Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, back with another delightful escapade through the glorious history of ballet! This month, we’re taking a trip back to 5th May 1918, right in the midst of the Great War.
This month’s blog post, number 3089 for those of you keeping track, takes us to a very special time – a time when even war couldn’t stop the passion for ballet. Now, I know what you're thinking: how can we travel through time when the world is at war? Fear not, darlings! With my trusty steed, Magic Meg – the most glamorous pink Shire horse you ever did see with her golden hooves and cascading mane – we can travel anywhere! Just remember, when we're away, you can check in on our blog at www.pink-tutu.com for your monthly dose of ballet brilliance.
Today, the journey began at my little cottage in the heart of Derbyshire, surrounded by fields of wild flowers that burst into a riot of colour when the sun was out. After a quick practice at the barre and a cup of tea with a little homemade strawberry jam, I donned my most magnificent pink tutu, carefully layered under my favourite tailored riding coat (because you can never be too chic while time-travelling!) and hopped onto Magic Meg.
The journey itself was just as magical as usual. The wind whooshing past, the smell of wildflowers, the endless fields shimmering under the sun. All this while riding through centuries – it’s all just part of the job! My little leather rucksack, which you'll see me sporting in many of my Instagram posts, is overflowing with ballet history treasures from our adventures. Each item whispers its own story from a past era. Just look at these exquisite ballet shoes from the Victorian era – pure silk, so delicate. And those ballet slippers, they practically float with their delicate ties.
Once we arrived at the year 1918, the air was heavy with the sounds of war – planes soaring overhead, muffled gunshots echoing in the distance. It was definitely different from the usual peace of my Derbyshire countryside. But even in wartime, the world still held onto beauty, grace, and a love for the art of ballet.
On this day, the legendary Diaghilev Ballet Russes company was preparing for another mesmerising performance, even with the challenges of the war raging. They continued to tour the world with their incredible talent and artistry, even amidst hardship. In 1918, they travelled to the United States to tour and wowed audiences with their iconic ballets like "Scheherazade" and "The Rite of Spring," that set the stage for a new era in dance and forever changed how ballet was understood around the world. The company was like a ray of sunshine, shining light into dark times. Their shows were a much-needed escape for everyone from all walks of life. The ballerina's grace, the incredible costumes, the breathtaking music – it's easy to see why they had everyone, from the aristocracy to the average person, captivated by their artistry!
One can imagine, back in the day, people dressing up in their best clothes to see the Ballets Russes. Now, that's an event worth time-travelling for! Imagine a whole ballroom filled with ladies dressed in elegant gowns, gentlemen sporting tuxedos and those wonderful, oversized feathered hats, everyone waiting for the curtains to open! I’d give anything to be transported to a vintage show like that. Perhaps we can add that to our next time-travelling escapade!
Speaking of ballet fashion, there's no doubt that even during the war years, a beautiful and timeless sense of style permeated every aspect of dance. I'm positively giddy thinking about it all! I think that some of the ballet costumes of this time have aged beautifully – there's something so effortless yet dramatic about the silhouettes and the colours they use, even in those stark, black-and-white photos of the time.
If you are searching for a little inspiration, think about exploring this style yourself. How fabulous would a deep red, floor-length skirt look, topped with a beautiful bodice that is fitted around your torso with a large, white bow or scarf? And who can resist the elegance of the Victorian Ballet Shoes! Imagine yourself twirling in the soft fabric of these luxurious pieces. Or, imagine your little girl dancing around in her own cute ballet dress and satin slippers. Now, that's a perfect memory just waiting to be made!
Now, tell me, what are you going to do with all this newfound inspiration? Are you going to design a ballet-inspired dress for your next party? Perhaps plan a little tea party, all in pink, with delicate cucumber sandwiches?
Or maybe, just maybe, you'll try your hand at some ballet steps yourself! It's never too late to dance! So put on your favourite pink tutu – I know I have plenty of amazing ones – grab your pointe shoes, and dance your heart out, my lovelies!
Until next month, stay pink! And remember, dance is magic!
Love, Emma
P.S. Don't forget to check out my next blog post, where we travel to a special time when ballet was undergoing a huge change – the dawn of a new century, a new era! What will we discover next? You'll have to wait and see!
