Darling, October is simply bursting with ballet delights! Just when I thought my diary was full, a plethora of incredible performances have sprung up like roses in a London park. Of course, we must begin with the jewel in the crown, the Royal Ballet at Covent Garden.
The sheer brilliance of the dancers there never ceases to astound me. I had the joy of witnessing "Giselle" on opening night and I felt as though I had travelled back in time, the performance was breathtaking. Marianela Nuñez and Vadim Muntagirov brought such depth and beauty to this classic work, a real treat for the eyes and the soul.
I am also excited to announce the Royal Ballet's "The Winter's Tale", an original ballet piece, promises to be utterly fabulous, I have booked a table at my favourite restaurant for after the performance and my dear friend Penelope has promised to join me for champagne. It is always an event to remember to catch a premiere at Covent Garden.
Then, I travelled across the Thames to the heart of London's art scene. The English National Ballet at the London Coliseum never disappoints. I always enjoy the diversity of their repertoire, and this month, I was captivated by the bold choreography of Wayne McGregor's "Labyrinth". This work of abstract brilliance left me reeling, but the costumes and the innovative movement were truly sensational.
After that, I felt the need for something lighter and was not disappointed at all. The Birmingham Royal Ballet put on a simply wonderful performance of "The Nutcracker". Oh, the joy! I adored watching the children of the ballet school, they all had the sweetest, most adorable faces and it is always heartwarming to watch the new talent coming through. The young woman playing Clara danced with such delightful enthusiasm that I was transported back to my childhood memories of seeing the show with my family.
However, I could not stay in England forever. A quick dash to Paris followed for a night at the Palais Garnier. Now, the Paris Opera Ballet is always exquisite but last month's "La Bayadère" was especially stunning. I must admit to being slightly apprehensive about a performance of a more "traditional" style because some can feel dated, but I was utterly swept away by Aurelie Dupont's interpretation of Nikiya. This truly talented dancer gave the role such exquisite emotion, a poignant performance and beautiful in every sense.
Now, one cannot travel to Paris without paying a visit to L'Opera Garnier - my dear husband, Edward, booked a lovely private room with views over the city for an hour of indulgence before my performance. Oh, darling, such luxury. It is important to know how to enjoy the finer things in life, do you not agree?
My journey continued to New York where I experienced the magic of American Ballet Theatre. I must admit, the energy there is intoxicating! I sat in the second row, so close to the dancers that I could feel their every nuance, and I was thoroughly captivated by "Swan Lake". The story remains so popular for good reason and the corps de ballet seemed to glide seamlessly from swans to court ladies. I can see why this show has become the most recognized piece of ballet.
Of course, New York offered me many other delights! The fashion houses, the designer shops, all those fabulous treats - the perfect end to an exquisite journey. And don't even get me started on the Broadway shows! However, ballet always has to be first, so I saw "The Sleeping Beauty" at New York City Ballet. Now, I enjoyed seeing how the New York dancers infused their own signature energy and passion into the classical work, such dynamic choreography and lovely use of costume. I even managed to catch a "Nutcracker" performance at Ballet Hispanico on my final day. Now, this was completely different, very modern and infused with their own distinctive, vibrant energy.
Now I am home and must share a little gem of local ballet with you. My dear friend Penelope brought her granddaughter along to a production of "The Swan Lake " at English National Ballet (that's a lot of "The Swan Lake" don't you think!) Apparently, the little darling, only five years old, had not seen ballet before, and afterwards exclaimed "it's like Dancing on Ice but in fancy clothes". Oh my! But in truth, there is nothing like a live ballet. The music, the costumes, the movement, all transcend and transport us beyond words.
Of course, dear, October would not be complete without a wonderful ballet at Sadler's Wells. This delightful theatre offers a diverse and experimental range of contemporary ballet and is always a joy to visit. And I am going to see "The Car Man" by Matthew Bourne. I am hoping for the very best in athletic movement, beautiful bodies and something utterly engaging to end the month in style.
Oh, my darling, if you would love to join me, we can all gather for afternoon tea, and I'll tell you all about each production, in great detail, and how we can each feel our very own personal journey through the magic of dance.
A Little Fashion From Your Favourite Dancer- This season I adore the chic silhouette of ballet inspired designs - you will be thrilled by the elegant femininity of this look!
- The lovely flowing lines of a soft black evening gown with lace detailing at the bust. This look works equally well for the theatre or for dinner with friends and is ideal for showing off the graceful movement of a stylish lady
- A pair of luxurious silk or satin gloves adds the perfect finishing touch to a look so timeless.
- A dash of sparkly jewelry never hurts, of course.
Ballet is more than just beautiful movement, it's a state of mind - something that we carry with us into everyday life. It's an inspiration to dance through our days with grace, style, and with the beautiful freedom of our souls.