Darling, May has arrived! And what a month it's been for the ballet world, with so much dazzling artistry and sheer brilliance on show. Let's dive in, shall we, to the crème de la crème of the month's performances, from Paris to London, New York to Tokyo, a real worldwide ballet soiree.
Paris, Je T’aime It's always a thrill to return to the City of Lights. And this month, the Palais Garnier was my stage. We began with the glorious Bolshoi Ballet in their legendary production of Swan Lake. Exquisite artistry! The sheer poetry of their movements, the technical mastery of every leap, each pirouette, and of course, that final heart-stopping double tour from our star, Svetlana Zakharova - a breathtaking ballerina, quite simply the best I've seen in years! And who could forget the Bolshoi’s opulent costumes - a vision of imperial glamour!
Next up was a captivating performance of Giselle, starring the magnificent étoile, Marie-Agnès Gillot. The poignancy of Giselle’s love, her descent into madness, Marie-Agnès embodied it with heartbreaking precision. My favourite moment? That scene where Giselle, now a wilis, appears on the hilltop. A masterclass in ethereal grace. A truly unforgettable performance.
Across the Atlantic: American SplendourThe American Ballet Theatre, as ever, is at the forefront of innovation and beauty. I caught a brilliant new production of Alexei Ratmansky's Concerto DSCH at the Metropolitan Opera House. What a stunning choreography! I particularly loved the minimalist, almost cubist set - so stark and bold, and the captivating score that just filled the hall. It was a ballet of contrasts - dark, dramatic and achingly beautiful.
But it was Twyla Tharp’s Movin’ Out that truly blew me away. This bold ballet, with its unique fusion of classic dance and rock 'n' roll, is a thrilling piece. Tharp captures the restless energy, the rebellion and ultimately the joy of a young generation – just divine! The dancers were phenomenal. I’d go so far as to say it was the most thrilling show in New York this season.
From Tokyo with LoveI was in Tokyo for the highly anticipated performance of Morihiro Iwanaga’s new piece at the New National Theatre. Iwanaga has such a signature style - it’s a combination of rigorous ballet technique with a unique eastern influence that I adore! And of course, the dancers of the Tokyo Ballet are magnificent - I'm constantly amazed by their effortless elegance and impeccable control. A real visual feast. It was the perfect balletic journey before a relaxing omakase dinner in Ginza - pure bliss.
The Royal Ballet: A British TriumphAnd back home to London. Now who could miss a production by the Royal Ballet? The return of the classic The Sleeping Beauty always evokes excitement. I particularly loved Marianela Nuñez’s Aurora. Her performance was a joy to behold, such a natural talent and a perfect blend of sweetness and power. Her technique was just sublime - as though each movement was born from a deeper source of feeling. The Prince was rather charming, and I have to mention the corps de ballet – simply faultless in their unison.
However, this month it was the premiere of Christopher Wheeldon’s After the Rain at the Royal Opera House that I found most captivating. A ballet that moves you to the very core. I'm a sucker for a great story and Wheeldon truly captures the beauty, pain and ultimate renewal of human relationships in this piece. The choreography is truly inspired, a weave of classical and modern, and the dancers - well they brought tears to my eyes.
This month, darling, has been a testament to the power and the beauty of dance. It has left me thrilled by the technical prowess of our greatest dancers, inspired by the creativity of talented choreographers and, above all, deeply touched by the universal language of ballet that continues to speak to us, always.
The LookNow that you've been inspired by the grace of these dancers - do go out and dance, darlings! My favourite dance studio for ballet and all things classical - "The Ballet Barre" is a jewel in Mayfair - and do check out the latest dancewear collection at LaDanse - I simply adored their chiffon tutus this month, both for the stage and for street.
But let's talk glamour and beauty, ballet is more than just the dance. It has such an elegant, feminine aesthetics and it shows in the way we dress. I have been wearing a beautiful crepe dress by Valentino - a must have for a night at the ballet. Just divine. And remember, darlings, less is more. Keep the look classic with a statement jewellery piece - think pearl necklace or a long chandelier earring.
Beauty Bytes * **To get that ethereal ballet look** - Skin needs to be pristine - a light foundation that gives the illusion of porcelain skin, and just a hint of blush for that natural flush of colour. Always use a primer, a makeup artist's secret! It makes your makeup last the night, and you know, we all need a little magic to make our makeup work in this humid London weather. * **A balletic eyeshadow palette is all about the neutrals.** - Cream and champagne hues with just a hint of deep plum or shimmering gold for drama - and of course black eyeliner to define those beautiful eyes - never forget the lashes. Mascara is essential! * **The lips must be natural.** - Opt for a pale pink or nude - just a subtle tint to enhance that lovely pout.And now my dears, that’s it for this month’s balletic round-up. Until next time remember - stay graceful, elegant and always, always dance with passion!