Darlings,
Another month gone, how did June arrive already? Honestly, my poor little toes can hardly take it. All the traveling, and rehearsals for our new production in July (more on that later), plus the shows Iāve managed to squeeze in this month have left me feeling utterly, delightedly exhausted.
As for June itself? I must say I've been truly smitten with the dazzling array of ballet that has graced the worldās stages this month. From the elegant twirls of Paris to the powerhouse athleticism of New York, itās been a month to truly cherish.
**Paris, mon amour**
For the most stunningly beautiful production of June, we must, darling, absolutely venture to Paris, the city of romance and fashion. I am positively swooning over the ballet's āLe Spectre de la Roseā, which premiered at the Paris Opera this June, in a spectacular revival that was the perfect encapsulation of the haunting beauty this piece truly embodies. From the sheer delicacy of the ballerina's costumes, with their delicate layers and exquisite detailing, to the sweeping, emotional choreography, each note resonated through my very soul, creating an ethereal spectacle I'll never forget.
**London Calling**
Now, don't you think London deserves a little more attention? For a real touch of playful elegance, you simply had to be in the audience at the Royal Opera House this month for their revival of āCinderella.ā Now, the music - by Prokofiev - is of course iconic and simply stunning, but darling, it was the costumes that took my breath away. From the playful frocks of Cinderellaās stepsisters, to her ball gown - oh my, the sheer sparkle of the gown alone would have driven those royal gentlemen into a frenzy. It was pure perfection! And letās not forget the magnificent set design. Such stunning use of space! Truly brilliant.
**The Big Apple**
And speaking of brilliantā¦ if youāre looking for an electrifying performance with unparalleled athleticism and breathtaking power, then New York is where you need to be. This month's revival of "La Bayadere" by the New York City Ballet, showcased some of the most dynamic ballet talents in the world. The choreography was just astounding, a masterpiece of precision and movement, and darling, let's just talk about those leaps for a moment. A show for the truly passionate dancer, this one. My heart is still thumping!
Of course, the excitement this June hasn't been confined to just the grand opera houses. Some truly fascinating smaller productions have truly captured my attention. I adore discovering little gems of talent all over the world, donāt you?
**On a Smaller Stage** ā¢ Down in Buenos Aires, the āBallet Contemporaneo" company has premiered "Urban Landscapes", a stunningly original and refreshingly contemporary take on dance, with movements echoing the dynamism and energy of city life. This really is a testament to the boundless energy of young talent - raw, vibrant, truly exciting! ā¢And over in Tokyo, "Aoki & Company" has been causing quite the stir. The choreography - so delicate, so elegant - beautifully encapsulates Japanese culture, with elements of both classical ballet and traditional Kabuki theatre interwoven into one sublime performance. You could truly feel the spirit of the story, the emotions swirling through the theatre space, truly enchanting!
And finally, darling, before we dive into what next month has in store - and boy oh boy, it's a big one! - we must discuss the upcoming "Prima Ballerinaā awards ceremony. The night of the year we've all been waiting for! With so many incredible ballets gracing our stages this season, there are certainly going to be some fiercely fought for trophies this year. I canāt wait to see who triumphs!
Now, darling, on to July!
Our choreographer is young, but has an incredible mind - his interpretation of āSwan Lakeā is both fresh and familiar at the same time. He brings the traditional to life with an energetic dynamism I donāt think anyone has seen before! The dancers themselves? My girls are ready to take the stage and elevate the audience into another realm entirely. They will simply be spellbinding. We've poured our souls into every step, every pliĆ©, and it shows. If you have any ounce of curiosity about the artistry and the undying spirit of ballet - then you simply must make a reservation for āEnchantmentāsā performance of āSwan Lakeā this month.
Oh, my dears, I think my shoe's slipping! More on our āSwan Lakeā adventure next month, but until thenā¦
Keep twirling! And, as always, don't forget to indulge in the pure enchantment of ballet. It truly is the art of grace, of power and emotion.
XOXO Lola.