A Dance Through October: A Season of Swirls and Spirals
Dearest readers, October – the month of auburn leaves and crisp air, of cobwebbed corners and cosy evenings. And, for us dancers, it's the season for a renewed surge of inspiration. As the chill settles in, the world of ballet blossoms with an abundance of productions that truly embody the art's vibrant, ever-evolving essence. From the venerable stages of Europe to the burgeoning studios of Asia, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing breathtaking displays of artistry, all echoing the exquisite spirit of October. London's Ballet Blitz:
Let's start at the heart of it all, the grand stage of the Royal Opera House. October opened with the ‘Swan Lake' – oh, that swan lake. Each pirouette of Natalia Osipova's swan, a sigh of tragic beauty. I’m not one for romantic notions, but those choreographed moves... she brought me right back to the youthful, hopeful days of my first ballets. My dear Darcey Bussell as Odette was, of course, divine – as captivating and graceful as ever. The new choreography, with its bold use of modern lighting and a hint of darkness, made the traditional story feel so fresh, almost Gothic in its intensity. But the London stage isn’t limited to classical pieces. At the Sadler’s Wells Theatre, "Black Swan," with its striking modern aesthetic, was electric. Each performance pulsed with raw energy and raw emotion, the dancers, their bodies a blur of movement, conveying a powerful sense of desire, pain and, ultimately, hope. The music, by the talented Thomas Adès, echoed the drama with boldness and a thrilling intensity, completing a stunning tapestry of dance and emotion. The whole thing left me breathless, a sensation that still lingers as I write these very words. Europe's Grand Tour:
My recent European travels led me to the majestic Vienna State Opera, the very place where my dreams took flight as a young girl. The company's production of "Giselle" was an unforgettable journey back to a beloved classical masterpiece. A perfect performance for a city that thrives on tradition – every element so perfectly executed, from the intricate steps to the sheer grace of the dancers' movements. And the costuming, exquisite, of course. Later, I had the privilege of attending the premiere of "Firebird" at the Bolshoi in Moscow. This was not a ballet I'd experienced before, and what a discovery it was. The stage came alive with dazzling colors and fantastical creatures, the music, rich and evocative. The firebird, the story’s namesake, was played by a talented ballerina named Anya, her every movement imbued with a captivating magic. Moscow is a city known for its passion and drama – it truly lives within their ballet, and it resonated in this performance. I have a new favourite! The Rising Stars of Asia:
From Europe’s rich tradition to Asia's burgeoning dance scene – my travels took me next to the Hong Kong Arts Festival, where I witnesses an unexpected gem. A group of young dancers, the ‘Sky Dance Collective,' captivated with their contemporary choreography. Their style, innovative and raw, echoed the spirit of Hong Kong, the city's unique dynamism pulsing within each movement. It is a testament to the evolving art of ballet, its constant reinvention, its refusal to be confined by convention. And in Japan, a whirlwind of colour and beauty! I attended a production of "Madame Butterfly" at the National Bunraku Theatre in Osaka. The dance is traditionally a Japanese one, involving dramatic use of costumes and face masks, but it had an undeniable ballet sensibility. The performance was both poignant and enchanting. Musings:
In all these performances, from the grand tradition of Europe to the vibrant experimentation of Asia, the fundamental essence of ballet was evident: its ability to captivate us with its fluidity, grace, and emotion. Each dancer, from the most experienced to the youngest newcomer, brings a unique energy, a unique story. They’re all contributing to this timeless art. But what impresses me the most this month are the bold reinterpretations we've seen. Classical ballets are getting an edgy refresh – modern lighting, a deeper dive into character, a different tone, an overall more contemporary feel. There's a new respect for history but a refusal to let it box them in. It’s an exciting evolution and a true testament to the power of dance to evolve and adapt to the times. This October, I encourage you to experience the enchantment of the dance world. Whether it’s a grand classical performance or a choreographed experiment at a smaller stage, every dance holds the power to touch us with a beauty that transcends words. In fashion:
Let's be honest, my dear readers, you don’t want to go to the theatre with just any old attire. You want an ensemble that’s bold yet understated, elegant and utterly glamorous. You can never go wrong with a floor-length velvet gown in shades of amethyst, emerald or midnight blue, complemented with pearl earrings and a pair of delicate heeled shoes. If you prefer a touch more daring, a shimmering sequined dress in deep hues with dramatic flowing sleeves is sure to turn heads. Don’t forget the little black dress. It’s always a classic choice – just add a dazzling statement necklace and some elegant pumps, and you are ready for the thrilling, timeless experience of the dance. My Recommendations:
- "The Sleeping Beauty," Mariinsky Ballet at London's Royal Albert Hall, October 20, 2001. The renowned Mariinsky Ballet in London? An event that will grace any calendar.
- "The Nutcracker," at the Paris Opera, November 5th, 2001. This is where my first true dance memories lie. A masterpiece, an essential Christmas classic.
- "Alice in Wonderland," at the New York City Ballet, October 31st, 2001. A new take on a favourite for this haunting, beautiful season.
I have no doubt you will find your own dance moments in this October. Go and indulge in this beautiful, ethereal, ever-changing world of movement. Your dancing friend, [Your name],