Style Inspiration: Atlanta Ballet’s Romeo et Juliette
Sergei Prokofiev and Jean-Cristophe Malliot’s Romeo et Juliette is by far my favorite piece of music and choreography of all time. I’ve yet to hear anything that even comes close to the genius that Prokofiev’s score demonstrates, and every time I’ve gotten to experience the ballet, I’m left with a sense of awe at the masterpiece that I’ve just witnessed. Needless to say, when the Atlanta Ballet announced that they would be including Romeo et Juliette in their 2014-2015 Season (and during my birthday week no less), I was absolutely ecstatic.
When I went to the ballet this past weekend, I had a general idea of what to expect from my previous encounters with this specific work in London and New York, as well as countless hours spent listening to various recordings of the score. I also knew that as the Atlanta Ballet specializes in blending modern and classical elements into their choreography, their production would differ from the more traditional interpretations in that regard.
What I wasn’t expecting was to be so inspired by the lines, textures, drape, and color schemes of the minimalistic, yet extraordinary costumes-especially those of the dancers playing Rosaline, Juliet, and Lady Capulet. Each garment was visually stunning in and of itself, and seemed to be almost tailored to the specific choreography for each character.
Rosaline’s alluring satin drew attention to the curves of her physique, which was well suited for her seductive role.
Juliet’s gold lame` ballgown, sparkled and glistened as she fluttered around the stage, and conveyed a sense of youthful excitement at being at her first ball.
Lady Capulet’s sharply cut black ensembles with long, dramatic sleeves gave her a dominant and authoritative air that was perfectly suited to the persona associated with her character.
The utility of these looks isn’t limited to their use on the stage. If you want to cut quite the curvaceous figure, wearing something fitted with a nice sheen to it will do the trick. Just make sure that whatever piece you choose hugs the body without squeezing it as a too-tight garment will have the opposite effect of what is desired. If you have a more girlish figure and want to spend the evening in style as the “belle of the ball,” an eye-catching metallic piece with pleats that make it extra twirl-worthy will work splendidly. If you want to try your hand at power-dressing, it’s hard to go wrong with a well-cut black dress.
Want to get inspired by these styles yourselves and see the Atlanta Ballet in action? It’s not too late to get tickets to their Thursday, Friday, and Saturday performances. While the union of Prokofiev’s haunting and despairingly beautiful score paired with Malliot’s breathtaking choreography easily makes this a must-see event in and of itself, they will be offering another Girls’ Night Out event on the Thursday performance! In addition to admission to the ballet, this event includes a pre-show drink and party at Cinco Mexican Cantina, and the opportunity to win a gift certificate to Spa Sydell-all for only $35. Tickets for Friday and Saturday range from $23-$124 and are available at atlantaballet.com.
