It is hard to imagine a more perfect dance partnership than that between Natalia Osipova and David Hallberg. That perfection was made very clear in the opening moments of Pure Dance, a program of six short works curated by Osipova. She and Hallberg began the evening with the main pas de deux from The Leaves are Fading, a masterwork from Antony Tudor, first performed in 1975. With its intricate and demanding choreography, this pas de deux requires beautiful fluidity from the dancers and absolute trust between them, such is the nature of some of the spectacular partnering that is required. Osipova and Hallberg had it all. They were in total control technically and able to project such joy, and such pleasure in being together.

Natalia Osipova and David Hallberg in The Leaves are Fading. Photograph © Daniel Boud

From Osipova we saw incredibly liquid arm movements, beautiful use of the upper body, and an ability to make every movement look so easy. There was almost a nonchalance in the way she executed the choreography. From Hallberg came breathtaking turns, and pure classical line throughout his whole body. It was inspirational dancing.

The two works...