Dearest darlings,
November has arrived, and with it the promise of thrilling ballets from around the globe. Oh, it’s simply divine to be back on the circuit, my dear! After my recent foray to the Salzburg Festival (I just *had* to see that production of **Der Rosenkavalier**, divine!), I’ve been positively chomping at the bit for more artistry and elegance. And trust me, my sweet, this month does not disappoint!
Let’s start with the sublime **Royal Ballet**. I had the utmost pleasure of catching their exquisite rendition of **Swan Lake** at Covent Garden. As you know, darling, I’ve seen more productions of this timeless ballet than I can count on two manicured hands, but the Royal Ballet somehow managed to infuse this classic with a newfound intensity. I'm still mesmerised by the sheer beauty and strength of the dancers, each graceful gesture speaking volumes. The opening of the second act was positively breathtaking - those white tutus! *Sighs*.
A real gem, dear, is the production of **La Bayadère** at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. Oh, the opulence! Imagine a sumptuous feast for the senses - with dazzling costumes and glittering scenery - the grand pas de deux in Act 2 was simply magnificent! The company’s exquisite technique was truly a sight to behold, my dears. You absolutely must see it!
Another delightful discovery this month was the **Hamburg Ballet**. I took a whirlwind trip to the vibrant city, drawn by the buzz around their staging of **Giselle**. You know how I love a little drama, and this production was nothing short of thrilling. The use of shadow and light was simply brilliant - perfectly reflecting the tumultuous journey of the ill-fated Giselle. And the choreography? Pure genius! I’m still swooning over the expressive quality of the dancing – *simply magnifique*!
Over in the USA, I made a quick pitstop at the **New York City Ballet**. Their staging of **The Nutcracker** was pure joy, darling! The whole city, truly, is taken over by Christmas spirit at this time of year. I could practically feel the excitement building as the iconic ballet unfolded onstage. Such vivacity and wonderment - the magic of ballet, my dears! Plus, it always feels absolutely charming to witness the younger dancers in the cast, each one so brimming with joy and potential.
And speaking of the *young* and talented, my dear, did you know about the phenomenal young dancer, Anya Petrova, debuting in **Le Corsaire** at the **National Ballet of Canada** this month? I simply cannot get enough of new, fresh talent, and she was pure fire on the stage! Her artistry and energy were remarkable, especially during the famed "Black Pas de Deux." A truly awe-inspiring talent to watch! It is thrilling to witness how the next generation is shaping ballet with its boundless enthusiasm and unique artistry. Oh, how delightful!
Now, I must tell you about this utterly divine, experimental production of **Tchaikovsky's Pas de Deux** at **Nederlands Dans Theater**. A complete departure from the traditional, the contemporary interpretation was refreshingly bold and audacious. With striking, unexpected moves and an experimental soundscape, the production was truly captivating and unlike anything I’d ever seen before! Such brilliant artistry! I do encourage you to witness this production and to push your boundaries - for daring is, in itself, an art form. We can never stand still, can we?
Now, for those of you who, like myself, have a penchant for something a little bit *different*, you simply *must* catch **Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater**'s program in November. I dare say it is truly the *must-see* event of the month. The energy and intensity of the dancing, the profound storytelling through movement... simply mesmerising!
I have a fondness, dear readers, for seeing familiar classics reinterpreted. **Romeo & Juliet** is, of course, a mainstay on the ballet circuit, and a very good thing too, don’t you agree? This month I made it a point to catch **Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris**’s performance in Paris. You'd think that there couldn't possibly be a new way to see such a beloved ballet, but darling, this production took my breath away! The Parisian company always brings such elegance and emotion to their performances - *quelle beauté!*, and this production was no different. It truly felt like an entirely new work.
Speaking of Paris, oh, let me indulge in some reminiscing for a moment, darling! Do you remember seeing **Baryshnikov** in **Giselle** in 1989, darling? Divine! I saw it *three times* that season. I was truly smitten, and my love for ballet blossomed like a delicate rosebud under the warm Parisian sun. You truly could *feel* the passion! That memory still fills me with joy.
Let's not forget **the smaller gems**, darling, those little hidden treasures that are so utterly unique and charming! **The English National Ballet**, a real gem in the British ballet world, performed a rather splendid rendition of **Le Sacre du Printemps** at Sadler’s Wells last month. The movement was so raw, and I adore how it celebrated the elemental. A real showstopper. This production had it all, darling - primal rhythms, thrilling leaps and passionate intensity. Simply glorious. And, a side note, dear - I couldn't help but notice the absolutely stunning new set! So innovative. Simply marvellous.
Speaking of “raw,” darling, I simply had to mention **Batsheva Dance Company**, truly a powerhouse on the contemporary scene. My goodness, I saw their performance of **"Decadance"** at the Barbican and found myself simply captivated. Every move felt utterly authentic. It's the type of production that stays with you for a long time. If you’re looking for something *completely* new and thought-provoking, Batsheva is absolutely the company for you!
Finally, let me conclude by saying that as the ballet season unfolds, dear, we’re reminded that the sheer beauty and captivating storytelling of ballet continue to inspire and delight us all. We truly are a global community of lovers, each moved by the beauty of this elegant art. This month’s selection of ballets - from classic to modern, grand to intimate – demonstrates the beauty and diversity of this magnificent art form. Enjoy!
Yours always in dance,
Jacqueline