Jewels - Jewels: Opera National de Paris

Jewels - Jewels: Opera National de Paris from 2005 is an exemplary adaptation of the legendary choreographer George Balanchine’s ballet of the same name. Directed by Gerard Mortier, this recording brought the classic performance to the global audience. The production features three prestigious French ballet dancers: Eleonora Abbagnato, Jean-Guillaume Bart, and Kader Belarbi, making this piece a must-watch for all ballet enthusiasts.

The ballet, consisting of three acts, is a wonderful tribute to women and the cities of the world. Each act of the ballet is distinctively styled, highlighting a different era and spirit. Furthermore, each one is titled as a different gemstone - "Emeralds", "Rubies", and "Diamonds", which symbolically represent France, the United States, and Russia, respectively.

The first act, "Emeralds," set to Gabriel Fauré’s music, reveals the refinement and elegance of the French romantic style. Eleonora Abbagnato is the star of this act and she showcases the quintessence of the French culture with grace and humility. Alongside her are other Opera National de Paris ballet dancers whose synchronized moves and the flowing choreography transport you to a dreamy and nostalgic part of French history. Their costumes imitating shimmering emerald jewels and verdant landscapes add to the overall regal and vintage ambiance.

Pushing the boundaries and venturing into a more contemporary realm is the second act, "Rubies", set to the convertible rhythms of Igor Stravinsky. Jean-Guillaume Bart, known for his precise and dynamic dancing steps, spearheads this section. His performance is a stark reflection of the American spirit, portraying an environment of speed, vigor, and modernity. The use of red costumes signifies the vibrancy and the lively spirit of New York City, to which Balanchine pays an elaborate tribute.

The final act, "Diamonds," is a grand homage to the tradition of Russian ballet schools. Kader Belarbi takes center stage in this act, bringing alive the classical spectacles and the grandeur of traditions from his homeland. Tchaikovsky’s stirring Third Symphony accompanies the performances, creating an environment of elegance and impressiveness, which are synonymous with the Russian ballet. The costumes of crystal-like dresses further augment the sublime aura of this act.

The orchestration of the Paris Opera Ballet ushers musical drama to the ballet and contributes significantly to the aesthetic richness of the production. The result is an enchanting and extraordinary ballet spectacle blessed with the magnificence of elegant choreography, invigorating music, and compelling performances.

The combination of Balanchine’s choreography with the unmatched skill and spirit of Eleonora Abbagnato, Jean-Guillaume Bart, and Kader Belarbi make this piece exceptional. The enigmatic and precise movements of the dancers translate the music into an enchanting visual treat. It effectively communicates the inherent beauty, and the cultural and social significances encapsulated in the ballet.

Apart from the dancing and music, the technical aspects like lighting and set design play an important role in bringing forth the captivating atmosphere. The lights bedazzle as they dance upon the reflective surfaces of the costumes and sets, contributing to the illusion of a gemstone-themed fantasy world.

Often referred to as the first full-length abstract ballet, Jewels is a unique blend of ballet traditions steeped in the culture of three diverse nations. This performance by the Paris Opera Ballet offers an emotional journey taking the audience through cultures, aesthetics, historical periods, and musical styles.

In conclusion, Jewels - Jewels: Opera National de Paris from 2005 is a fascinating exploration of ballet. Whether you're an ardent ballet lover or someone new to the world of ballet, this sophisticated masterpiece is bound to leave you mesmerized. This timeless ballet production is nothing short of a celebration of human emotions, cultural diversity, and artistic excellence in the form of dance. Moreover, it is a testament to the beautiful harmony that music and dance can create when they come together.