AI Ballet Outfit Design 793

The Ballerina's Diary: June 2019

A Monthly Review by Isabelle du Lac

Chérie, June has arrived, and the world of ballet is swirling with an intoxicating energy, much like a perfect pirouette! We’ve got grand openings, glittering gala nights, and of course, the debut of the hottest choreographers. Oh, darling, it’s enough to make a seasoned ballerina like myself feel a flutter in her pointe shoes.

Let’s start our journey in Paris, where the **Paris Opera Ballet** is a constant source of captivating dance. This month, the troupe is premiering **"La Belle Époque"** by the esteemed **Angelin Preljocaj**. This modern work explores Parisian society in its golden age. Think cascading feathers, decadent gowns, and some seriously daring choreography. Angelin’s mastery of form is undeniable, each gesture evokes a mood, a whispered sigh of a past era. A definite must-see, mon chérie!

While we're in Paris, let's not forget **Ballet Preljocaj**. They are, after all, the creative powerhouse behind this year's **“Rouge”.** This exploration of flamenco passion through ballet is both intense and hypnotic, and frankly, dear reader, it had me utterly spellbound! The male dancers – so bold, so fiery – they really brought the heat to the stage!

Flying over to New York, where **New York City Ballet** is still basking in the glow of its Spring Season. A particularly remarkable piece was **“The Most Incredible Thing”**. I'm completely in love with Christopher Wheeldon's delicate and charming storytelling, so beautifully conveyed by these incredible dancers. There is this beautiful little ballerina (Sara Mearns is simply divine!) who encounters a cast of quirky characters on her journey to find, well, the most incredible thing, which is of course, her true self. I daresay, it was a joyous exploration of dreams, with the most enchanting, fairy-tale choreography you can imagine. The costumes, oh, they are like an explosion of whimsical color and playful shapes – absolutely perfect!

London's ballet scene is as always, a veritable cornucopia of artistic treasures. Let’s not forget **The Royal Ballet**, their “Sleeping Beauty” at the **Royal Opera House** is absolutely stunning! The costumes! The scenery! And let's talk about the fairies, darling - they were like a flight of exquisite butterflies, dancing with an ethereal grace that makes every moment magical. Oh, and Marianela Nuñez, just simply divine, her performance is as technically masterful as it is deeply moving. I can't imagine a more elegant and radiant Aurora.

But London doesn't end there, chérie! Over at the **English National Ballet,** we have the **“Anna Karenina”**. I confess I was drawn to this production not just for its passionate story, but for the opportunity to witness the dramatic artistry of the lead roles. Tamara Rojo – so utterly powerful as the tragic heroine! She dances with such aching vulnerability and desperate passion. I was left breathless, I simply had to rush backstage and tell her how extraordinary she was.

Let’s not forget about those amazing little darlings at the **Royal Ballet School**, who are, as always, pushing the boundaries of creativity. Their recent performance of **"Cinderella"** was both adorable and charming! But what struck me most was the talent on stage, you can already see these little ones are destined for great things.

Our journey continues on to the breathtaking **Hamburg Ballet**. The **“Schwanensee”** (Swan Lake) there is a masterpiece, darling, a real feast for the eyes. The legendary **John Neumeier** truly knows how to craft a production that speaks to both heart and mind. And those stunning dancers, their precision and control leave me absolutely speechless. A breathtaking ballet that takes you on an emotional rollercoaster and I recommend it without reservation.

Speaking of rollercoasters, let’s touch down in Berlin at **Staatsoper Unter den Linden**. They've been causing quite a stir with their **“Onegin”**, which features some rather provocative contemporary interpretations of the classical story. But what I adore about this ballet, darling, is the depth and power it draws out from these performers, their commitment to the emotions and the sheer talent on stage make this ballet a true gem.

But there’s more to this incredible month than just ballets, my dear, much more. We have the always exciting **Dance Reflections by Van Cleef & Arpels Festival**, showcasing talent from all around the globe. I’m particularly looking forward to the premiere of “Tiller in Motion”, by **David Dawson**, a piece I hear is sure to ignite a whirlwind of passion and intrigue. And for the lovers of the bold and avant-garde, **Company Wayne McGregor**, they never fail to push boundaries. Their work is raw, electric, and endlessly fascinating.

The month wouldn’t be complete, however, without mentioning the most anticipated event in ballet. Yes, dear readers, I’m talking about the **Grand Prix de Lausanne**. This prestigious competition, held in the breathtakingly beautiful city of Lausanne, showcases the world’s most promising young talent. I simply cannot wait to see these brilliant dancers soar and to find out which will win a coveted scholarship, a stepping stone to their ballet destiny! As always, darling, this competition promises to be the ultimate thrill! I can’t wait to see the spark of the next great ballerina emerge, and perhaps witness the future of ballet unfold right before our eyes.

So there you have it, my dearest readers, just a glimpse of all the magic that awaits us in the wonderful world of ballet. I’ll be back next month to guide you through the captivating artistry and stunning performances that continue to captivate and move us.

Au revoir and until next month, chérie.

Isabelle du Lac