AI Ballet Outfit Design 718

March 2013

A Glimpse Behind The Curtain - Around The World In A Tutu

Oh, my darlings! The curtain has risen on a brand new season and the excitement is simply palpable! From Paris to New York, the world is awash in the breathtaking elegance of ballet. It's a whirlwind of emotions and artistry that sweeps you off your feet and transports you to realms of pure beauty. You're practically forced to don your most stunning gown and be swept away. As I, a mere veteran of the dance world, stand here in the wings of another decade (yes, dear reader, a whole decade of elegance!), let me regale you with my insights from the most fabulous shows. Prepare for your breath to be taken away. The season is simply sensational.

The City of Lights is a spectacle in itself and you can hardly go wrong. For sheer, classical brilliance, the Paris Opera Ballet at the **Palais Garnier** is always a magnificent affair. This month they were showcasing a newly-restored production of **Giselle**. I must tell you, darlings, it was the epitome of romance. I found myself absolutely mesmerised by the graceful movements and delicate gestures, not to mention the gorgeous, ethereal costumes, as exquisite as the ballet itself. The passion, the betrayal, the exquisite sadness – you feel it all, all the way to your very core.

And let's not forget the legendary **Roland Petit**. He remains an icon and it's always such a treat to catch a performance by **Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo**. They took the stage at the Théâtre du Châtelet this month. This year's theme, "Hommage à Petit" was simply divine. The pieces they brought were a beautiful reflection of Roland's genius. A must-see for anyone with a genuine passion for dance. And don't even get me started on the gorgeous **Beatrice Casadesus**. Simply divine!

No, my darlings, it simply never does! The American ballet scene is just as thrilling, buzzing with a thrilling blend of the old and the new. I was absolutely enraptured by the American Ballet Theatre at the Metropolitan Opera House, showcasing a truly exceptional production of **The Sleeping Beauty**. The grandeur of it all was simply staggering. Tchaikovsky's exquisite score took us on a journey to the fantastical world of fairies and princesses. What an absolutely delightful experience!

And then, the ever-so-trendy, the dazzling **New York City Ballet**, which stole the spotlight at **Lincoln Center** with the ** Balanchine/ Robbins Program**. It's always a feast for the eyes with their dynamic and exhilarating approach. The costumes, darlings, the costumes were the stuff of dreams! Feathers and sparkle aplenty! A celebration of pure artistry.

It wouldn't be fair to miss the exquisite gems shimmering beyond the Atlantic. My trip to The Royal Ballet in **London** this month was a delight. The performances were so technically exquisite, with dancers soaring through the air and expressing emotions with incredible fluidity and grace.

And let's not forget our dear friends across the pond at The Bolshoi Ballet, whose performances have long enchanted the world. A recent showing of **Swan Lake** had us completely captivated, the elegance of the dancers simply mesmerising. From the dramatic, sweeping movements of the swans to the intricate footwork of the prince and princess, we were mesmerised! It was an absolute spectacle and reminded us all why this legendary ballet company holds its esteemed place in the world of dance.

With so much extraordinary ballet around the world, it's a challenge to choose. But my darlings, here's what we found most enchanting! From Around The World:

• **Giselle** at the Paris Opera Ballet - the timeless elegance and heartbreaking beauty will forever hold a special place in your heart!
• **"Hommage à Petit"** at **Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo** - A tribute to an absolute icon and a truly inspiring experience.
• **The Sleeping Beauty** at the **American Ballet Theatre** - a feast for the eyes with majestic costumes and breath-taking artistry!
• **Swan Lake** at the Bolshoi Ballet- simply a classic and worth a journey across the globe to see!

• **The Royal Ballet's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" **- It promises to be a dazzling display of imagination! The production promises a surreal, wondrous experience. The costumes and choreography are meant to bring this fantastical tale to life.

My Tip! -

If you want to have a night truly immersed in ballet, book tickets for the performance and a fabulous dinner afterward, somewhere with great people watching, or an intimate little restaurant that feels like an exclusive, decadent secret.

Now, go, darling! You have an entire world of balletic beauty waiting to be discovered. The stage beckons!