July Blooms With Artistic Grace
Oh darlings, it's July and the ballet world is ablaze with breathtaking performances, each a shimmering jewel in the crown of dance! I’ve just stepped off the stage in my latest production - oh my, a true spectacle! – and while the lights are dimmed, I have time to steal a peek at the enchanting works happening elsewhere.
It's all a bit of a blur. Flying first class from New York to Milan after a sensational run of Swan Lake in the Big Apple was a delight! It wasn't easy with a packed schedule, darling, but what's a girl to do when everyone wants to see their beloved Odette and Odile, danced with all the pathos and passion my heart could give? Now, on to Rome. Rome! Such a captivating city and of course, opera house perfection. The Italians, they understand how to truly 'live', don't they? So chic! This year it’s been such a delight. I felt utterly adored. You see, these things, they become woven into the fabric of our very souls.
Now, here's a quick look at some of the other jewels I’m seeing around the world, that truly have made me pause and breathe deep!
A Whirlwind of Grace
London: Royal Opera House, Giselle
Oh my! This ballet never disappoints. Such drama, such emotion, so utterly poignant! The costumes at the Royal Opera House, as always, are exquisite and so well-crafted. It's the detail that really elevates Giselle to new heights.
And the dancing! A flurry of tutus, ribbons, and athletic precision – they're nothing short of breathtaking. You could feel the entire audience captivated, just wanting more! My dear, the Royal Ballet is as always, absolutely magnificent.
New York City: New York City Ballet, The Sleeping Beauty
Did someone say "fairy tale"? Well darling, let me tell you – New York City Ballet knows how to spin one! This production is bursting with joy and beauty, like a summer garden at its peak! And those ballerinas... they dance with a purity, such elegance. It truly transports you. My personal favourite - the famous Rose Adagio, the pinnacle of elegance and skill.
Moscow: Bolshoi Ballet, The Nutcracker
Darling, if there’s a Christmas classic you mustn't miss - it's The Nutcracker at the Bolshoi Theatre. Their dancing is on another level - precision and power with the most expressive artistry. I'd watch their leaps and turns all night. My dear, there is an intoxicating energy there – truly magic.
And the sets? They are just the most beautiful, grand and detailed. A truly wondrous experience. Do make time for a performance if you can, and prepare to be whisked away to another world!
Tokyo: The National Ballet of Japan, La Bayadère
Darling, the artistry at the National Ballet of Japan always makes my jaw drop! The La Bayadère was something truly unique! Every dancer’s movement had so much heart and grace - so beautiful and nuanced, especially the incredible Kingdom of the Shades sequence. Simply stunning! A visual feast, that had the entire audience spellbound. I truly envy those Tokyo audiences.
And the costumes - those shimmering, layered garments that evoked an opulent and vibrant India! So decadent and richly embroidered! They brought a new energy to a beloved classic.
A Ballet Bonanza
And then of course, beyond the grand ballet theatres, there is so much beauty waiting to be discovered! I hear about incredible productions around the world – smaller, intimate performances that tell powerful stories, and those, well, I must say are equally exciting.
Paris: A Small Gem
One standout, darling - in the heart of Paris - A Touch of Velvet at a small studio off the Champs-Élysées. This one is intimate and raw, it feels personal. A ballet, oh such beautiful dancing, yet raw with emotion. So, oh, so beautifully put together with the minimalist sets - allowing the pure artistry of the dance to really shine. It is not one for pomp, rather for real emotion.
And let’s not forget the ballet festivals. They are a veritable whirlwind of choreographers, styles and narratives - you find the cutting edge right here, the freshest, the most exciting work being showcased! This year there’s a gem waiting to be found! Perhaps in Switzerland or perhaps the magical festival of Spain. Oh my, where shall I go? It's simply all so tantalizing! But darling, such delights will be another day.
I, oh, do love ballet, every moment!
Behind the Scenes, A Peek
There’s something truly captivating about the inner world of ballet, don’t you think? You see, I don't just dance, darling, I live and breathe the world of dance. And for me, this month, I am truly being kept busy! My calendar is brimming with masterclasses and workshops across the world! It's exciting - it’s what makes it all so invigorating!
We ballet dancers - we are all in our element when surrounded by our beautiful colleagues, sharing our love for the craft, our stories. There’s this magical energy within these gatherings. It is truly something quite magical. As I watch these budding talents emerge from the wings – it makes me realize - the tradition, darling, the dedication - the beautiful stories that continue to be told. All for the love of dance.
Summer Inspirations
And in July, there's an invigorating feel in the air, don't you agree, darling? I always feel so energized - even more than usual, if that’s possible - because of the beautiful dancers emerging across the globe. It's inspiring to watch these young artists - the joy on their faces when they step into the spotlight, with the audience rapt in anticipation. They are full of energy and so hungry to learn, they take my breath away.
You know, darling, what inspires me the most is to witness a budding ballet dancer finding their own unique path – each unique and beautiful like a summer flower! Oh my, to inspire just one individual - is such a gift!
And then there's the thrill of collaborating with world-class dancers and choreographers. This month, it's the incredible, the renowned Mr. Mikhail Baryshnikov - he brings out such magic from every dancer - that spark! So powerful! To experience his genius close-up - it is quite incredible! It’s a month of great artistry.
So, darlings, grab your tickets! Dress in your finest. There are dazzling ballets, breathtaking performances, and new discoveries just around the corner, all ready to inspire. Let us dance with the artistry, the emotion and beauty of the ballet. Have a fabulous July, darlings!