My darlings! August! What a month, it simply sizzles with excitement! The summer season, oh, so wonderfully fleeting, continues its decadent swirl. The theatre, the stage, they all beckon. As I always say, it’s never too late for a dash of theatricality, for a flicker of that eternal flame. This month, my dear readers, it’s all about graceful transitions. We are leaving the heat of July behind, slipping into a golden embrace of late summer, a gentle descent towards autumn. Let’s consider these artistic and balletic treats a luxurious warm-up to the theatrical feast of autumn, which you know I will be positively bursting to dissect for you next month.
So let us get on with it, shall we? My top picks, just for you.
- First, we venture to the hallowed halls of The Royal Opera House. The hallowed halls have never seemed more alluring! There was a simply stunning production of Swan Lake last month that sent a ripple of excitement through the industry. You'll have to catch a glimpse on youtube, darling. The costumes? To die for! Think ivory swans floating through a symphony of moonlight, oh the romance! It seems the Russian temperament never loses its flair for the dramatic, especially when there's an exquisitely feathered bodice in play!
- On to the West End, dear! My word, a riot of colour and performance! "Crazy for You," is all the rage. Not your traditional ballet, darling, but the dancing, oh, it's captivating! There are these wonderful tap sequences. You might not expect the joy it gives, but that rhythmic footwork, the sharp steps and dazzling precision, it has a rhythm all of its own. Makes you long for the old-fashioned dance halls. Think elegant Art Deco with a dash of pure joyous energy and you have this show wrapped up, my dears.
- New York, New York, you know the song! Naturally, we have to saunter over to the Big Apple. A whirlwind of possibilities awaits! You absolutely mustn't miss "An American in Paris" at the City Center. Now, we know that Gershwin is always a winner. There's just something about that music. And the way it captures the mood, that effervescence of post-war Parisian life? Pure magic! I daresay this could be the breakout ballet production of the year! Such a delightful burst of vibrant hues, a truly American show for the world. I couldn't resist a little twirl myself after seeing the costumes. Truly an inspiration to all you aspiring dancers out there!
- And to complete this glamorous sweep of the globe, I couldn't resist mentioning The Bolshoi, my dears! They are simply on another level. They are a breath-taking embodiment of artistic discipline, grace, and raw talent, darling. Oh, I had the most splendid time catching a performance of "Giselle," it truly is a timeless classic, wouldn't you agree? I must confess, every time I watch Giselle I am lost in a world of romance and intrigue. That tender portrayal of love and loss is truly something.
- I recommend: a sleek, flowing gown that moves like liquid gold! The elegance and sophistication! The perfect accessory: a single strand of pearls. So chic! I swear you'll be transported back to a grand theatre, the hushed anticipation before the curtains rise. Oh my, the romance! I do adore a splash of elegance, do you?
- Or, you know, that fabulous power suit: a fitted jacket, tailored to perfection, that allows you to move with grace! I say, there's a boldness in that. It says "I’m here, ready for anything" doesn't it? Maybe you just have a penchant for all things classic and want to create a striking look with a simple silhouette and sharp, pointed pumps. You know the power a powerful shoe can bring to an outfit, especially a little stiletto heel. Let’s keep the emphasis on that sleekness!
- A whisper of colour, a gentle caress of vibrant blue or green on your lip, adds that finishing touch! Now, my dear, don’t go overboard! It’s not about trying to mimic those ballerinas on the stage. Let them command the attention, but as for us, we need that understated touch that is, dare I say, quite a statement in itself!
Speaking of Giselle, now I do love to see a strong female character in any ballet, don't you? Such elegance! This season, there is a wonderful revival of the "Black Swan" at Sadler's Wells. Now, we all know the tale. The beauty, the darkness, it all unfolds with captivating elegance! To me, ballet has a captivating duality, doesn’t it? All those feminine arabesques, but also the power that dances just beneath the surface.
Speaking of beauty, and dare I mention age? I see, oh my dears, such elegance in you all. There is a wonderful production at the Royal Ballet called "La Bayadere". Now, I know, you're thinking 'Oh no, another classic'. But, dear, just trust me. It's a masterpiece that showcases the breathtaking virtuosity of these dancers. It's the sheer poetry in motion that always gets me, darling! We simply adore ballet because it transcends language. We witness that ethereal movement and understand so much about humanity. So, if you are yearning for beauty, go, book those tickets and prepare for enchantment!
But hold on! Before you head out, darling, there are so many things to think about: the outfits. One doesn’t just saunter to the ballet with a haphazard look, oh no, it's an opportunity to embrace a new you, or simply to rediscover a beloved classic style.
Of course, this being summer, don't forget a gorgeous, lightweight scarf. Just a delicate wisp of silk, a touch of elegance that doesn’t overwhelm, perfect for capturing that whimsical air of ballet! Perhaps a dash of floral patterns or, dare I suggest, some intricate embroidery? But remember, my dear, keep it subtle. You are the work of art in this context! Don’t let the accessorises outshine you!
So, my dears, with this ballet repertoire in your mind, I hope that August sees you dancing and swirling into its final weeks with style and joy! I can’t wait to hear what you choose. But just remember this: As we move gracefully towards the colder season, take a moment to soak up the last warm days, and as always, look your best, darling. There's a new kind of glamour to be discovered with each new season, and remember, with a dash of boldness and a dash of class, anything is possible, you divine things. You see, elegance is not confined to those onstage! It’s within all of us, it just needs the right moment to shine. And who knows, you might inspire those ballerinas! But enough of that. The season is full of possibilities, so let us dance our way through it with panache and gusto! My very best to you all!