The highlight of Hamburg Ballet’s tour in Japan was the gala The World of John Neumeier. It was rather a full length piece following the life and career of Neumeier with his major works performed seamlessly, accompanied by his own narration
Alina Cojocaru Dream Project 2014 brings together in Tokyo international artist from the Royal Ballet, Dutch National Ballet and the National Opera of Bucharest. An intimate evening with Alina Cojocaru and some of the best dancers on the world's stages.
Last Friday, The Royal Ballet presented an exciting bill composed of George Balanchine’s iconic Apollo (1928) and two new ballets by acclaimed choreographers Alexei Ratmansky and Christopher Wheeldon. The programme was cleverly designed, since Ratmansky and Wheeldon are renowned explorers of the neoclassical style inaugurated by Balanchine.
The chill outside was certainly a reminder of Siberian weather, but the anticipation of seeing one of the 20th century’s most popular and beloved dramatic ballets (and set in a milder Russia!) soon had the fingers and toes circulating once more.
This Royal Ballet programme, staged to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II, makes an exhilarating tribute, and shows the company on top form in two very different works.
Not so many moons ago, opening night at the Opera House meant dressing up—dinner jackets, long dresses and furs, with of course, the obligatory embellishment of the family jewels. Alas, jeans, shirtsleeves and sneakers are all too often seen these days, so glamour and style must stem from the stage outwards into the auditorium.
