Sylvie Guillem's long goodbye

AT the age of 50, acclaimed dancer Sylvie Guillem has made the decision to hang up her dancing shoes for good. But like all good performers, it will not be a quiet exit.

For her swan song, she has embarked on her final tour with a showcase of works created specially for her, aptly titled Life In Progress.

"Yes, this is really my last performing tour," confirms the French ballerina who joined the Paris Opera ballet at the age of 16 and has blazed her own trail since.