Hello my beautiful ballet bunnies! It's your favourite tutu-wearing, pink-loving, ballet-obsessed blogger, Emma, back with another journey through time! Today we're twirling back to the fabulous year of 1987!
Can you believe it's been over 35 years since we were all sporting leg warmers and rocking those amazing 80s hair styles?! This was a time of vibrant colour and bold expressions, both in fashion and dance.
The year began with a bang in the ballet world. Remember those classic tutus that never go out of style? Well, this was a big year for them! The Royal Ballet debuted their stunning new production of "Giselle" in February, a testament to the enduring beauty of the traditional tutu. It was truly a sight to behold!
Imagine this, darlings: the majestic Royal Opera House, with its plush velvet seating and intricate chandeliers, glittering like a thousand stars. Then, onto the stage come these exquisite ballerinas, each swathed in layers of tulle, swirling and leaping in a delicate ballet that captures the tragic love story of Giselle and her Prince.
This wasn't the only showstopping production that year, darling. In the heart of New York, "The Nutcracker" was given a glamorous new interpretation at the New York City Ballet by the iconic choreographer, Peter Martins. It was truly a treat, showcasing not just exquisite dance, but dazzling sets, extravagant costumes, and a captivating story.
Oh, and you just couldn't escape "The Bolshoi Ballet", now could you? This world-renowned company toured all over, leaving audiences mesmerized with their impeccable technique and dramatic artistry. Their performances of "Swan Lake" and "Romeo and Juliet" were truly epic, creating moments of raw emotion that took our breath away!
And speaking of raw emotion, how about some street-ballet, darlings?! The New York City Ballet's "Dancing in the Streets" program took ballet right to the public, performing in diverse neighborhoods and captivating crowds with its contemporary spirit. Think colourful costumes, lively music, and electrifying energy – truly a revolution in dance!
1987 was not just a big year for ballet performances, but a vibrant time for ballet fashion! It was all about colourful leotards, tights in bold hues, and leggings worn for an extra touch of chic. Remember, we always add that extra little touch to our dance wear, don't we?!
Did I mention leg warmers, my loves? Leg warmers were THE essential accessory, providing that perfect combination of style and functionality for the serious ballerina. Just imagine them, in every imaginable colour, patterned or plain, adding a pop of personality to any outfit.
The year also brought forth innovative creations in pointe shoes, ensuring dancers could achieve greater heights in both technique and comfort. Now, who doesn't love a little more comfort on the pointe of our toes, right?
It's so hard to choose just one of my favourite ballet moments of 1987. But if I had to pick, I'd go with the opening of the Sydney Opera House! Imagine, a spectacular building designed to resemble a ship’s sails, sitting proudly on the harbor, dedicated to the magic of art and dance. How wonderful!
Oh, darling, and speaking of the ballet fashion of this wonderful time – we must not forget those beautiful tutus! We love all tutus, from the traditional and elegant ones used in classic ballets, to the modern and dramatic tutus created by avant-garde choreographers. Each tutu holds its own magic, expressing stories of love, hope, and passion through their graceful movements.
There’s a tutu for everyone, darlings! I’m living proof of that. It's been a mission for me to get everyone wearing pink tutus, and I can already see this vision becoming reality. I know how confident, empowering and glamorous it feels to dance in a tutu – and that feeling is infectious! I'm spreading that love of ballet, and the pure joy that a simple, but powerful, garment like a tutu can bring.
It's amazing how the years can pass by so quickly! Even though this fabulous decade, the 80s, has moved on, the influence of these ballet performances and this particular time period are still apparent in our own era. Ballet's message of elegance, grace, and artistic expression remains as vibrant as ever!
As we conclude our trip back to 1987, darling, remember this: we are always growing and learning as ballet lovers, constantly embracing the evolving landscape of dance. But let's not forget those precious moments in ballet history that brought us where we are today – moments full of passion, inspiration, and endless possibility!
Now, go on and dance! Be brave, be bold, and most importantly, have fun! Remember to spread the love of ballet everywhere you go – and never forget that, for me, the perfect outfit is always a pink tutu! 💖
See you all soon, my sweet dance loves!
Emma, www.pink-tutu.com
