August, oh August. The heat is finally here, and Londonās pavements shimmer like a mirage. Thankfully, the air-conditioned cool of the Royal Opera House remains an oasis, a refuge for my tired, dancer's soul. The season, however, is anything but languid. Let me guide you through the monthās must-see ballets and, dare I say it, **some not-to-be-missed distractions**!
The Royal Ballet's Opening Night
A packed house, shimmering jewels and diamonds glinting in the chandelierās reflected light, the hushed whispers of anticipation: this was the air we breathed before the curtain rose on **Sleeping Beauty** at the Royal Opera House. As ever, I was enthralled by the classic choreography. But this season, the castās dedication truly shone through. The young, fresh-faced Alina Cojocaru is exquisite as Princess Aurora; there is such a vibrant, ethereal innocence in her every movement. The Prince, played by the ever-reliable Johan Kobborg, held his own, their pas de deux, that heart-stopping pinnacle of the entire production, truly electrifying. Their chemistry was tangible, a testament to years of artistry, yet imbued with a youthful vibrancy, a thrilling reminder of the power of classical ballet.
Parisian Flair
You know me, a Parisienne at heart, I always make it a point to be in the City of Lights come August. And, darling, there's simply nothing like the allure of the Palais Garnier. **The Paris Opera Ballet's season opener** is always an affair to remember, and this year, it was **Giselle** that set the stage ablaze. The legendary Sylvie Guillem returned to the stage, proving why she's been the Queen of Ballet for so long. Her interpretation of Giselleās heartbreak, that fragile strength as she descends into madness, was nothing short of spellbinding. Her graceful, technically masterful performance moved the entire audience. She's a force to be reckoned with.
New York's Got It
There's a certain energy in the Big Apple that, I admit, always puts me in a daring mood. Naturally, the Lincoln Center's Metropolitan Opera was my next destination. **Christopher Wheeldon** continues to dazzle. **His "After the Rain" at the New York City Ballet was pure genius. Itās a contemporary work, infused with his signature poetic sensibility and emotional depth.** The ethereal costumes and haunting score beautifully compliment the intricate choreography, leaving the audience both moved and breathless. This is modern ballet at its very best!
Off The Stage
Now, darling, there's more to August than just ballet. After all, this fashionista can't be confined to tutus 24/7! So, where was this seasoned ballerina found this August? The **Gstaad Menuhin Festival in Switzerland**, where the world's leading musicians and opera stars converge for a captivating showcase of artistry. This year, a rare treat awaited us ā a stunning performance of "Tosca," and my goodness, that powerful rendition of āVissi d'arte!ā It made me yearn to slip back into my own costume and dance once again! It also made me fall head over heels with this **magnificent emerald necklace** I stumbled upon at a little boutique in Gstaad! You know I couldn't resist, the color simply *glowed*! You simply have to take my advice and invest in an emerald, my darlings!
Berlin's Burning (with Art!)
This August, the heat of Berlin drew me in with the **International Festival of Contemporary Music, āMaerzMusikā**. A bold foray away from traditional ballets, it was an incredible whirlwind of cutting-edge performances and art installations that made my mind hum. You see, itās crucial for any ballerina to continually refresh the creative wellspring. This event reminded me that art in all its forms inspires the soul and elevates the spirit! I even caught a glimpse of the stunning **āThe Third Mindā exhibition at the Martin Gropius Bau, a beautiful homage to the visionary jazz musician Sun Ra**.
Oh, and my London!
My heart belongs to London, where the summer nights stretch on forever and the city hums with life. And thereās nothing quite like strolling down the Thames Embankment, enjoying the light of a summerās eve with a glass of champagne, while pondering the next step in my artistic journey. A Londoner at heart, I know just where to go for a bit of extravagance when the summer evening draws to a close ā The **Ivy Chelsea Garden**. Itās the quintessential British eatery, elegant but comfortable. Their āLobster Spaghetti" and chilled champagne are a heavenly combination! My suggestion? Order a selection of their gorgeous fresh oysters - theyāre an aphrodisiac in their own right.
A Ballet's Legacy
August has once again offered a smorgasbord of artistic treasures. And let's face it, a girl canāt resist them all! I found myself drawn to a multitude of spectacles ā a true dancer's delight. As I return to my home, London's beloved, my heart feels fuller than ever, each experience a brushstroke on my canvas of artistic understanding. In this vibrant month of summerās glow, the memory of **those shimmering dance moves and heartfelt moments** will remain with me, inspiring my next steps on my own journey in the world of ballet.