Darlings, September is upon us and, with it, the thrilling anticipation of a new ballet season. Oh, how I adore the crunch of autumn leaves underfoot and the promise of an evening spent in the embrace of an enchanting ballet performance!
As we move from the vibrant summer festivals to the grand theatres, the stage comes alive with intricate choreography and breathtaking displays of athletic grace. There's something deeply comforting about ballet, wouldn't you agree? The predictable perfection of its steps, the unwavering dedication of the dancers, and the captivating storytelling that transcends words. And this season promises to be a spectacular one, overflowing with new productions, innovative interpretations, and those timeless classics we all hold dear.
I've already enjoyed a truly delicious summer flitting about the festivals. From the breathtakingly beautiful shores of the Amalfi Coast to the cobbled piazzas of Edinburgh, there was a constant feast for the senses! But the season has really kicked off with the Royal Balletās stunning reimagining of *Giselle*. I had heard whispers, darling, of the dramatic shift in design, a far cry from the usual traditional backdrop, and boy oh boy was it daring! Imagine *Giselle* with an unsettling industrial feel, stark lighting, and a powerful emotional impact!
Speaking of *Giselle*, wouldn't you know it, that darling Natalia Osipova was at the forefront! The role simply oozes from her, such fragility in one moment, then exploding into a dazzling whirlwind of pure energy the next.
Now, don't get me wrong, I'm all for a little change and a splash of the avant-garde, but letās be honest, nothing quite satisfies the soul like a classic. So, my absolute highlight this month? Itās the Bolshoi's breathtaking production of *Swan Lake*. Nothing beats a glittering production, exquisite costumes, and that iconic *Tchaikovsky* score. Now, that is pure magic! It's a testament to the incredible talent of these dancers, to witness such technical prowess, grace, and drama rolled into one!
But before you go rushing off to see it, darlings, there's an added dimension that takes the *Swan Lake* experience to a whole new level. I'm talking about *Natalia Bessmertnova*, the legendary ballerina. Now, *Bessmertnova* has stepped out of the wings and is coaching a new generation of swans in a new ballet: *Swan's Passion*. Her graceful precision and *Je ne sais quoi* are imprinted on every pirouette, every leap. She embodies *Swan Lake*. Now imagine, darlings, the chance to be immersed in the original *Swan Lake*, then experiencing it reinterpreted through the *Bessmertnova* lens - I dare you not to swoon. And for an added touch of luxury, theyāre showcasing * Swan's Passion* at the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane. The drama, the history, and that sheer opulent feelā¦ it's the epitome of elegance.
Meanwhile, over in Paris, I simply had to see the *Paris Opera Ballet*. You canāt talk about ballet and ignore them! But this time it's about a unique concept. Can you imagine * Sleeping Beauty* on a set that reflects the spirit of Paris in 1900? A veritable Art Nouveau ballet, if you will! They took the traditional story of *Sleeping Beauty* and have given it an unexpected, chic edge. Imagine *Tchaikovsky's* sublime music blending with the avant-garde feel, quite divine. This daring reinterpretation reminded me of why the Paris Opera Ballet holds such an influential position in the world of dance.
As always, I adore keeping my finger on the pulse of all things ballet, especially those performances outside the traditional circuit. And in this sense, there's something exciting going on down in New York. The *American Ballet Theatre* are staging a new, avant-garde piece called *āUnder the Midnight Sun.ā* Now, *American Ballet Theatre* is renowned for pushing boundaries, but * āUnder the Midnight Sunā * is a different animal altogether. The choreography draws from a kaleidoscope of *folklore* - Japanese, Russian, and a dash of African influence too, all wrapped in the brilliance of *Tchaikovsky's* music! Honestly, I can't wait to see what kind of theatrical wonder unfolds in this production.
There are so many ballet jewels to behold this month, that it's practically impossible to fit them all in here, my dears. You'll need to dig a little deeper and look around for hidden gems like *Royal New Zealand Ballet* staging *Cinderella* with an innovative "black-and-white" approach. The impact, the colour, the stark simplicity of it is something very special. Or for those who seek a dose of the traditional, *Australian Ballet* has chosen to reimagine *Sleeping Beauty* with stunning costumes and breathtaking staging, perfect for a night out.
Speaking of "the season," did you catch that the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden has partnered with the *London Coliseum*, a brilliant match indeed! Thatās where they are showing a triple-bill of the very latest productions from around the world. A delightful *coup dāĆ©tat*, I'd say.
Of course, a good show requires a dazzling look. I recommend adding a touch of velvet to your wardrobe. It's the perfect mix of sophistication and a touch of dramatic extravagance. Think elegant silk pants, a deep-cut velvet top, and that dazzling āstatement necklace.ā Don't forget a stunning evening bag. Don't underestimate the power of a well-chosen clutch! You could even slip on a beautiful hat with feather accents for that extra touch of flair. And my absolute favourite? A delicate ankle-length chain around your ankle! A touch of Parisian elegance for a very stylish touch.
But perhaps the best accessory, darlings, is your dazzling smile. Enjoy the magic of ballet! You're all invited! I can't wait to hear your ballet buzz this month!
Bisous!
Your Ballet Siren
Must-See Shows Around the World
- Royal Ballet, London, UK
- *Giselle*, Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London, 01-26 September, Giselle redefined.
- *Swan Lake*, Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London, 27 September- 23 October, a traditional production, the classic, never out of fashion
- The Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow, Russia
- *Swan Lake*, Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow, throughout September and beyond, a sumptuous feast for the senses.
- * Swanās Passion,* The Bolshoi Ballet, Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London, 19-23 September, *Natalia Bessmertnova* leads a new generation in the legendary ballerina's own production.
- The Paris Opera Ballet, Paris, France
- *Sleeping Beauty*, Palais Garnier, Paris, 01 -23 September, Sleeping Beauty on stage, Paris style!
- The American Ballet Theatre, New York, USA
- *āUnder the Midnight Sun,ā* Metropolitan Opera House, New York, 18-24 September, a melting pot of dance.
- Royal New Zealand Ballet, Wellington, New Zealand
- *Cinderella*, Opera House Wellington, New Zealand, 1-17 September, a modern and minimalistic approach to a fairytale
- Australian Ballet, Melbourne, Australia
- *Sleeping Beauty*, Australian Ballet, State Theatre, Melbourne, throughout September and beyond, classic storytelling, for pure delight
- Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London
- *Triple Bill, * London Coliseum, 28 September, new works from across the globe, to tantalize and delight.