Oh darlings! Can you believe it’s September already? The summer may be waning but the ballet scene is just starting to heat up! Such an exciting month, and I simply *must* share it with you.
As we step back into the crisp autumn air, we bid farewell to lazy summer days and embrace a whirlwind of choreographic masterpieces. I have been *absolutely* captivated by the new season’s offerings.
Oh My, Oh My, Milan!My, oh my, you really should make a beeline for Milan, my darlings! The Teatro alla Scala is truly, truly stunning – both for the architecture and the breathtaking performances. The season opened with a breathtaking production of “The Sleeping Beauty”. Now I must tell you – I have *never* been more moved by this ballet! I simply adore Aurora in the beautiful pink dress with the layers and layers of tulle, her long white gloves – divine! It was such a sweet interpretation. Oh, I could go on and on.
Now darling, while we’re at it, let’s discuss costumes, a ballet must-have. These dancers were absolutely flawless. I swear I spotted a little sparkle around the collar – oh how utterly delightful. Their *haute* couture tutus, with their perfectly constructed form - were an absolute joy to behold. Truly captivating, wouldn't you agree? The precision, the elegance, every graceful move, everything was just perfect! The lighting was sensational and played a huge role in elevating the atmosphere of the production – my heart truly did flutter! It truly was such a joy for my eyes. And you *must* witness the corps de ballet - oh how they mesmerised me, especially when Aurora and Prince Desire are finally awakened after their slumber. Truly, a sight to behold!
On the Move to MunichIf Milan had a “most memorable ballet performance” award, the *absolute* must-see production I can't resist mentioning is the Bavarian State Ballet in Munich’s new interpretation of "Giselle." The production design? Well, simply breathtaking! Modernistic, artistic – it made a very real, almost abstract statement with a wonderful mix of textures and styles – simply exquisite!
Now let’s get down to the most important details: the dancers, the ones that *truly* bring the piece to life. Oh darlings, they were phenomenal. They glided and moved effortlessly and effortlessly through each scene. Their dancing was an art form! Oh how beautifully the ballet brought me to tears. Their costumes - beautifully delicate with intricate layers - were so evocative. So dramatic yet so delicate. And the male dancer, such strength, a real powerful presence - very sensual! Of course, you know me and I'm drawn to the tutus, but oh darlings, they were an absolute masterpiece! There was a real emphasis on precision in each dance movement – I found myself sitting absolutely motionless, mesmerised by it all. Absolutely enchanting, a beautiful reminder of the strength and beauty of the female body! And then when it’s all over, oh what a joy to experience those final, gentle moments, watching as the dancers bow and acknowledge the crowd. Simply breathtaking!
Across the Atlantic and to America!Speaking of elegance and beauty, New York has also delivered the goods this September. The New York City Ballet just opened their season and oh, the opening night was a real hit! Oh, they absolutely *brought it* in a new staging of *“The Nutcracker,”*. This season it is absolutely brimming with vibrant colours and so very contemporary. The dancers are phenomenal, *as always!* The sets are a true spectacle, a magnificent kaleidoscope of shimmering details - what’s a ballerina to do!
And Now a Piece of GlamourAnd what is this autumn without a splash of glitter and sparkle? Oh yes, the American Ballet Theatre also is delivering the glitz and the glamour! The stage at the Metropolitan Opera House has been absolutely sparkling with *“Swan Lake"* – you know, the quintessential masterpiece. Such grace and elegance - these dancers make it look easy but oh, how very *hard* it is! They really pulled out the stops, a veritable fairytale – especially when we were given those beautiful white costumes on black background. A total contrast – it made those long limbs just dance beautifully. I could simply watch these beautiful creatures perform for hours – I know it must sound indulgent to you all, but what an artistry it is to witness such perfect control. It is a reminder of just how strong, graceful, and expressive the human body is, oh my darling!
Oh darlings, I *simply must* have you all come with me for the next trip – just you wait, oh it will be such an enchanting journey – it just makes my soul sing!