Hello darling readers! Welcome to another installment of my Pink Tutu Travels, post number 2997, this month we are dipping into September 1910! Now, I know what you are thinking, why the 9th, what's so special? Well, my dear friends, let me tell you, on this date a little birdie, shall we say, told me about an utterly enchanting ballet premiere! Imagine this...Vienna, Austria, the opulent Vienna State Opera House, and the shimmering premiere of The Legend of the Danube by Josef Bayer! Now, how fabulous does that sound?
Magic Meg, my dazzling pink shire steed with her golden hooves and a mane like spun moonlight, galloped us through the ethereal mists of time to find ourselves amidst the grand architecture and chic Vienna streets of 1910. Vienna is always a treasure trove of ballet history, so I was delighted to discover we had a royal rendezvous to look forward to this September. It was none other than Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary, with his beloved Empress Elisabeth (affectionately known as 'Sisi'). Imagine, twirling our tutus with an Emperor and Empress, darling! Such a privilege!
The Emperor was an avid lover of the ballet, his patronage deeply influential on Vienna's ballet scene. This performance of The Legend of the Danube was quite the event. It was considered the perfect synthesis of drama and choreography, telling the story of the Danube's legendary history. It's said that the production had dazzling scenery and costume design, a symphony of artistic grace and movement. And you can bet I wore my pink tutu to match!
Backstage Glamour & the World of Ballet Fashion
Before we settled in to see the show, I ventured behind the velvet curtain for a peek backstage! The energy backstage was simply buzzing with excitement. The ballerinas, dressed in their exquisitely elegant, corseted and beautifully layered ballet costumes, had this graceful confidence. Their tutus were a delicate and fluid dream, each a work of art in itself. And I was positively smitten with the colours of their tutus. Imagine - the softest hues of lavender, ivory, blush pink, all intricately laced and ribboned. Their makeup was meticulously applied, highlighting their delicate features. I am telling you, darling, these ladies truly embraced beauty and grace with every step they took.
After our visit backstage, I couldn't resist indulging my inner ballerina and shopping spree enthusiast. I made a beeline for the elegant Neumann & Schwartzkopf department store, a place that was the ultimate destination for fashion-forward Vienna society. Their ballet wear section was bursting with everything I dreamt of, darling. Think exquisite pointe shoes crafted from the finest materials, silken ribbons, stylish tulle fabrics, and even a glimpse into the world of ballet jewelry, like delicate silver charms for our shoe ties, simply divine!
Now, back to The Legend of the Danube... Oh my darling! This ballet truly captivated our hearts and senses! We were enthralled by the masterful choreography and the mesmerizing music. Every step, every movement told a captivating story, transporting us through time. You can bet I took some inspiration from this magical journey for my own moves - watch this space, darling! I am sure this trip to 1910 will bring you many pink tutu inspired performances!
Back Through Time & Sharing My Journey
Riding back through the time stream with Magic Meg, our saddlebags bursting with a treasure trove of stories and ballet-related goodies from this magical time, I reflected on the enduring legacy of ballet, especially in Vienna. It is a city where artistry and culture collide, shaping the world of dance forever. I can’t wait to share my discoveries from this incredible trip with you!
Until next time darling! Don't forget, you can catch me on www.pink-tutu.com. Every month I bring a little piece of history right to you, inspiring you to explore ballet history and dance your way through life with passion and flair! Always remember: the world is waiting for you to wear a pink tutu and bring a touch of joy wherever you go.
