Although rehearsals and performances
take up most of my time I have been able to party a little. Angus (my husband) and I were fortunate to attend a dinner for Princess Margaret at The Ritz. You may have seen the photo of me in an Amanda Wakely dress that managed to hit a few newspapers and magazines. I found the one in the Daily Telegraph quite disconcerting! The dinner was 3 days after Roberto and I danced the pdd from Act II of Swan Lake in a Gala at Sadler's Wells to mark the occasion of Princess Margaret's Birthday. By the way, the two main photos in this newsletter are from the Gold Virtuosi 2000 International Jewellery Design Awards. (Photos by John Swannell, styled by Hilary Alexander with hair and make-up by Jonathon Malone.)
Did you see the Blue Peter programme on the National Youth Ballet which was broadcast on the 10th of November? I did warn you that the clip I filmed was short. (What I didn't know was that Angus would be in it too!) I really enjoyed the programme as I felt it portrayed the work and time that is involved in putting on a ballet. I felt Matt did really well and I hope you enjoyed both Blue Peter and Toad as much as I did. Toad, choreographed by Wayne Sleep assisted by Christopher Hampson, is a very funny and enjoyable ballet. It's wonderful to see so many young people given a chance to work with such skilled choreographers. If you heard my interview on the BBC World Service (which could also have been accessed through the internet - but has now disappeared) then I hope you enjoyed it. Initially, I thought thirty minutes would be too long, but I was pleased with the end result. Thanks to Hilary Hazzard at the BBC World Service for providing all the broadcast information.
I was lucky enough to be asked along to the press launch for the auction of Dame Margot Fonteyn memorabilia (including things like photos, tutus and pointe shoes). The auction is being held on the 12th December at Christie's and you can get further information from their main website or Dame Margot Fonteyn Sale for the specific details.
Three watercolours of myself, by Gordon King, were recently unveiled at the Opera House. Limited edition prints are available and can be bought on line. You can get further information from Ever English or click on the image of one of the watercolours. If you buy on line you will help raise funds for the Alzheimer's Society.
Last month I promised you
a chance to win a pair of my old pointe shoes, autographed by me. (Unfortunately, I don't have any other pairs to give away, as they are either auctioned for charity or used by the 'Friends' to raise money for the Opera House.) Well, now's your chance. All you need to do is send an e-mail with your name, address and the correct answer to the following question:
Who played my prince in my debut as Odette/Odile ?
The deadline for entries is the16th December. Only one entry per person and if more than one person gives the correct answer there will be a draw to select the winner.
I would like to thank everyone who has sent letters and gifts to me at the Opera House; I really appreciate your support! Thanks also for the comments regarding this site.
I hope you enjoyed the newsletter. Please come back again to see what I have been up to.
Enjoy your dance!!
Darcey
updated 30/11/2000
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