Check out my latest YouTube video on the Bluebird variation performed by François Alu of the Paris Opera Ballet. The Bluebird pas de deux from The Sleeping Beauty is one ballet’s most famous and iconic dances. Although most dance fans are familiar with the segment, the derivation and background of the work are less well known. In this video, I give some historical background for the work, and show one of the best Bluebird variations I have seen, from Paris Opera Ballet’s François Alu. His dancing stands out with great clarity and purpose of movement, making it a preeminent example of this work.
I agree that the performance is spectacular, however, I dislike when dancers don’t leave their arms in second when doing entre chat six. It looks to me like they’re flapping their wings trying to fly away which may be appropriate for the Bluebird. Last fall I saw Aran Bell’s Giselle and he did perhaps two dozen entre chat six and his upper body never moved; his arms in second position. Do you agree?
I tend top agree, Paulette; however, as you said, the “flapping” arms are appropriate for the Bluebird.