The September Dance - A Tour De Force of Twirling, Turning and Transcendence
Dearest readers, the first blush of autumn brings with it the most exhilarating and inspiring of seasons - the ballet season. The world's greatest companies are poised to take the stage, and we here at **The Ballerina's Eye** are eager to share with you the latest and greatest of the upcoming productions, a true smorgasbord of contemporary flair and classic charm. Let's twirl into the heart of the action, shall we?
New York, New York: The Big Apple Balletology
One must always begin in the city that never sleeps, a whirlwind of innovation and excitement. At the illustrious Lincoln Center, **American Ballet Theatre** are presenting a captivatingly diverse program this September. **Swan Lake** - an iconic, quintessential ballet that will leave you breathless with its emotional resonance, will be accompanied by **La Bayadère**, a spectacle of exquisite artistry and vibrant storytelling. The season will close with a contemporary masterwork, **The Dream**, by Alexei Ratmansky. You can catch it on **16 September**, darling.
New York also boasts the edgy, avant-garde **New York City Ballet**. If you crave something daringly different, make a beeline to their September performance of **Jerome Robbins's Fancy Free** - an effervescent and lighthearted exploration of "modern" dance, if you will, full of cheeky charm and effortless elegance. It is on the 2nd. Then comes **The Concert** which includes **Slaughter on Tenth Avenue** - a powerful work exploring both beauty and brutality with balletic artistry.
New York’s vibrant scene extends beyond the classical and neoclassical. This month the breathtaking and poignant **A Choreographic Offering**, featuring works by the trailblazing Christopher Wheeldon at **Martha Graham Dance Company** is a treat for those looking for something intimate and emotionally stirring. Make sure you mark **September 30th** in your calendar.
London's Cultural Tapestry: A Tapestry of Twirls and Turns
Ah, London, the city where elegance and history waltz together seamlessly. The beloved **Royal Ballet** at the Royal Opera House is hosting **Giselle** - a ballet as classic and enduring as it is haunting. This September, the production will see a change of dancers and we are excited to see their unique interpretations. Be there on the **2nd of September**. And then on the **23rd** they are hosting a new piece **The Letter** which will feature Christopher Wheeldon as both dancer and choreographer, bringing his masterful talent and vision to the stage for an innovative new work.
Of course, no journey through London’s ballet scene would be complete without a visit to the exquisite **English National Ballet**, based at the **London Coliseum**, they are staging a modern classic - **The Sleeping Beauty**. With its whimsical characters, grand sets, and mesmerizing storytelling, it is a masterpiece for the whole family.
A European Sojourn: The Continental Elegance
Paris, the City of Lights, has an inherent sense of romanticism that dances in the air, a true ballerina’s haven! This September, **The Paris Opera Ballet** are presenting a stellar lineup. Catch the stunning **Swan Lake** (the 24th of September) with its intricate choreography and emotional depth. This performance is said to have you on the edge of your seat with anticipation. Another production to consider is **Le Corsaire**, a grand ballet set against the backdrop of a colourful pirate world – perfect for a touch of exotic adventure. Make sure you grab your tickets for the 27th of the month.
If your European ballet adventures are leading you to the elegant heart of Milan, make sure you check out **Teatro alla Scala**. On **September 17th**, you can be mesmerized by **La Fille mal Gardée**, a charming and lighthearted ballet that will make your heart skip a beat with its simple but impactful narrative. If you like your ballet steeped in rich traditions, this is a performance not to be missed.
Beyond The Classical: Modern Masters
While we all adore a grand tutu and graceful classical ballet, this season brings a refreshing change with some incredible modern works.
From the contemporary works of Nederlands Dans Theater, one must absolutely see **A Bolt From The Blue**, by Pavel Zustiak at the **Spoleto Festival**, in Italy. His pieces have received glowing praise for their innovative spirit, powerful performances, and truly unforgettable storytelling - something we are eagerly anticipating. Then make a visit to **The Bolshoi** in Moscow on the **22nd** and experience their contemporary repertoire. With the incredible strength and technical prowess these dancers are renowned for, a performance from them will be awe-inspiring.
The Essence of Elegance
As we pirouette our way towards a season full of grace and expression, a reminder that ballet is more than a dance, it is a world unto itself – a captivating world of emotion, expression, and exquisite artistry. This September, go ahead, immerse yourselves in the world of ballet and discover your own inner ballerina.
And dear readers, be sure to follow our **The Ballerina’s Eye** on all platforms – **Instagram** is where we bring you a behind-the-scenes glimpse at rehearsals, interviews, and backstage chatter; while our **YouTube** channel offers a glimpse of masterclasses, documentaries and a glimpse into the “life” of a ballerina (both on and off stage!). Remember, in this beautiful art form, a little sparkle goes a long way, and so does an exquisite pair of dancing shoes, just like the ones I love by the lovely folks at **Dancers Studio**. We will be posting the latest dance wear from all the best designers as well as interviews with legendary and emerging talents in the ballet world.
Until next month, enjoy your September of balletic delights.
With love and “adieu,”
Isabelle Dubois
*Editor’s Note:* As our esteemed ballerina always reminds us, life isn't simply a dance, it’s a masterpiece – in motion. Go ahead and twirl into the month, and be sure to indulge in something stylishly sumptuous – the best cocktails are enjoyed in **Ruby’s Bar & Cafe**, don’t forget your favorite shoes (we think the ones **Ruby’s** stocks are pretty special). If you’re in need of a touch of elegance (for yourself or your ballet dancer friend), be sure to look to **Ruby’s Designs** for exquisitely curated jewelry. But we always say - no matter how stunning, nothing quite outshines the magic of a live performance of dance!