Darlings, Another month has pirouetted by and it's simply thrilling to see the international dance scene bursting with such exciting talent. Let me share my recent discoveries from my globe-trotting travels!
The Imperial, oh the Imperial...I couldn’t possibly start this month's round-up without a deep bow to the exquisite artistry of the Imperial Ballet. They simply never fail to leave me utterly enthralled. In the grandeur of the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, the corps de ballet were ethereal and disciplined - it was simply perfection. The Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow had a new production of Tchaikovsky's *Swan Lake*, the set was simply breathtaking, with the use of 3D projections and the lake scene simply magical, especially with that enchanting score.
It was so lovely to see the Bolshoi back in their home after their extensive renovations. The acoustics are simply divine. And I couldn't have imagined a better showcase for that remarkable young prima ballerina, Anya, who dances with the most exquisite fluidity. She literally melts across the stage, and I was completely transfixed by her effortless jumps. And her partnering with Dmitri was so tender - you can truly feel the love story unfold through their movements. The chemistry they shared onstage is rare.
A Whirlwind in the East...Oh darling, you simply must fly to Tokyo! I recently saw a truly dazzling contemporary dance production by the *New Tokyo Ballet*. They performed at the Bunkyo Civic Hall, which is simply beautiful. This company is bursting with creativity and vigour and there's a raw passion that shines through in every movement. I saw their adaptation of 'The Rite of Spring'. It was quite revolutionary! I'm simply mad about the costumes, so vibrant and chic. You'll see the costumes on the front page of every fashion magazine next season, just you wait! And there's such athleticism! The male dancers are incredible!
In China, I fell in love with a beautifully unique piece in Guangzhou. It wasn’t strictly ballet but it drew me in immediately, at the Guangzhou Grand Theatre, called 'The Dance of the Phoenix.' This new troupe, *The Guangzhou Modern Dance Company,* fused the elegance of ballet with a very Chinese storytelling tradition. The music, a beautiful mix of ancient Chinese instruments with modern harmonies, really transports you to another time and place. They are incredibly original.
Of course, Beijing has the magnificent National Grand Theatre. Such exquisite craftsmanship and that architectural glass roof, simply stunning! I always feel I've been whisked into another world! They have a new show, 'A Symphony of Silks' featuring some incredible costumes inspired by the ancient Chinese dynasties, each one a breathtaking vision in satins and velvets, each embroidered to perfection with fine threads. The whole performance felt very opulent. I loved every second of it. It really was truly spectacular!
And back in the West....The Royal Ballet at the Royal Opera House, in London, oh what an evening! I saw *Giselle* and it left me utterly heartbroken and thrilled. They perfectly balanced drama with the ballet's sheer technical skill. There's so much talent on that stage. The story always moves me to tears. And how much I miss the graceful and sublime movement of Sylvie Guillem! The company is very much blessed to have the talented Alina Cojocaru. She danced so beautifully with a very particular lightness of movement, that leaves her so incredibly elegant, and her turns are quite breathtaking. I saw that exquisite expression of heartbreak that brought me to the edge of my seat.
The American scene..Across the pond, the American Ballet Theatre at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York was simply divine. I adored the exquisite Balanchine work they presented! The precision of their moves and that beautifully understated elegance is the very epitome of ballet! It’s always so refreshing to watch dancers who move with such confidence and grace, particularly the work of their very talented dancers - Joseph and Miranda.
Of course, I couldn't possibly end this month without mentioning the American Ballet Theatre. They performed at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, and I must say, their *Romeo and Juliet* was simply divine. A truly unforgettable experience! I'm completely in awe of the depth of emotion that they put onto that stage. Such exquisite artistry. And how much I admire that incredible ballerina, Julie, the lead dancer, who truly embodies Juliet! It's always a joy to watch her move across the stage, especially with that breathtaking tenderness, oh my! I was completely moved to tears.
Dancing on the Cutting Edge.Darling, as always I’m forever on the lookout for the next wave in contemporary dance. The last few months I've seen several wonderful pieces which are certainly a reflection of what's happening in dance right now and it feels quite revolutionary.
The Martha Graham Dance Company, oh how I simply adore them! I just saw 'Night Journey' and the piece was utterly thrilling. And what incredible artistry! It was simply a powerful experience. That primal beauty and sensuality - simply mesmerising. This piece explored female strength, such incredible power! I have never been so deeply moved.
And in Amsterdam, The Nederlands Dans Theater had a production which I found utterly exhilarating! ‘A New Kind of Madness’ showcased that new kind of freedom so many dance companies are experimenting with now, I really loved their unique approach, mixing some unusual elements including modern dance, physical theatre, with even elements of circus performance. Such an incredible journey. I simply adore the way contemporary dance challenges your expectations, pushing the boundaries with such breathtaking, fearless work, making a truly dynamic, and modern dance statement.
But, for a touch of pure, sophisticated glamour, there's really nothing to beat seeing the classic productions. Let me know if you'd like any recommendations! Yours truly, Antonia