Dearest readers, it’s Emma here, ready to whisk you away to another magical time-travelling adventure! This month we’re diving deep into the swirling world of ballet on 2nd February 1900 – a time when elegance and artistry held the stage, even if the fashion was a little... different than our modern flair.
Don’t worry, my dear tutufarians, your favourite pink tutu is packed (along with a matching pink feather boa – just for the occasion), and Magic Meg is already snorting and pawing the ground, eager to set off on our exciting journey!
This month's journey: The turn of the century in London!
Imagine it: the scent of horse manure (a charming reminder that Meg has brought us right into the bustle of the city!), gas lamps flickering against cobblestone streets, and ladies wearing hats taller than myself – yes, that was quite a sight! Thankfully, Londoners weren't fazed by a pink tutu – well, not if it was accompanied by my cheerful greetings and, of course, a sparkling, fluffy-tailed, pink shire horse!
The first thing that struck me on our arrival? The absolute flurry of activities within the ballet world. From prestigious shows at Covent Garden to smaller theatre productions popping up like spring blooms, it seems the city was brimming with artistic fervour.
Ballet at Covent Garden
The London Royal Opera House – the home of the prestigious Royal Ballet – was at its zenith in the year 1900. On this date, The Sleeping Beauty was gracing the stage – a dream come true! While the production wasn’t yet the full-fledged masterpiece we know today (imagine that! The Sleeping Beauty still under development!), its performance on this night boasted enchanting choreography, exquisite costuming, and beautiful sets. I even caught a glimpse of Millie (or is it Millie? They say everyone called her Madge!) in the corps de ballet. Such talent, so young!
I'm delighted to report that while tutu styles have undoubtedly evolved since then, the grace, artistry, and passion for dance that electrified Covent Garden on February 2nd is still apparent on stages all across the world – and that makes me positively giddy with excitement!
Beyond Covent Garden
While the Royal Opera House held the crown in the ballet world of 1900, other theatres across London buzzed with their own exciting shows. One production that truly captured my heart was at the Lyceum Theatre. This enchanting, beautiful theatre (my, how I wished for a pink tutu with gold sequin accents!) held a production called Cinderella, showcasing the enchanting talents of Lilian Braithwaite. Such passion and talent – a perfect demonstration of why this theatre became known for showcasing some of the most innovative productions.
It’s worth remembering, dear readers, that these were times when even a small, independent theatre held within its walls a boundless love for the ballet arts, just like today. I absolutely adore this era, the sense of wonder that permeated the air!
More Than Just The Show
What made this trip especially intriguing wasn't just the dazzling shows, but the real-life backstage tales I discovered. Oh my! While the history books offer us facts and dates, those of us with access to Magic Meg get to hear the whispered stories, the heart-warming tales, the unspoken details! I won’t reveal them all (we must maintain some sense of intrigue), but one such tale had me quite enthralled – the story of a young seamstress who defied the odds, crafting exquisite ballet shoes and even securing a coveted backstage position in Covent Garden! The woman is, I daresay, quite a whirlwind, her life as intriguing as a new story by Marie-Catherine d'Aulnoy, the celebrated author of children’s tales. This incredible story had me reminiscing on the ballet shoes I own back home – such beautiful creations! I think it’s safe to say a ballet dancer’s shoes have always been something quite magical.
And Speaking Of Shoes...
During our stay, I decided to try a piece of Victorian shopping magic – an incredible boot-maker's shop just down the street! Their creation, a ballet shoe fit for a ballerina on the stage of dreams, completely enchanted me! Of course, I didn't just walk out with it – a few quick notes in my sketchbook, a peek into their exquisite designs, and, voila! I already have plans to recreate the very same style for a new set of pink tutu accessories. You can thank me later!
Fashion Through the Eras: Pink Tutu vs. 1900 Styles
If I'm honest, the fashion of 1900 is quite… interesting! The women wore such large hats! While their sense of fashion holds an air of timeless elegance, I believe my beloved pink tutus still stand apart. Imagine walking into the Royal Opera House wearing this shimmering, playful, feminine piece – such a stunning splash of colour against the black and white!
What I especially love is the feeling of freedom. In 1900, society demanded certain silhouettes – my pink tutus offer a liberating dance of femininity! I wonder if the women of 1900 would dare embrace such playful attire!
Our Journey Home
The trip was brimming with wonderful sights, captivating ballet moments, and heart-warming tales – quite the magical blend! Back in Derbyshire, the air is already whispering about a new, vintage-inspired pink tutu collection inspired by my adventure!
My, my! Magic Meg and I will leave you with this, dear readers: Don’t let fear or apprehension stop you from pursuing your dreams – just like those ladies of 1900. Perhaps a pink tutu isn’t your style (but really, how could you possibly resist!), but what sparks joy within you? Find it, chase it, dance with it, and be as bold as you can!
Until next month, tutufarians!
Your eternally pink-loving, tutu-adoring Emma!
