Weekender Ballet spins trends off stage

By Lee Hyo-won

Ballet is all the rage — not only onstage but also on screens, runways and beyond.

The Korea National Ballet Company’s latest production of “Giselle” last month attracted record audience numbers with sold-out performances, while Natalie Portman’s Oscar-winning film “Black Swan” is currently topping the local box office.

In Los Angeles, the exquisite Rodarte tutus that appeared in the film are on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art; all over the world ballet flats have long become every woman’s must-have fashion item.

Viewers can be spotted humming Tchaikovsky after watching “Black Swan,” since the soundtrack is comprised entirely of the Russian composer’s ballet music. While the original motion film soundtrack is available, there are also recordings of “Swan Lake” by famous orchestras.

Fans should consider one by the Orchestra of the Mariinsky Theatre, conducted by Russian Maestro Valery Gergieve in St. Petersburg. Released under the Decca label, the recording heightens the drama and pristine touches of the original story and is one of the most definitive symphonic renditions of “Swan Lake,” albeit with some irregular tempi that naturally occur during live performances.

Meanwhile, those longing to catch some classic ballet onstage should mark their calendars. The Universal Ballet Company will stage “Don Quixote” at Seoul Arts Center from March 25 to 28. Kang Ye-na among others will appear in the main cast. Call (02) 580-1300 for more information.

Try pirouettes yourself

If you’re looking for a more hands-on experience of the art, there are classes available for all ages. Both UBC and the Korea National Ballet Company (KNBC) offer lessons for young children. Older fans should check out programs for adults. KNBC offers beginners and intermediate weekly classes, which attract a diverse following from journalists and soldiers to housewives who once dreamt of becoming a dancer.

Visit www.kballet.org (Korean) or call (02) 587-6198 for more information.

Repetto, the famed French maker of ballet shoes, opened up a studio in Cheongdam-dong, Seoul. There are classes where mothers can spend a meaningful time with their children or those for young men and women that emphasize posture and health. Members of the KNBC also regularly give lectures and feature in other events.

Call (02) 540-1731 for more information.

To stock up on supplies, visit Repetto for toe shoes galore. Grishko Korea also offers a variety of dancing shoes and costumes, from its namesake Russian label to Bloc, both on and offline.

Visit their website www.grishkokorea.com.

Inspiration for ballet is not limited to the stage and studio. Repetto offers not only an array of pastel-toned flat shoes for spring, but also wedge heals and a design inspired by Michael Jackson. Check out the flagship store in Cheongdam-dong or the corner at Galleria Department Store in Apgujeong-dong.

Also, those curious to check out designs by Rodarte can visit 10 Corso Como, a multi store that specializes in imported luxury brands, also in Cheongdam-dong.

For more information, visit www.10corsocomo.co.kr.