My darlings, It's that glorious time of year again – the season of sunshine, sunshine, sunshine! But don't get blinded by the rays, because the dance world is ablaze with fabulous, stunning, breathtaking talent, and we wouldn't dream of letting you miss a single pirouette.
Now, let's get straight to the point, shall we? This month has been simply extraordinary. From the hallowed halls of Covent Garden to the sun-kissed beaches of Monte Carlo, I've been fluttering between fabulous performances that leave you absolutely giddy with delight.
From the heart of London
London, the ever-stylish city, didn't disappoint. The Royal Ballet, my old stomping ground, showcased "Giselle" once again, a classic that truly stands the test of time. My dear Sylvie Guillem, absolutely divine as always, melted my heart with her portrayal of the heartbroken Giselle. The sorrow in her eyes, the fragile steps, she simply stole the stage with that air of raw emotion. The company itself, a kaleidoscope of talent, danced with precision and flair, truly captivating the audience with every step and turn.
Speaking of flair, the Sadler's Wells Theatre also took my breath away. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater had me enthralled. Such raw energy and expression. That pulsating rhythm in "Revelations", oh, the joy! It simply vibrates in your soul. A powerful, electrifying, soul-stirring experience, my darlings.
A taste of the Continent
You see, it wasn't all about London, darling. Across the channel, Monte Carlo offered an enchanting evening at the Grimaldi Forum. I absolutely adore Monaco, it's so chic, so sleek. And the Monte Carlo Ballet, a perfect reflection of the glamorous surroundings, enchanted us with a program featuring works by George Balanchine, such a maestro, a genius! His choreography is like breathing life into a sculpture, an elegant fluidity that left us gasping with admiration. But of course, we had to add a dash of modern flair!
The "Concerto DSCH" by Jerome Robbins, such a darling, truly impressed me with its contemporary approach to the classical. The dancers, with their incredible physique and grace, transformed the stage into an abstract canvas, a whirlwind of beauty and artistic vision.
Where artistry meets adventure
But you know what I love most, darlings, it's when artistry transcends borders. A true feast for the soul, that's what it is. So, off to Japan I went, embracing a different culture. The Bolshoi Ballet, fresh from Moscow, brought its majestic presence to the New National Theatre Tokyo. And darling, they didn't disappoint! I watched in wonder as they recreated the splendour of Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake,” the grand, dramatic steps, the beautiful music, such a masterpiece! I even spotted the adorable little ballerina, who gave the Black Swan a good run for her money with her sparkling personality. The contrast, so captivating, so full of magic, I was swept away, darling.
A kaleidoscope of creativity
I mustn't forget to mention, the beauty of contemporary ballet! There's something truly exciting about its raw emotion and unique interpretations of classic tales. In London's Sadler's Wells, I encountered a piece "The Sleeping Beauty" by Matthew Bourne. A contemporary spin on the classic, this piece was utterly engaging, leaving me breathless, almost daring to dream.
This isn't a world of mere steps and leaps, it's an orchestra of passion and storytelling! From the sublime beauty of a grand classic to the cutting-edge contemporary interpretations, ballet continues to captivate the world. Every dancer, every choreographer, a vision to behold! And you, darlings, should behold every single one. Take my advice, this is a world waiting to be explored, an oasis of artistry and elegance waiting to embrace you.
But alas, even my adventures must end. For now, I'm signing off. Remember, darlings, embrace the beauty that surrounds you. And I shall return next month, brimming with more exquisite discoveries.