Hello my lovely ballet bunnies! It's Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-wearing time traveller, back with another dive into the dazzling history of ballet! 🩰✨
Today, we're stepping back in time to 1930, a year filled with captivating dance trends, iconic figures, and enough tulle to make your heart flutter. This era saw the emergence of some incredible innovations in ballet and witnessed the blossoming of choreographers and dancers that shaped the future of the art form.
But before we get lost in the steps, let's talk fashion! The 1930s were all about sleek lines, vibrant colors, and feminine elegance, all of which are just screaming "tutu material," if you ask me! The "New Look" revolutionized women's clothing with its fitted waists and flowing skirts, bringing a sophisticated elegance to the scene. It wouldn't be hard to imagine these fabulous styles influencing the way dancers took to the stage, adding a touch of drama and glamour to every performance. Think glamorous evening dresses in daring colours and sweeping, trailing skirts paired with sleek ballet flats – oh, how I long for the 30s! Imagine a dance recital where all the dancers take a bow in shimmering fabrics, flowing sashes and statement shoes. Divine!
As a Derbyshirewoman through and through, I must say, this year was extra special as the world’s biggest and best-known ballet school, the Royal Ballet School in London, celebrated its 75th birthday. The school has been instrumental in shaping generations of ballet stars and is responsible for providing some of the greatest dancers in history, not just in the UK but across the world. I mean, who doesn't love a good celebratory dance?
Speaking of dancers, I can't leave out the legendary Serge Lifar. Oh, what a dancer he was! Known as one of the "Three Bs" of ballet, (that's Baryshnikov, Nureyev and, of course, Lifar!), he embodied everything that made this period so captivating. Not only a stellar performer, but Serge was also a passionate choreographer, weaving beautiful and evocative ballets that are still considered classics today. I've even incorporated some of his steps into my own street ballet routines – imagine, pirouette on the pavement, a little plié at the bus stop!
The year 1930 also saw the emergence of a captivating ballet entitled “La Boutique Fantasque.” I just love the fairytale and romanticism of this production. It’s one of the most cherished and frequently performed ballets of the time. Its dreamy music, inspired by toys come to life, would make even the most seasoned ballet-goer, (or a pink-tutu-clad street-dancer!) go completely soft-hearted! And what about that wonderful fashion in the story? If the ballet is full of beautiful ballet dancers, adorable doll-like girls, charming Spanish señoritas and noble characters from the court, you know that there's got to be fabulous fashion on show. I have it on good authority, that “La Boutique Fantasque” was filled with exquisitely designed and meticulously crafted costumes, not just from the finest silks and velvets, but also those adorable toy costumes. It’s pure ballet magic!
So there you have it, ballet bunnies, another captivating glimpse into the world of ballet in 1930! Full of inspiring moments, artistic milestones, and sartorial delights.
What I wouldn't give to see a show from that era in all its vintage glory. Perhaps next time I travel, I can swing by London's Covent Garden to see one of these shows. In the meantime, I’ll just keep my pink tutu at the ready and enjoy reliving history, one pirouette at a time.
As always, until next time, remember, never be afraid to express your love for ballet and never stop dancing your heart out, even if it's on the cobblestone streets of your local high street! ✨🩰💖
