30 May 2011

Trace

This is just stunning! It's by the Australian Ballet titled Trace by Alice Topp.  It was posted on Dave Tries Ballet along with some other amazing ballet videos.  I don't always find the classic ballets as interesting as contemporary works and this one is quiet, strong and raw.  I'm re-blogging it mainly so I'll have it to re-watch whenever I choose! 

29 May 2011

In which the Melancholy Swan feels her toes again

Our penultimate class the week before last was much like the others before it.  It was such a joy to move and work.  Even learning the thigh burning grande plie was a pleasure.  At the end of class I left with the usual feeling of light and grace, but this time it stayed!  We didn't have class this week because the children were having their showcase, and it is still there.  When I stand still I have to remind myself not to go up on my toes (in public) and I continually move my feet from demi-point to point trying to get the strong toe-curl in point.  I missed it terribly and am thrilled that it has returned.

Winston Chruchill described depression as a black dog that followed you everywhere.  I've decided to name mine Roger.

23 May 2011

A Bevy of Swans


bevy: A group of birds, particularly when closely gathered on the ground.

14 May 2011

In which the Melancholy Swan attempts to submerge herself

 Classes are over, exams are graded, and issues at work....well, let's say they are on hold until August.  To start pulling herself out of the black mire of melancholy, the Melancholy Swan is immersing herself in dance and her own research for the summer.

Edgar Degas, Melancholy, c. 1874
For the past few weeks, the lightness and glow from ballet class faded within moments of leaving the studio, when it once sustained me for almost a week. I'm hoping that two classes a week will help me get it back. I also bought two orchid plants for my desk at home and living room and will be buying a posh candle (Jo Malone or Dyptique) in a lemon or lime based scent. Citrus scents are said to be good for melancholy. I'm very persnickety about scented candles so the Melancholy Swan can only buy them occasionally.

For Thursday's class we were in the large studio (usually we are in a small practice studio) using portable barres.  I have to say I didn't like them terribly much because I kept worrying that I was going to bang my foot into the pipe on the end.  What was great was the space we had for center exercises.  For an hour, everything else was forgotten, but only for an hour.

08 May 2011

In which the Melancholy Swan ...

has been far to melancholy to post of late, but not too much to cheer for her friend (and current hero) the Adult Beginner on the occasion of her first pointe class!