My darlings, August is upon us, and what a glorious month it promises to be! The world's ballet stages are ablaze with dazzling performances, from the grand classics to contemporary works that will leave you breathless. So, settle back with a cup of jasmine tea, and let me share my observations on the most exquisite spectacles gracing our beloved art form this month.
The Royal Ballet, London, is always a must-visit, and this August they're presenting a season to die for! Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake" is a timeless masterpiece, and this production with its sumptuous costumes and poignant choreography is truly unforgettable. Of course, you must be prepared to be spellbound by the ethereal beauty of Svetlana Zakharova as Odette, the swan queen, whose delicate grace and passionate artistry elevate this ballet to new heights. For the adventurous soul, I wholeheartedly recommend "The Dream," based on Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." It's an audacious production filled with fantastical characters and magical moments, with Edward Watson in the role of Oberon proving, yet again, to be one of the most charismatic performers of our time. And for a touch of the sublime, "The Rite of Spring" offers a thrilling exploration of primitive power and beauty, performed with breathtaking intensity.
The Paris Opera Ballet, a haven for exquisite elegance and exquisite technique, is offering "Giselle," the romantic classic that never fails to touch the heart. Their ballerina, Marie-Agnès Gillot, embodies the delicate grace and tragic beauty of the character with an artistry that is simply awe-inspiring. "La Bayadère," with its opulent costumes and thrilling choreography, offers an escape into the vibrant world of Indian mythology, while "Sylvia" delivers a delightful blend of playful charm and breathtaking technique.
Across the pond, The New York City Ballet, continues to push the boundaries of ballet with a truly dazzling season. The sublime "Agon," choreographed by Jerome Robbins, is a mesmerizing study of geometric patterns and human relationships, while "Serenade," another Robbins masterpiece, is a breathtaking celebration of the lyrical beauty of classical ballet. “Interplay”, a dance of playfulness and athleticism, and "The Four Temperaments", showcasing the complexity of human emotions, further illustrate the brilliant diversity and innovation that The New York City Ballet offers.
And let's not forget the power of new voices in ballet. I've recently been captivated by the burgeoning contemporary dance scene, with two productions truly deserving your attention:
- "Astarte" at The National Ballet of Canada, is a captivating meditation on life, loss, and the power of memory, with breathtaking choreography that leaves you deeply moved and questioning the very nature of human existence.
- The Royal Swedish Ballet’s "A Thousand Years of the Stars," by Mats Ek, a fearless choreographer pushing the boundaries of ballet with a mesmerizing blend of modern, lyrical, and classical styles, takes you on a spellbinding journey through time and the vastness of the universe.
Now, I do understand that travel might not always be feasible, and that you, my dear readers, crave the ballet experience in your own city. Thankfully, many smaller ballet companies across the globe are offering equally compelling performances.
- The Birmingham Royal Ballet's "La Fille Mal Gardée" is a charming and whimsical production, offering a playful and lighthearted escape.
- The Nederlands Dans Theater, always a proponent of innovative and ground-breaking choreography, presents a contemporary masterpiece this August: "Black Diamond" by Jiří Kylián. This thought-provoking work offers an intricate and complex dance narrative, exploring themes of love, loss, and isolation. Be prepared for an experience that will stay with you long after the final curtain falls.
- And for those of you in the United States, I highly recommend "Romeo and Juliet" performed by the San Francisco Ballet. The sheer passion and artistry in this production, with its tragic yet exquisite storytelling, will leave you utterly enthralled. The exquisite staging, coupled with the dynamic and heart-wrenching performance, ensures a truly memorable experience. This production truly showcases the company’s distinctive and elegant style of dance, placing them firmly amongst the best in the world.
My dear friends, there is truly something for everyone on the dance floor this August. Take this opportunity to explore new frontiers, revel in familiar masterpieces, and experience the joy, the heartbreak, and the boundless beauty of ballet. And remember, you are part of the magic. By your presence and your applause, you add a spark to the magic on the stage. Enjoy!