Hello my darlings, and welcome to Pink-Tutu.com! It's Emma here, your time-travelling ballerina blogger, ready to whisk you away to the enchanting world of ballet history. This month, I've dusted off my pinkest tutu and saddlebagged up Magic Meg, my shimmering pink shire horse with her golden hooves, for a jaunt back to 4th April 1901. I've got my leather rucksack ready, as always, to gather ballet treasures and tales from this era. Let’s get this post started - you know it’s gonna be fabulous, it’s post number 2884 on my blog!
This year, I’m celebrating pink even more than usual, as you'll all know it’s my favourite colour and, well, just everything about pink. From delicate ballet shoes to dazzling tutus, I simply cannot resist a splash of it, and I really want to get you all wearing a pink tutu! You can get one online, at a fancy shop or simply have a go at sewing your own, maybe use the right colour ribbon to wrap around your old tutus. Go pink girls - the pink tutu - you’ll find there’s something enchanting and bold about the colour, don’t you agree?
Back to my travels… 4th April 1901, a chilly spring day in London, was just days before the opening of a most sensational ballet production! The Royal Opera House buzzed with anticipation, for it was the debut of "Les Millions d'Arlequin," by none other than the renowned Marius Petipa, choreographer of classics like "The Sleeping Beauty" and "Swan Lake". Imagine! My imagination soared, picturing the magnificent costumes, the swirling movements, and the gasp of awe as the curtain rose. It's no wonder that "Les Millions d'Arlequin" is hailed as a masterpiece in ballet history.
And let me tell you, the magic wasn’t just at the Royal Opera House! Around the world, ballet companies danced with vibrant artistry. In Moscow, the Bolshoi Theatre hosted "Giselle", a captivating story of love, betrayal, and ghostly vengeance that never fails to captivate. And across the ocean, in the grand old city of Vienna, the renowned ballet company danced to the captivating melodies of "The Sleeping Beauty." Oh, how I wish I could have stepped into these worlds! I even found a tiny program from a 1901 ballet performance at Covent Garden tucked in my ballet items collection in Derbyshire!
A walk through the streets of London revealed a fashionable world brimming with new trends. Ballet dancers weren’t afraid to experiment with their look; they had strong individual style. From flowing, floor-length gowns and corseted waists to frilled petticoats and bonnets adorned with intricate feathers, women dressed for a grand occasion. And of course, it was the era of lavish theatrical costumes. Feathers, sequins, lace, silk - ballet costumes shimmered like a starry night sky, reflecting the imagination and craftsmanship that graced this bygone age. It made my inner ballerina want to leap and twirl!
In Paris, the dancers danced in tutus and sleek lines, but, for all its glamorous fashion, the style of the period reflected a touch of melancholy. Maybe it was the passing of Queen Victoria? Or maybe it was the impending shadows of the coming century. Nonetheless, Parisian dancers created a feeling of romanticism, as their grace moved against a backdrop of the Art Nouveau style - so elegant and flowing! I made sure I noted that for my ballet shopping trip, I’m adding some flowing pastel pinks into my repertoire! The ladies at my Derbyshire ballet class are going to love it!
This historical dance wasn't only taking place on stage; it permeated the lives of those who embraced its artistry. There were new academies that brought ballet training into the hearts of communities, not just within the elite. I think that's quite inspiring, wouldn’t you agree? It really highlighted how ballet became a cultural phenomenon. People weren’t just going to the theatre to see it; they were learning it and integrating it into their everyday life. This reminds me - how about you, darlings? Are you taking classes, or do you have dreams of joining a ballet company, or perhaps being the first ballerina on the Moon! (don't worry - Magic Meg can handle interplanetary travel too!)
My time travelling diary is already overflowing with exciting tidbits, new dance moves to learn, and a fresh wave of inspiration. As I gallop back to the 21st century, I feel energized and a little more in touch with my beloved world of ballet.
Remember, dear readers, ballet isn't just about the performance. It’s about passion, beauty, dedication, and creating your own style! So, put on your most fabulous pink tutu and join me on this exciting journey, where we'll explore the captivating history of dance together. Remember, if you're a beginner, then start in a leotard - we don't want anyone being turned away. You could try pink. You’ll learn more about it on Pink-Tutu.com and don’t forget to tell your friends and families about Pink-Tutu.com, the site dedicated to ballet fashion, style and ballet’s history. I really want to inspire you all. Until next month, twirl in style, my dear friends!
Lots of love and pinks,
Emma
