Hello darlings, and welcome to another journey through time, here on www.pink-tutu.com! February the 2nd, 1898, the air is crisp and the world feels full of promise. As always, my trusty steed, the magnificent Magic Meg, a shimmering pink Shire with golden hooves and a mane like spun moonlight, has brought me here, a whisper of pink in a world of brown and grey.
My heart, you see, beats to the rhythm of ballet, and every month I take a trip through time, my rucksack laden with excitement and ready to be filled with stories, costumes, and memories from a different era. Today, we’re venturing into the world of ballet as it was in 1898, a world of glittering pointe shoes, sumptuous silks, and stories waiting to be told.
Now, you might think 1898 doesn't sound like a very exciting date for a ballerina - and you'd be wrong! Oh, my dears, this era was brimming with captivating stories and, just like us today, they were mad for ballet.
First, let's have a look at what the ballet world was serving up back then. You know, I absolutely adore the extravagance of late Victorian ballet fashion. And my lovelies, what do I see? In Russia, the Mariinsky Ballet is on tour in Berlin, performing none other than Tchaikovsky’s “Sleeping Beauty”. Can you imagine, a chance to see one of the great classics in such a beautiful setting?
Over in France, Paris was still the heart of ballet, where dancers like the dazzling La Belle Otero graced the stage, known for their spectacular choreography and even more spectacular costumes. Now, my lovelies, we can only dream of seeing these magnificent women performing - imagine the feathers, the silks, the drama of it all!
And across the pond in New York, the Metropolitan Opera is featuring their first season of ballet. Ballet in America was blossoming at this time, with performances by legendary dancer Anna Pavlova becoming a real highlight. Now, don't let me get you started on those tulle tutus, I simply adore them!
While all this is happening, there are smaller ballet companies dotted across the world, each adding their unique touch to the dance. The excitement, you see, was truly global back then. Just think of the passion, the dedication, the stories of dedication and artistry that unfolded in every theatre and every ballet school.
In my beloved Derbyshire, England, life might seem a bit more restrained, but trust me, the love of ballet is burning brightly. The local theatre is hosting a travelling company performing 'Giselle', one of my personal favourites. There is a certain elegance and delicacy in 'Giselle', so truly reminiscent of the era, wouldn't you agree?
Oh, and before I forget, my darlings, remember to check out our shop. We’ve got some fabulous 1898 inspired pink tutu pieces and costumes on sale this month. So, don't miss out on the opportunity to bring a little bit of 1898 ballet glamour into your wardrobe!
But beyond the glamour and the sparkle, I also seek out the heart and soul of the stories behind the performances. Did you know that there is a charming little theatre tucked away in Vienna where they are producing original works that are exploring local folk traditions? I adore these pieces that show us how ballet truly reflects the lives of people. It’s these gems that really remind us that the history of ballet is a human story - full of love, passion, joy and sorrow.
So, there you have it! A glimpse into the world of ballet as it was on this February 2nd, 1898. And remember, my lovelies, every journey through time leaves a mark on the heart. Perhaps this will inspire you to go see a show, explore the history of ballet in your area, or just twirl in a pink tutu, like I am about to do right now.
See you all next month for a brand new ballet adventure, and keep dancing!
Love always,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
