Last week I went to my first ever ballet performance (of Swan Lake) and it was so magical!
The dancers make it look so effortless, but when you see the principals come out - in particular the Prima ballerina (Lina Seveliova of the Imperial Russian Ballet) in the title role of Odette, The Swan Queen - you realise just how disciplined, skilled, and incredible they are. The way that their bodies bend, curve and twist. It's stunning. I was also blown away by the mannerisms the Prima adopted, such as shaking her bowed head slightly as she emulated the preening swan.

Because I was too scared to attempt a photograph in the theatre (which you shouldn't do, anyway!) I used the above illustration from a 2011 commission for InStyle UK to accompany my post on Instagram. The stunning Mila Kunis as she appeared alongside Natalie Portman in Black Swan, the film based on a cast of dancers performing Swan Lake. I've no doubt that most of you would have already seen it, but if not - hop to it! With costumes by Rodarte and the most amazing performances, it's so beautiful (albeit creepy) to watch!
Of course, if you can catch a live performance you should definitely do it. I think I'm hooked.

Due to popular demand via Instagram I've decided to release the Mila illustration as an extemely limited edition print. Only 25 available worldwide.

If you'd like to purchase please visit my store here: www.birdyandme.bigcartel.com

Bottom image from The Imperial Russian Ballet's Swan Lake captured by Jared Taylor.