A Flutter of Tutus Around the World - February 2001
Darlings, can you believe it's February already? It feels like just yesterday I was sipping champagne at the opening night of the Royal Ballet's Nutcracker, and here we are, on the cusp of spring! The world of ballet, however, shows no sign of slowing down. My darling friend and I were positively fluttering with excitement at the prospect of our little jaunt around the world to see what's en pointe and en vogue this month.
New York, New York - A Whirlwind of Talent at the City Ballet
First stop, darling, the Big Apple. I simply adore the energy of New York! Now, I know the New York City Ballet always boasts a glittering roster, but this month theyâve really outdone themselves. The highlight, hands down, was the world premiere of Alexei Ratmansky's new piece, Shostakovich Trilogy. Darling, the man has a gift. The choreography was so fluid, so intricately woven with the music â pure poetry in motion. The dancers, simply sensational! A special shout out to the ever-luminous Maria Kowroski, her performance was utterly breathtaking. The sheer power of those tours, the way she seemed to fly across the stage. Divine! Then, there was the luminous Sara Mearns â what a ballerina. She possesses such strength and artistry, it's almost impossible to look away.
But darling, that's not all! Christopher Wheeldon's Polyphonia, set to the incredible music of the Shostakovich string quartets, was truly a feast for the senses. Such beautifully balanced lines, the elegance of it all, I almost thought I was back in the Belle Epoque! I just can't say enough about the genius of Christopher, the way he creates movement that both shocks and excites.
Paris, Mon Amour - A Romantic Encounter with the Ătoile
After the bustling energy of New York, Paris offered a welcome breath of romance. Itâs always a joy to visit the OpĂ©ra de Paris and their program this month simply confirmed what we all know â theyâve got a troupe of absolute stars. You see, thereâs something truly special about French ballet. Their grace and fluidity are unmatched. Their way with the adagios... sigh. They simply melt your heart, and there's such an aura of passion and artistry about their performance that makes every gesture, every leap, just exquisite.
I must confess, darling, I was smitten with the rising Ă©toile, Marie-AgnĂšs Gillot. Her performance in the iconic La BayadĂšre, a production as glamorous and extravagant as a Parisian couture show, was truly dazzling. A real tour-de-force. Her performance of the iconic âShadow Variationâ was as beautiful as a vision in the night. Her extensions â a dream, her grace, otherworldly. You see, darlings, Marie-AgnĂšs truly embodies that spirit of joie de vivre and captivating charisma that the French know so well. Simply mesmerizing.
London - Tradition and Innovation at the Royal Ballet
Home is always the best, wouldn't you agree, darling? The Royal Ballet never fails to delight and inspire, and this month is no exception. A particularly unforgettable experience was a triple bill that brought together a captivating mix of classical, contemporary and even a touch of the avant-garde. The classic Swan Lake was given a fresh interpretation by Kevin McKenzie, highlighting the technical prowess of the company â but oh my darling, donât you love a good twist? The choreography was so modern, yet so classical at the same time. A masterclass in balance. Then, we had the bold and breathtaking Chroma, by Wayne McGregor, a symphony of motion that took us on a thrilling and mesmerizing journey of contemporary dance.
Oh, and what's a season at the Royal without a dose of the flamboyant and daring? We were absolutely enchanted by a performance of Kenneth MacMillan's Manon, set to the intoxicating score of Jules Massenet. You simply can't deny the power and drama of the piece. There was the incredible talent of Natalia Osipova â simply electric, so strong and fierce. And Marianela NĂșñez, her portrayal of Manon was pure heartbreak. A truly transformative performance. This woman's command of both classical and dramatic expression is truly breathtaking. We couldn't have asked for a better performance.
Beyond Europe â The Magic of Japan and the Intensity of Brazil
Darling, our little ballet escapade took us further afield, to Japan. Oh, Tokyo! The atmosphere is intoxicating! At the prestigious Tokyo Ballet, the Sleeping Beauty production left me spellbound. It's such a treat to see classic ballet done in this unique way. I simply loved the attention to detail, the exquisite costumes, the meticulous execution of every step â every element was simply perfection.
I will say, however, that my biggest discovery this month came in Rio de Janeiro! A beautiful, lively city, so vibrant and bursting with passion, and the dance reflected that same energy perfectly! The ballet scene in Brazil is thriving. What a revelation to discover a young troupe like the Companhia Brasileira de Dança! I was absolutely captivated by their powerful and vibrant performance in O Canto das Tribos. Their fiery intensity, their visceral connection to the music - you simply could not take your eyes off them. What raw talent, darlings, so raw and honest and just beautiful.
Fashion and Elegance on the Sidelines
Naturally, darling, the excitement doesn't end there! My own style and the fashion at the ballet, you know I can't leave that out! Letâs just say my little trip around the world provided ample inspiration. In New York, the sleek lines and effortless elegance of The Row â the perfect contrast to the dynamism of the dance, so cool yet sophisticated. A true testament to minimalist chic. In Paris, the air of timeless elegance from Chanel was simply divine â classic lines, beautifully tailored fabrics. In London, a touch of vintage chic, the charm of Vivienne Westwood was definitely in the air, those iconic polka dots a true ode to a bygone era of rock 'n' roll and ballet glamour. As for Japan? I have to say I was simply captivated by the exquisite elegance and tradition of designers like Comme des Garçons, their approach to clothing so intricate and delicate, much like the ballets I had seen there.
And oh, darling, the Brazil, my heart! So much of the clothing reflected the vibrancy of the dancers and the culture. I saw such bold, expressive colours and designs, inspired by nature and the art of samba. A true symphony of colours that resonated with the beauty and raw passion of the dance. I must admit I was deeply inspired. My friend, letâs just say my wardrobe has never been more in need of an update!
So darlings, there you have it, my little glimpse into the whirlwind of February ballet. With so much incredible talent, stunning productions, and artistic expression taking place all around the world, itâs a time of genuine excitement for the world of ballet, wouldn't you say? Oh, the places weâll go and the beautiful dance we will see. Now, my dears, letâs grab our champagne and enjoy the show!