The World of Ballet: June 2016
By Theodora Belle, former principal dancer with the Royal Ballet
Oh, my darlings, what a whirlwind month it's been for ballet! From the hushed grandeur of Covent Garden to the vibrant energy of Tokyo, the stage has been alive with the poetry of movement and the intoxicating beauty of the human form. Let me regale you with the delights that have filled my dance-loving soul.
The Royal Ballet, Covent Garden: A Swan Song for Sylvie Guillem
It's simply unthinkable to discuss ballet in June 2016 without paying homage to the one and only Sylvie Guillem. The most captivating ballerina of our time, she chose to grace the stage one last time at Covent Garden, leaving an indelible mark on every single heart in the theatre. A sold-out run of 'Swan Lake' saw Sylvie, the epitome of grace and strength, dance with a haunting intensity that made time stand still. The technical brilliance, the artistry, the absolute poetry in her every gesture; it was a masterclass for seasoned dancers and newcomers alike. The melancholic air of her swan was both heartbreaking and undeniably beautiful, a reminder that even the most legendary ballerinas must eventually take their bows.
The evening was further heightened by the dazzling performance of David Hallberg, his Prince Siegfried filled with power and romantic longing, and the superb supporting cast of the Royal Ballet. This is truly what the ballet is all about, a sublime blend of athleticism and artistry, brought to life by world-class talent. We shall cherish this exquisite performance forever.
Paris Opera Ballet: 'Le Sacre du Printemps' – Still So Riveting
Paris has always held a special place in my heart, and I simply had to see the revival of 'Le Sacre du Printemps' at the Palais Garnier. The intensity, the drama, the sheer physicality - the performance is as groundbreaking and unsettling as it was when it premiered a century ago. A whirlwind of chaotic and ritualistic movements, a primal ballet that grabs you by the throat and never lets go. I admit, some productions have tried to tame 'Le Sacre' to create a sense of elegance, but the dancers at the Paris Opera embraced its raw power and delivered a visceral, electrifying experience.
The Tokyo Ballet: A Japanese Gem, 'Giselle'
In the land of the rising sun, I was utterly captivated by 'Giselle' as performed by The Tokyo Ballet. Now, you might think 'Giselle' is a classic, you've seen it all before, but let me assure you, this production had something truly special. Their Giselle, Hanako Fukuda, was simply ethereal, capturing the ethereal nature of the title role with a purity of expression I have seldom witnessed. Her partner, Kohei Nishino, as the tormented Prince Albrecht, delivered a performance of depth and conviction that was captivating.
A 'Giselle' in Japan may seem unconventional, but this performance truly showcased the beautiful Japanese tradition of storytelling and movement. It's a testament to the talent and innovation that flourishes far beyond the Western ballet world.
Other Enchanting Encounters:
- The American Ballet Theatre's interpretation of 'The Sleeping Beauty' was, predictably, a visual and technical masterpiece. Misty Copeland was exquisite as Princess Aurora, while the 'Rose Adagio' scene was absolutely unforgettable.
- A dazzling performance by The Bolshoi Ballet in 'Don Quixote' left me with a genuine thrill. This company simply explodes with athleticism and the dancers’ sheer joie de vivre is infectious. To see such energetic and captivating choreography performed with such breathtaking technical prowess was a privilege indeed.
- I caught a performance by Ballet West in Utah of a new production of 'Cinderella' and I was impressed with its freshness and originality. The use of lighting and projections elevated the choreography into a different dimension, bringing this classic tale to life in an innovative way.
My dear friends, this month has truly been a dance extravaganza. I am blessed to have witnessed these exceptional performances. These dancers, each with their own unique story, grace and artistry, have truly enchanted and inspired me. The world of ballet continues to captivate and evolve. The future of this art form is bright and brimming with promise.
A Little Style Advice:
A ballet performance is the perfect occasion to let your inner elegance shine. For an evening of ballet, my darling, I highly recommend a tailored cocktail dress, a classic look that always makes a statement. Add a touch of drama with an elegant feather boa, or embrace the delicate beauty of the ballet with a string of pearls.
And for those daring to stand out, a pop of color can bring an unexpected twist. Consider a striking shade of fuchsia or sapphire blue, a little jolt of vibrancy to accentuate your sophisticated style.
Remember, my dear ones, when attending the ballet, it’s not only the performance that counts – your personal style also speaks volumes. So go on, make an entrance and be prepared for an unforgettable night! And above all, remember: be yourself. And if you happen to stumble upon any ballet performance worth raving about, please do share.