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Ballet & Beauty: April 2007

Darlings, the world of ballet is truly blooming this April. It's like a stunning bouquet of artistry, with breathtaking performances in every corner of the globe. My travels have taken me from the grand Parisian stages to the vibrant shores of Tokyo, and I'm thrilled to share the highlights with you, my dear readers.

Paris, always the epitome of chic, never fails to amaze. The Palais Garnier was a breathtaking canvas for the Paris Opera Ballet's spectacular production of Giselle. The artistry was simply divine! Aurélie Dupont, her movements light as a feather, danced the tragic heroine with heart-wrenching elegance. And what can I say about the legendary Nicolas Le Riche? His Albrecht, filled with fiery passion and tortured nobility, was mesmerizing. I swear, his performance made every woman in the theatre swoon!

But let’s be honest, the real star of the show was the ballet’s stunning costume design. The tutus were a masterpiece, swirling with layers of exquisitely embroidered tulle. The colours, oh, the colours! A palette of pearl greys, midnight blues, and blushing pinks were like a dream. It's no wonder the Paris Opera Ballet is revered worldwide.

While in Paris, a visit to the Atelier de Danse, the legendary dance shop on the Rue de la Paix, is a must. I simply had to have a pair of those heavenly-soft suede ballet flats. They were perfect for strolling the streets and catching up with the city's chicest clientele.

Now, let’s jet off to the pulsating heart of Tokyo. This city always vibrates with a thrilling energy, and its contemporary dance scene is simply electrifying. The Tokyo Ballet's performance of Shards by the remarkable Akiko Kitamura was remarkable. The movement was bold, almost primal, a symphony of angularity and fluidity, punctuated by powerful gestures. The piece left me feeling energized and in awe of the choreographer's audacity.

And you can't mention Japanese dance without acknowledging the mesmerizing world of butoh. At the Aoyama Theatre, I was transfixed by the poetry of Sankai Juku. Their The Myth of Darkness was a powerful commentary on the nature of humanity, filled with haunting images, silken fabrics, and a captivating sense of ritualistic mystery.

I'd recommend a visit to the designer boutique Ayakko in the Shibuya district after a show. It's a paradise of bold prints and unique silk garments, perfectly embodying the city's bold and imaginative spirit.

From Tokyo's thrill to New York's enduring grace, I found myself in the heart of Manhattan, at the legendary New York City Ballet. This iconic company continues to captivate, especially under the leadership of Peter Martins. The performance of The Four Temperaments was breathtakingly beautiful, with the dancers, each a marvel in their own right, showcasing the technical brilliance and artistry we all love about this company. And the costumes? Pure chic! Simple, elegantly tailored costumes emphasizing the dancer's form and movement, making each performance a true celebration of the art of ballet.

No trip to New York is complete without a visit to the Metropolitan Opera House, an absolute temple to art and elegance. But you don't have to attend an opera, darlings. Even just strolling around the neighbourhood with a scone from the iconic Tea & Sympathy, and the light from the opera house casting a glow on the streets of New York, is enough to give you that lovely bit of drama in your day!

For a taste of southern hospitality, I found myself swept away by the charm of the Atlanta Ballet's production of Romeo and Juliet. This ballet's passion, fueled by Prokofiev’s epic music, was a powerful testament to the human condition. The storytelling was evocative and the choreography masterfully captured the tragedy and beauty of Shakespeare's epic love story. A remarkable ballet in every way.

Afterwards, a delightful lunch at the Atlanta Botanical Garden was the perfect way to unwind after such a powerful performance. And remember, darlings, always accessorize with a touch of nature's beauty, be it a tiny silk flower or a delicate branch from a garden in full bloom.

My ballet adventures took me across the world and allowed me to witness the beauty and diversity of this art form, an expression of human emotions and a statement of artistic excellence. From the classical perfection of Paris to the bold, innovative spirit of Tokyo, and the enduring grace of New York to the Southern charm of Atlanta, it’s clear that ballet is flourishing. Remember, my dears, whether you're sitting in a theatre, or walking down the street, always embrace the grace, the style, and the beauty that dance can inspire in us all.

Stay elegant, my dears.