AI Ballet Outfit Design 604

My darlings! September has arrived, the air crisp with the scent of autumn leaves and the promise of another dazzling season in the world of ballet. This month's round-up, as always, is overflowing with excitement - a veritable smorgasbord of captivating performances to tantalise every taste bud.

We start, as we often do, in London, that artistic heart beating with a glorious rhythm. This month, Covent Garden presented us with the most glorious revival of Swan Lake, and I am delighted to report it was divine. You all know my penchant for Tchaikovsky and how the iconic swans - a spectacle of graceful white and the ultimate testament to ballerinas' strength - never fails to stir me to the core. The brilliance of Tchaikovsky

This production, however, felt utterly fresh. The choreography, while rooted in tradition, breathed a newfound intensity. Our dear Carlos Acosta, an absolute prince, brought a haunting, vulnerable masculinity to Prince Siegfried. His partnering was as always, simply divine. He truly made the dance his own. And Natalia Osipova, her face like a delicate porcelain doll, was perfection as the swan. Each graceful step and delicate gesture was so exquisite, and her pirouettes, well, let's just say they made me gasp! And who could forget the mesmerising 'black swan' – that smouldering intensity? Absolutely captivating.

The entire ensemble, clad in glittering costumes, were like liquid gold. The choreography of the corps de ballet was breathtaking – a cascade of perfect swans, gliding, swooping and forming ever-shifting patterns. Oh, to be a swan in that corps! It truly was an unforgettable evening of balletic genius.

Now, on to something different, and oh-so charming. The Royal Ballet’s foray into contemporary dance, “The Dream”, has been sparking conversation since its launch, and for good reason. This contemporary rendition of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is utterly delightful! With music ranging from Vivaldi to a vibrant mix of electronic and classical, and with some fabulous costuming – think vibrant colours and shimmering silks – it's a theatrical feast for the eyes.

London is abuzz with exciting events this month. Do keep an eye on the many intimate, captivating spaces in London - think, the Dance Umbrella Festival at Sadler’s Wells. I can never resist a spectacular fringe performance, where new talents shine and unique concepts ignite our souls. Remember to pick up a brochure at the box office. You never know what enchanting discoveries await you!

Across the Channel, Paris was also brimming with delights. The Palais Garnier is always a captivating experience, its grand architecture a perfect setting for the dramatic, passionate emotions ballet embodies. And their performance of 'Giselle' was sublime. This classic tale of a young maiden's heartbreak and the world of ethereal creatures continues to enthral, reminding us of the enduring power of true love. It's a story that speaks to our hearts in a language that transcends the barriers of language, time and even the realm of reality. And when the ethereal corps de ballet float onto the stage, you can't help but gasp.

I’m always particularly moved by Giselle’s tragic plight, but the dancers at the Paris Opera Ballet added a fresh intensity, both delicate and poignant. And who can forget the 'wilis', their ghostly elegance making your heart both shiver and ache with a sense of beauty and sorrow?

On a lighter note, the dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet delighted audiences with a playful new interpretation of Stravinsky's "The Rite of Spring," set to a vibrant soundtrack created by the French artist Jean-Paul Goude. Now, this is the ballet you should be searching out - playful, provocative, and full of joy.

My American darlings, you haven't been neglected! In New York, the American Ballet Theatre delighted audiences with an exceptional run of ‘Romeo and Juliet.’ A tragedy beautifully captured in the fluid movements, aching passions and stunning costuming, This production is an emotional rollercoaster and proves the timeless beauty of classical ballet. If you're after something different, and truly thrilling, then don’t miss the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. The sheer power of their dance is breathtaking, showcasing some of the most innovative and remarkable contemporary choreography you will find.

And remember, my dear friends, the sheer joy of attending any ballet performance – be it a majestic classic, a dynamic contemporary piece, or a fringe gem, is truly a celebration of the human spirit, a fusion of beauty and athleticism, of emotions expressed in every gesture, every leap. Our dancers, these ethereal beings of grace, are masters of their craft.

They deserve our admiration, and in every performance, we should embrace the transformative magic they so generously share with us.

I can’t wait for you to experience this remarkable season of ballet alongside me, dear friends. Let us embrace every thrilling leap, every expressive twist and every beautiful, emotive gesture, and savour the pure artistry that the world of ballet continues to bestow on us.

Until next time, my darlings, let your inner ballerina bloom.