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The Ballet Bulletin: April 2020

From the desk of Anya Petrova, Prima Ballerina Assoluta

Dearest readers, as the world blossoms forth with new life, so too does the ballet world. April ushers in a season brimming with artistic brilliance, with productions spanning continents and captivating the heart with each pirouette. Allow me to take you on a journey through this intoxicating landscape of dance, as I unveil the most alluring and captivating ballets on offer this month.

The heart of ballet beats strongly in London this April. The Royal Opera House is awash in elegance with a dazzling revival of *Swan Lake*, a masterpiece that never fails to captivate. The delicate fragility of Odette and the intoxicating seduction of Odile were beautifully rendered by the luminous Maria Kochetkova. The strength and virtuosity of the male role was captured flawlessly by Vadim Muntagirov. But don't let the classic charm deceive you; London's artistic pulse is also electric with innovation. The Royal Ballet continues its pursuit of cutting edge artistry with *Woolf Works*, a poignant and introspective exploration of the works of Virginia Woolf by Wayne McGregor. The stunning choreography and emotional intensity will linger long after the final curtain.

The Palais Garnier buzzes with a tangible artistic energy this April. *Giselle* at the Paris Opera Ballet promises to be an evening of captivating beauty. The tender and vulnerable Giselle is sure to be beautifully brought to life by the sublime Marie Agnès Gillot, while the passionate Albrecht, rendered with captivating charisma, is sure to be an unforgettable performance from Guillaume Penne. The opulent sets and exquisite costumes will undoubtedly be the perfect complement to the story's melancholic beauty.

Across the pond, New York City's ballets pulsate with a dynamic energy this April. American Ballet Theatre ignites a blaze with its production of *Don Quixote*. This exuberant work is sure to be a vibrant treat with the vibrant Sara Mearns embodying Kitri's infectious joie de vivre and David Hallberg bringing the macho swagger of the love-struck Basilio to the stage. The City Ballet also brings *Romeo and Juliet* to the New York State Theater, promising a captivating portrayal of Shakespeare's enduring tale of passion and tragedy.

While London, Paris, and New York command the spotlight, ballet blossoms vibrantly in other corners of the world as well.

• In Tokyo, the prestigious Ballet Theater is staging a stunning new production of *Cinderella*, offering a fresh interpretation of the timeless classic. This contemporary take on Prokofiev's score promises to be an intriguing blend of classic elegance and modern storytelling.
• From the Netherlands comes Introdans, known for its experimental and contemporary pieces. Their program, titled "In Transit," blends the work of several leading choreographers. The company's signature blend of classical grace and daring movement makes this production one to watch for dance enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
• And finally, a nod to the growing popularity of ballet across the Americas. In Mexico City, the Ballet Folklórico de México is sure to deliver a visually arresting show with its vibrant costuming, energetic dance steps and a celebratory atmosphere. The vibrant spirit of Mexico City comes to life through this exuberant performance.

As the world confronts unprecedented challenges, we are reminded of the powerful role art plays in bringing solace and joy. The balletic world offers us a temporary escape from reality, immersing us in stories of love, hope and beauty. The grace and discipline of the dancers, the emotional resonance of the music, and the sheer elegance of the costumes and sets all contribute to an experience that is both uplifting and unforgettable.

So indulge in the magical world of ballet this April. Whether you venture out to a performance near you or simply immerse yourself in a world-class streaming production, allow ballet's artful elegance to soothe and uplift your spirit.

And finally, a small personal note from your own Prima Ballerina Assoluta. The magic of ballet has always been a source of inspiration for me, but now more than ever I find myself drawn to the discipline, beauty, and resilience of the art form. It is my wish that, amidst the challenges we are all facing, the beauty and poetry of dance can offer solace and inspiration to all.

With elegance and affection,

Anya Petrova