Darlings! It's a brand new year, and my oh my, what a season of dance we have to look forward to! From the hallowed halls of Covent Garden to the vibrant streets of Tokyo, this January is set to be a whirlwind of pirouettes and pas de deux.
Let's kick off our tour in **London**, darling! As a long-time resident of this exquisite city, I simply *must* attend **The Royal Ballet's** new production of *The Sleeping Beauty*. Now, we've all seen this classic tale, but I hear this version, under the masterful direction of **Christopher Wheeldon**, promises a breath of fresh air. He's famed for his beautiful lines and dramatic flair, so you know it'll be pure elegance and excitement.
Speaking of excitement, a little bird told me there's a brand new contemporary piece in the mix too - "Celestial Whispers", choreographed by the rising star **Tamsin Bennett**. It seems it'll feature a heavenly score, and **Tamsin** has a way of really moving you. This is not to be missed, darling, simply *not* to be missed.
While I'm at Covent Garden, I simply must check out **The Royal Opera's** offering. Oh my, darling! **Jonathan Miller's** *The Magic Flute* is back! I love it when the operatic world and ballet intersect, it just sparks something divine. There are some of the most magical costumes, the music is so ethereal and I just adore those wonderful Mozart arias.
After London, it's across the pond to the dazzling **New York City**. Ah, the energy! The ambition! And of course, **New York City Ballet**. My eyes always light up when I think of that exquisite company. This month, their production of *Jewels*, by the legendary **George Balanchine**, is a must-see. Now, if anyone understands the glittering brilliance of ballet, it's Mr. Balanchine. The three dazzling sections, inspired by emeralds, rubies, and diamonds, simply epitomise classical grace. I'm almost speechless, just thinking about it!
Now, while **New York City Ballet** will always have a special place in my heart, my journey in the new year takes me on to a far-flung destination - **Tokyo**. It's a place brimming with such artistic verve, you simply have to feel the pulse. Now, this January, the **Tokyo Ballet** are presenting *La Bayadère* at the prestigious **Bunka Kaikan Hall**. The artistry of **Nureyev's** vision has never failed to captivate me. Oh darling, just imagining myself swept away by the exotic charm of this ballet, the passionate story of Nikiya and Solor - well, my heart beats faster simply thinking of it!
Of course, a season wouldn't be complete without a sprinkle of modern magic. I simply *must* visit **The Paris Opera Ballet**, in all its glory, this January. Their newest creation, *Les Oiseaux**, promises a captivating choreography by the remarkable **Sébastien Bertaud**. You see, darling, this young choreographer has such a flair for storytelling. He uses the dancers like brushstrokes on a canvas, crafting narratives with their bodies and emotions. My heart whispers of a thrilling exploration of our human connection to nature. I can't wait to see what he conjures!
Well darling, there you have it! This is a whirlwind of what the dance world offers this January. From London to New York to Tokyo to Paris, it promises to be an exciting time! I must say, these productions and choreographers I've chosen truly reflect the art of ballet at its pinnacle - the fusion of athleticism and grace, storytelling and beauty, in its purest form.
Remember darling, keep your eyes peeled and your heart open, for magic can bloom in the most unexpected places. And now, if you'll excuse me, I have a few rehearsals to attend! See you at the ballet!
But before I bid you adieu, a little preview of my next review! We'll be diving deep into the world of dance in **February**. Oh darling, just picture this: **Miami**, shimmering with the intoxicating rhythms of **Miami City Ballet**. They're hosting a gala for the legendary **Mikhail Baryshnikov**, who will be making a special guest appearance. How fabulous is that, darling?
And then, I simply cannot resist returning to **London** for the **English National Ballet's** *Romeo and Juliet*. This is a production I've loved since my early days as a ballerina. This time, I'll be taking my lovely grandson, to witness the drama and poetry unfold. It will be so exciting to see his little eyes light up at the breathtaking performance.
So stay tuned, darling! It's a season of elegance, passion, and pure beauty. We'll be keeping you informed and ready to take your seat in the world's greatest ballet venues.
With a swish of my skirt and a twinkle in my eye, I bid you adieu for now. Happy dancing!