George Balanchine’s ballet Jewels sparkled with brilliance as it made its grand return to the Adelaide Festival Theatre on Friday, July 12, 2024. The Australian Ballet’s presentation of this opulent masterpiece was nothing short of a resplendent spectacle, leaving the audience in awe of the sheer beauty and technical prowess displayed on stage.

Jewels, choreographed by Balanchine in 1967, is a three-act ballet that magnificently captures the essence of three precious stones: Emeralds, Rubies, and Diamonds. Each act is a distinct gem, radiating its unique charm and showcasing the versatility of the dancers. The acts also correspond to various city across the globe, with emeralds pairing with the elegance of Paris, rubies with the jazzy and bombastic New York and diamonds the imperialism and prestige of St. Petersburg.

The evening commenced with the elegant Emeralds, set to the romantic compositions of Gabriel Fauré. The dancers, adorned in soft green tutus, floated gracefully across the stage, evoking a sense of nostalgia and paying homage to the French Romantic era. The choreography’s gentle and mysterious nature was a testament to Balanchine’s ability to blend stillness with movement, creating a visual poetry that was both enchanting and ethereal. The dancers’ exquisite lines and harmonious formations were a delightful nod to the Parisian ballets of the 19th century, drawing the audience into a world of timeless elegance. Principal couple for the Emerald set Sharni Spencer and Callum Linnane shone whilst pulling off tricky formations with poise.

The mood shifted dramatically with the second act, Rubies, set to Igor Stravinsky’s jazzy Capriccio for Piano and Orchestra. This act was a whirlwind of energy and sass, capturing the vibrant spirit of New York City. The choreography was playful and sharp, with dancers executing intricate steps with impeccable timing and flair. The costumes, a brilliant red, added to the vivacity of the performance, making Rubies a dazzling display of innovation and wit. The Australian Ballet’s dancers, particularly stand-outs Ako Kondo and Brett Chynoweth delivered each step with precision and enthusiasm, leaving the audience breathless and entertained, with a few gleeful chuckles from the audience at the cheekiness of some of the dance moves.

The grand finale, Diamonds, brought the evening to a majestic close. Set to Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 3 in D major, this act was a tribute to Balanchine’s Russian heritage and the grandeur of the Imperial Russian ballet. The dancers, dressed in pristine white, embodied the regal elegance and classical precision that are the hallmarks of Balanchine’s choreography. The pas de deux was particularly spellbinding, with the principal couple Benedicte Bemet and Joseph Caley showcasing impeccable technique. The shimmering backdrop and brilliant lighting design further enhanced the brilliance of this act, making it a fitting conclusion to a night of pure artistry.

The Australian Ballet’s Jewels is a testament to their commitment to excellence. The costumes, re-created with painstaking detail, and the revised sets by Peter Harvey were visually stunning, adding to the overall opulence of the production. The collaboration between the dancers, designers, and musicians culminated in a performance that was truly a feast for the senses.

Jewels at the Adelaide Festival Theatre is an unforgettable experience, a sparkling testament to the timeless beauty of Balanchine’s choreography and the exceptional talent of The Australian Ballet. This bedazzling ballet continues to shine brightly, capturing the hearts of all who witness its splendour.

George Balanchine’s Jewels is on at the Adelaide Festival Theatre until July 18, 2024. Don’t miss this spectacular show. Get your tickets here.