Hello, darlings! Emma here, your pink tutu-clad time traveller, and welcome to post number 3004 on www.pink-tutu.com! I hope you're all ready for a delightful trip back in time, as we hop on board my magnificent steed, Magic Meg, and journey to the world of ballet in 1911!
This month, I’m particularly excited to share the stories from a time that feels wonderfully familiar and thrillingly new at the same time – it's 1911, the beginning of an era of change and a new awakening in the world of ballet!
You know me, darlings, I live and breathe ballet – the classes, the performances, the stories, the costumes… but perhaps my favourite part is exploring its history and witnessing how the art form has evolved. This time, we’re heading to the charming, vibrant city of London, which was bursting with energy in 1911. The spring air buzzed with excitement – you could feel it!
Magic Meg and I arrived in the heart of the city, ready to soak up the creative atmosphere of the time. My heart fluttered as I realised the city was humming with a beautiful cacophony of music – a symphony of voices from opera singers in Covent Garden and the thundering hooves of horses pulling hansom cabs, all intertwined with the delicate sounds of a waltz spilling out from the grand ballroom of a stately mansion.
And let me tell you, the fashionable set were waltzing their way through the Spring, all in exquisite finery! It seemed like every shop window was a treasure trove of magnificent silk and velvet gowns, with extravagant feathered hats and delicate lace. The ladies, their hair perfectly coiffed and faces powdered to perfection, moved with elegance and grace. Oh, to have lived in that era, just for a fleeting moment, with its glamour and romance!
Of course, no trip to London in 1911 would be complete without a ballet performance! The iconic Royal Opera House was buzzing with energy, anticipating the evening's production. Now, imagine my delight when I found out it was the London Opera House Ballet! This company, composed of a blend of dancers from different nationalities, was already making a name for itself for its innovative interpretations of classical works. I was swept away by the beauty and artistry on display – the delicate movements, the intricate steps, and the raw passion radiating from every single dancer. It felt like time stood still as I absorbed every single detail of this beautiful ballet performance!
But that’s not all, darling! In my leather rucksack, I have collected several captivating ballet-related stories for you from this delightful journey:
Firstly, a little known fact – the very first ballet school in England was actually founded by a French dancer named Pierre Desbarre, in 1681! He brought the art form over from France to England, setting the stage for centuries of captivating ballet history. He set up his academy at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and his teachings were a major step towards making ballet a central part of the performing arts world in London. This fascinating history makes me so grateful to have the opportunity to experience this glorious form in its various stages of development!
Secondly, we cannot talk about ballet history without acknowledging the legendary Diaghilev! You see, this extraordinary impresario was pioneering modern ballet. This remarkable artist was already revolutionizing the world of ballet with his Ballets Russes He took the stage by storm, attracting artists, composers, and choreographers of exceptional talent from all over Europe. His innovative blend of dance, music, and stage design captivated audiences in a truly unforgettable way!
Thirdly, what’s a ballet enthusiast to do in London in 1911 but venture to a shop called Le Ballet? It was heaven for a ballet lover, and I had a blissful afternoon indulging in the glorious range of beautiful, luxurious leotards, tunics, and dresses designed by some of the most influential figures of the fashion world! You see, darling, back then, the distinction between ballet and high fashion was not so defined, with dancers being seen as the epitome of elegant style and grace.
Finally, to my heart’s delight, 1911 also witnessed a boom in the number of new ballet schools and academies popping up across London! I absolutely love this era in history – a perfect time for dancers! A new generation of ballet students eager to learn and explore the art form is truly wonderful, as is the fact that women, like my dear, talented fellow ballet bloggers, were finding their voice in this dynamic artistic arena.
It is important to note that while London buzzed with energy and activity, there was another wave of innovation rippling across the world, starting with a revolutionary concept – ballet shoes! These beautifully crafted shoes, meticulously handcrafted with delicate satin and flexible leather, were not only essential for dance but were being embraced as fashion items, becoming a symbol of a certain Parisian elegance! Even at this early stage in the development of this item of dance attire, ballet shoes began to be recognised for both function and fashionable flair, setting the scene for the fabulous footwear choices we have available to us today.
With a heart full of inspiration, Magic Meg and I returned to Derbyshire. What a magical journey, truly a whirlwind of vibrant culture and captivating artistic performances! And let's not forget, darling, we can all take part in this incredible journey. There’s something truly captivating and empowering about slipping on a pink tutu – a symbol of dreams, elegance, and, of course, ballet! I invite you all to share your own ballet moments – tell me your favourite ballet, your ballet school memories, and of course, your most glamorous tutu stories!
So until next time, keep dancing your dreams and keep twirling, Love, Emma, The Pink Tutu Time Traveller!
