Darling, it's May already! Can you believe it? The days are longer, the sun is finally starting to shine, and all I can think about is how many fabulous ballets and performances I'm going to squeeze into this glorious month. Let me tell you, there's a flurry of movement in the air and I wouldn't miss it for all the tiaras in the world.
London's CallingYou simply cannot ignore the Royal Ballet, darling! They are quite simply the best, and they are celebrating their 75th anniversary this year. My goodness, imagine that! You see, their special gala last month? Divine! The whole royal family was there, but, of course, I only had eyes for the exquisite performances. There was a bit of the old guard, of course, like darling Margot Fonteyn, looking divine, I must say, in that simple black dress - but she has the grace of a willow and a look in her eyes that simply captivates you. She really does put all of these modern girls to shame! But don’t get me wrong, we also saw some beautiful dancing by the younger crowd, like Marianela Núñez and the always graceful Darcey Bussell.
An Evening with the Ballet RussesBut then there's Covent Garden. Oh, my, how the stars align, this month is a true celebration of their Russian heritage! The exquisite Serge Diaghilev's 'The Rite of Spring', I'm talking primal energy darling, the way these ballerinas just tore across the stage… utterly compelling! Imagine dancing so beautifully while completely naked from the waist down! Of course, we couldn’t possibly go to a performance without the correct adornments. A stunning scarlet feathered boa for a touch of Diaghilev glamour and a pair of ruby earrings – the perfect touch for a touch of pagan magic.
On a New York State of MindAnd then, darling, across the Atlantic! Ah, New York! The city that never sleeps, never ceases to amaze, and, dare I say it, sometimes steal the limelight. I'm absolutely smitten with the way they move in the Big Apple. You can see the street style in their steps, darling, they move with such power and a real raw sensuality - absolutely electrifying. Last week, I was completely captivated by the American Ballet Theatre's "Swan Lake". Of course, a truly classic performance, so elegant and flowing. And the lead ballerina, Gillian Murphy, danced with an almost otherworldly presence - a true queen of the stage!
A World of Wonderful Talent Buenos AiresI did hear tell of an absolute marvel of a production in the heart of South America. Now darling, if you really want to experience passion on the dance floor, go to the Ballet Nacional de Cuba! Those girls, they move with a fierce, earthy energy, a kind of passionate fire that consumes you. Simply electric, darling! But if you're more of a romantic soul, head over to the Teatro Colon. It's beautiful, utterly enchanting, with these magnificent dancers swaying to the rhythm of Tango music, all flowing, long limbs, exquisite curves. So romantic, you might find yourself getting swept off your feet, literally.
Rome, my LoveBut we can't forget the city of love, darling! The Teatro dell'Opera di Roma never disappoints. Imagine, a beautifully opulent stage, rich in history and elegance. Now imagine all those magnificent men - the classical beauty of their technique. These guys are true athletes and artists rolled into one, and they absolutely command your attention. For the ultimate, decadent treat, check out the ‘La Bayadère' performance – stunning! Don’t forget to slip into your best Italian red dress – absolutely essential, my dear.
And a Touch of the OrientMy goodness, what's more exotic than the orient? Of course I had to experience the Shanghai Ballet last month! You can’t get a more impressive venue than the stunning Shanghai Grand Theatre, a true testament to beauty. The exquisite 'Giselle', this time, it had that ethereal, ethereal magic that was just breathtaking. The fluidity and delicacy of the dancing… it really was truly magical. There’s something about the grace and quiet strength of Eastern ballet that takes you right back in time.
Finding my Inner BallerinaMy goodness, even as I age, darling, I still have the most exquisite dreams, and my ballet-filled life gives me such incredible joy. These last few years have been wonderful. Now, I’m going back to London next week, to have a little catch up with my favorite teachers and see if my bones can still do those turns, you know, the kind that I dreamed about all those years ago. Oh, it doesn’t have to be perfect darling, a little less leg, and maybe, a tiny touch of ballet for old time's sake! It doesn’t take much. I think the memories, the movement and that feeling of flight that still lingers in my heart – that’s the true magic. You know that. And that my darling, is timeless.