Darling, July has brought such a kaleidoscope of talent onto the international stage, my calendar has been practically bursting. The summer's a time for airy performances and the lighter side of ballet, so it's the perfect season to find a beautiful venue, grab your opera glasses and let your mind be carried away. From the cobbled streets of Paris to the balmy evenings of Sydney, I've gathered the cream of the crop for your delectation. Hereâs my take on the highlights - itâs quite a list, you know - so take your time with your cucumber sandwich and get ready to take a deep breath. Let's dive in!
Paris, mon amour
Paris is, as ever, the epicentre of stylish chic, but a mere trip down the Champs-ElysĂ©es doesn't tell the whole story, darlings! The true flavour of the City of Lights comes from its arts, and this monthâs offerings havenât disappointed. The Ballet de lâOpĂ©ra de Paris are the absolute cream, darling. Their June gala was an absolute must-see â truly breath-taking - with costumes and sets to rival any catwalk in Paris and a program showcasing their superb ensemble. They brought such a light and whimsical quality to their take on "Les Sylphides", the famous story of a sylph that bewitches a young man. I found the choreography quite daring - Iâm told the choreographer is very young, just starting out in his career, but there was a real maturity and flair that quite surprised me. And, I do love a little daring. Their performances of "La BayadĂšre" at the Palais Garnier have also been quite superb. The final scene - oh darling! I gasped, I actually gasped. So beautiful it brought a tear to the eye, even one of this seasoned professional's. Of course, you'll find my favourite Ă©toile there, the sensational Delphine in all her exquisite, divine, captivating glory. I could watch her all day. What elegance, what precision! But don't forget about Marie Agnes, the talented Principal. Her athleticism is remarkable - an extraordinary powerhouse. The costumes were by the inimitable Christian Lacroix â a masterpiece. If you're in Paris and havenât experienced their take on the classics, do book a ticket and treat yourself to an evening to remember.
The Royal Balletâs new season
As ever, The Royal Ballet opened the month in Covent Garden, and let me tell you, darling, there wasnât a dry eye in the house! It was a rather nostalgic affair. A celebration of the iconic partnerships that we know and love so dearly. Their revival of Frederick Ashtonâs "La Fille Mal GardĂ©e" starring the remarkable Mara Galletti was pure, exquisite beauty. Such passion, so expressive - what talent! The sets by Osbert Lancaster brought a touch of 19th century charm - simply charming. I was rather disappointed to see the ever-so-lovely Darcey Bussell was absent for much of the early summer season. Apparently a bout of influenza had sent her to bed for a few weeks, darling! We were all most worried but sheâs back to full health and grace now. I believe sheâll be starring in MacMillanâs âManonâ, which will run until the end of August. Such an absolute must-see, it's truly a remarkable ballet.
And on the other side of the worldâŠ
The Australians have done a fine job, darlings, particularly in Sydney. The Australian Ballet's "Giselle" was a breath of fresh air. A bold, innovative reinterpretation of the classic. They kept the romance, but the ending - oh darling! - I really must have shrieked with surprise. You wouldn't believe it, if you weren't there. An ending that makes you question the very essence of good versus evil - brilliant! They even brought in the original sets and costumes - an amazing touch - you could feel the history of this ballet hanging in the air. And who do we have to thank for this superb work? The wonderful, the remarkable, the sensational, Wayne McGregor! Heâs so daring - just like our very own Delphine, oh my! So stylish and modern. I would advise wearing your most avant garde outfit, the kind with those interesting lines, darlings, and head to the theatre as soon as you can. It's an experience, darlings, truly an experience.
Moscow Ballet's Grand Tour
Speaking of international stars, let's not forget Moscow Ballet. They're in America again - thatâs the fourth month in a row, darling, what a feat! And they haven't let up, not a moment of rest. The tour's theme is, aptly, âGreat Russian Fairy Tales.â Their choreography is simply sensational. It reminds me, of course, of Diaghilev - how wonderfully modern it is, darling. You can't forget this man's role in the early years of ballet - truly the pioneer, the darling, the innovator. I even believe he put the very name âBallet Russesâ on the map - quite an extraordinary legacy, I would say. I saw âSwan Lakeâ with its classic Petipa choreography at the Gershwin Theatre and was simply blown away - the final act - the pas de deux - and of course, the black swan⊠truly magnificent. I saw tears, darling, real tears, not just from the dancers, but the entire audience. Such emotional performances, and the costumes... I was dazzled, completely dazzled.
But what of the future?
I believe August is shaping up to be just as spectacular as July, my dears. The Royal Ballet has something very special in store: âSleeping Beauty.â A very much anticipated new production featuring some magnificent, luxurious designs. And I believe there are rumours afoot about an interesting cast change, but more about that next month, darlings. As always, we mustnât spoil the surprise.
Not just a stage...
And Iâd be remiss if I didnât mention some remarkable developments on the film and TV scene, darling. Iâm most excited about a new documentary series that begins airing on the BBC in August: âA Century of Dance.â This looks like it'll be quite the special. With interviews and excerpts from iconic productions of the last 100 years. You'll get a glimpse behind the scenes, into the private world of some of the most important ballet dancers and choreographers in the world, even an exclusive interview with Martha Graham. Yes, it's an extraordinary program. And in a complete turn from the ethereal, ballet film fans should be most interested in the long-awaited sequel to the rather popular, but rather silly film âCentre Stageâ, with its sequel âCentre Stage 2â. Itâs released next month and I must confess to be most excited to see what the sequel will bring.
Well, my darlings, it's already past midnight. But I wouldnât have it any other way. You'll find me tucked away in the library with a well-worn copy of Nijinsky's Diaries. Enjoy your ballets, I'll be dreaming of those beautiful figures, of a perfectly balanced arabesque. Until next month.