My darlings! November has always been a glorious month for us ballet devotees. The crisp autumn air seems to lend an ethereal quality to the stage, and the dimming light of the late afternoons simply begs for a touch of incandescent talent to light up the dark. This month was certainly no exception!
First stop: London! And, of course, no ballet season is complete without a trip to the Royal Opera House. This year, they were performing *Swan Lake*, and oh, darling, it was breathtaking! I confess, I've seen this particular ballet many times, but I am eternally captivated by the elegance and sheer strength of the corps de ballet, their white tutus rippling like a wave under the glistening spotlight. It's enough to make you believe in magic. And let’s not forget the incredible performance from young Alina Cojocaru. That final solo – pure poetry in motion! I must admit, my heart skipped a beat or two as she spun around the stage, a white feathered cloud against the velvet backdrop. I've heard some say the piece is a bit cliché, darling, but when you've got talent like that, even the most tried and tested repertoire can become anew.
While in London, I did, of course, pop in for a delightful performance of *The Sleeping Beauty* at the English National Ballet. It wasn't quite as grand or glittering as the ROH, but it had a charm of its own, a slightly more whimsical, fairy-tale quality. I particularly loved the design. It was all wispy pastels and intricate lacework – simply divine!
Next up, darling, Paris. The *City of Lights* never fails to captivate, especially when you're seeking out breathtaking ballet. This time I saw *La Bayadère* at the Palais Garnier, with its incredible, swirling sets. There's something incredibly moving about the contrast between the gauzy silks and the gritty grandeur of this timeless story. The costumes! Exquisite. They were pure art deco heaven - like they stepped straight out of a shimmering dream! It was an absolutely spectacular display of classical ballet.
Of course, a trip to Paris isn't complete without a peek at the world-famous dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet. And, let's be honest, seeing them up close is truly an experience, darling! Their control, their precision, the very way they hold themselves, is almost beyond comprehension. It’s no wonder their fame precedes them! My favourite moment was their stunning interpretation of "The Dying Swan". Simply sublime! So much emotion expressed through such delicate and graceful movement.
From Paris, I jetted over to New York! I simply adore New York - it's a city full of such dynamic energy! This time, the *New York City Ballet* had put on a show that was a real departure from the norm, *The Prodigal Son* by George Balanchine. Bold, striking, and powerful! The choreography, my dear, it was something else! All dramatic sweeps and dynamic jumps. The story itself is pretty bleak, of course, a real lesson in love and loss, but somehow the dancers transformed this tale of regret into something truly magical. You felt the raw, primal emotions, but with an element of poignant grace. A perfect blend of power and passion! It was a bold move for this esteemed company, and the risk certainly paid off!
Then, of course, I simply had to make it over to see the ABT (American Ballet Theatre) for *Giselle*. A classic for a reason, my dears! It never disappoints. The dancing in this particular performance was absolutely masterful, especially the *Wilis* – oh my goodness, those ghostly dancers with their mesmerizing movements! It's enough to give you chills!
Now, darling, let’s turn to a few productions that really left me with that "I must have this on video tape for future viewing" feeling!
- La Fille Mal Gardée – this was just plain delightful! Performed by the Royal Ballet in Covent Garden, this production has all the lightness and charm that we look for in ballet. They say it's a ‘comic ballet’ and it’s definitely very funny, and sweet at times! But it was the dancing that truly charmed me, with effortless jumps and elegant turns! And the costume! It had a distinctly 19th century feel that had all the prettiness without the fuss. Absolutely stunning!
- Cinderella – you’ve seen this ballet, I know you have, but this particular production from the Houston Ballet, had a refreshingly contemporary twist! They were pushing the boundaries with modern set design and clever choreography. There was this particular sequence – I can’t remember who it was, but a dancer with amazing leaps! Simply divine! She moved with a such sense of pure joy, as if each leap was a testament to her love for life – such passion, such energy!
My dear friends, as you can tell, it's been quite the month! From the heart of London to the energy of New York, there has truly been something for everyone, a ballet for each and every taste, mood, and sensibility! What are you waiting for darling? It’s time to embrace the elegant magic of the world of ballet!