full of breathtaking contemporary artworks depicting dancers!
My dears, it's time to spread our wings! It’s time to revel in the artistry of movement, the beauty of dance, and the magic of theatre! Until next month, have the most fabulous time and happy December to you all.