A Whirlwind of En Pointe: A Novembrian Ballet Tour
Darling, October was positively breathtaking – the colours, the crisp air, a touch of melancholy and the absolute frenzy of international ballet tours. The season has begun, dears, and what a glorious beginning it's been! Let me recount a few of the theatrical delights that graced the world's stages last month.
A Touch of Royalty in Copenhagen
First, I must mention my recent visit to the magnificent Copenhagen Opera House. Their production of “La Sylphide”, featuring the incomparable étoile of the Danish Royal Ballet, Marianne Elmquist, was an absolute revelation. Elmquist, is an absolute goddess in the role, so ethereal and delicate, yet possessing such strength in her movements. Every step and gesture spoke of a ballet dancer at the pinnacle of her artistry. The corps de ballet were also magnificent, their precise movements echoing the elegant fluidity of Elmquist's performance.
The stage design was as exquisite as the ballet itself. With its rich, gilded details, the design reflected the magic of the romantic period. The story was brought to life beautifully with its subtle nuance of the tragic tale of a young bride-to-be torn between a worldly, arranged marriage, and the love of a romantic sylph. Such exquisite pathos and drama!
A Masterclass in Parisian Flair
Just as the autumn leaves begin their magnificent descent in Paris, the city came alive with a most glorious display of "Giselle" at the Palais Garnier. This production is simply an icon of ballet repertoire and in this particular performance the young Étoile Claire Dupont took to the stage as Giselle with grace and elegance. Dupont, my dear, is a whirlwind of talent, and you could not help but be captivated by her technical prowess and the captivating performance.
But oh darling, what truly stole the show was the masterful performance of Josephine Lefèvre as Myrtha. Her presence exuded a powerful authority and chilling grace in this most iconic of ballet roles. Lefèvre commands attention and every movement from her exquisite pointe work to her nuanced portrayal of Myrtha's intense rage is captivating. She embodies every facet of the character, making for an intense, soul-stirring performance.
The choreography was as exquisite as ever, highlighting the ballet’s timeless and enduring themes of betrayal and romantic longing.
Bolero Bliss: A Choreographic Tour De Force
A must-see this month: the Bolshoi Ballet, my dear, have a remarkable "Bolero" that simply had me breathless. This rendition is not just a revival of Ravel’s legendary piece but an ingenious reimagining, featuring a magnificent cast with some dazzling and very exciting solo work.
The original choreography was by the great Maurice Béjart and while this new rendition certainly has its own energy the iconic choreography has been left largely intact and was breathtaking. There was simply no stage space left where this dynamic performance was not present - I found myself utterly entranced as a whirlwind of motion and energy drew me completely into this masterclass of dance.
Contemporary Excursions: New Dance and Choreography
For the contemporary ballet enthusiasts, I was delighted to be back at Sadler's Wells Theatre in London, where a trio of choreographers, all making their UK debuts, had their first London performances this month.
The programme titled “Dance Dialogues” featured performances by three diverse artists.
- The Finnish dance company, Rake, is a remarkable ensemble of young talent, and choreographer Satu Vänskä’s “Silent” , was a stark, powerful piece with haunting sound and a beautiful choreography featuring geometric shapes and intriguing body contortions, accompanied by an unnerving and ethereal sound that sent a chill right through me.
- The next piece, "Under the Stars" choreographed by a Norwegian artist Øystein Sunde , featured two of Norway's best-known dancers, Linn Sørensen and Ørjan Holmvik , whose movement in this choreographic masterpiece, was pure poetry. The use of slow-motion technique created a sense of dream-like slowness and weightlessness.
- The programme concluded with a performance by another Norwegian artist, Lars Jacob, “Dance of the Earth”. This very personal and unique piece with a minimalist set featured a haunting, almost trance-like soundscape and an ensemble of dancers all in nude coloured, body-hugging costumes.
All of the pieces, I must add, were remarkable, displaying artistic sensitivity and bold expression. Dance Dialogues truly was a breath of fresh air for London and showed just what amazing new dance and choreography is happening right now!
Coming Soon: What To Look Out For Next Month.
Well, darling, I am absolutely thrilled to be going to New York next month, and will be at Lincoln Centre for their incredible run of "Swan Lake" in the iconic and majestic New York City Ballet, which, we all know is an absolute feast for the eyes. Oh! And, of course, the final performance in November for The Nutcracker by the Royal Ballet. No more enchanting piece in all of the ballet repertoire, the festive energy will be a lovely way to usher in December. Don't you just love the anticipation and magical excitement?
In the meantime, keep an eye out for exciting performances, I shall be writing more soon and look forward to sharing more ballet adventures with you! Until next time, darling, dance with me!