Soon, Jagger and Jimmy Fallon appeared on stage—with the tv host introducing himself to the audience as Timothée Chalamet; the joke that keeps on giving in ballet circles. The duo introduced the evening’s showcase of George Balanchine’s Diamonds—the final act from the three-part Jewels production—which is a tribute to the grandeur of the Russian imperial court. “We are honored to be here. It’s such a special night because this is the kick off to the 60th anniversary of Balanchine’s Diamonds,” Jagger said. “I’m so happy to support this company, which does such an amazing job of nurturing classics and promoting new works.”
Set to Symphony No. 3 by Tchaikovsky, a parade of dancers moved gracefully in regal symmetry. True to its title, pristine white tutus and bodices came adorned with sparkling crystals, while tiaras abounded. An intimate pas de deux between the ballerina and her cavalier captivated the crowd, and at its end, a throng of dancers joined the principal couple for an energetic polonaise, prompting a standing ovation from the audience.
As the curtain drew to a close, NYCB principal dancers changed into their best black-tie ensembles and joined gala-goers in the theater’s promenade for supper. Overseen by event design firm Cait & Jules, 65 giant inflatable orbs had been installed, suspended from the ceiling alongside black string fringe. Tables were laden with vibrant ranunculus, deep burgundy anthuriums, and ivory colored orchids that tied in with the colors of the ballet costumes. Further nodding to Set in Stone theme, the flower centerpieces came adorned with mini disco balls and crystal quartz gemstones. A dinner of roasted beet salad, braised short ribs, and a velvety caramel popcorn cheesecake for dessert was a huge hit amongst the 850 seated guests.
“What a night,” Fallon told Vogue. “It’s been years since I’ve been here. I do a show down the street and yet I don’t get to do half the things most people can do in New York City. But I got to see a little bit backstage and all the work that goes into the dancing, and I was blown away. Everything has been mesmerizing. This might be an annual event for me. I’ve got to bring my daughters here and come back.”
By 11 p.m., Jagger was among the first attendees to hit the dance floor, as The Rolling Stones frontman grooved with his choreographer fiancée Melanie Hamrick; a former ballerina herself.
“Ballet is a remarkably special thing to enjoy and to see live. There’s nothing like it,” Rossum concluded.