Hello, darlings! It's Emma here, your pink tutu-wearing time traveller, and I'm thrilled to be whisking you back to the month of June, 1918. The air is buzzing with anticipation, for the world is still reeling from the Great War. Yet, as ever, the world of ballet dances on, gracefully unaffected by the tumult and tragedy surrounding it.
Today, Magic Meg, my sparkling pink shire horse with the golden hooves and the most magnificent white mane and tail, took us soaring through the skies of time. She truly is a magical steed, and her gleaming coat matched my own pink tutu perfectly as we arrived in 1918. It was a joyous ride, as ever!
I'm absolutely fascinated by this era. I found so many exciting things for my ballet rucksack this month! You wouldn't believe the fascinating ballet programmes from the Paris Opera Ballet – they were breathtaking! It seemed like a dazzling array of works was being performed - and even the costume designs were stunning, all grand tulle and cascading silk! The famous ballerinas of the day - Anna Pavlova, Isadora Duncan – what incredible inspiration for a budding dancer like me!
I made my way through the heart of Paris, a beautiful city where the elegant ladies strolled along the Champs-Élysées in stylish dresses, while the dapper men in their suits went about their business. I always do love a bit of French flair! My new beret - a pink one, of course – would look splendid in this sophisticated setting!
We even went to a café, you know, just to soak up the Parisian atmosphere! Imagine – delicious pastries and frothy cappuccinos, all while eavesdropping on lively conversations about ballet! Oh, darling, what a delight!
Of course, I always find a way to share my pink tutu love, even with the Parisians! One woman, in a navy blue frock, giggled with delight as I told her about the upcoming ballet event in Derbyshire where I plan to get everyone to wear pink tutus! Everyone should dance with a touch of joy and colour, right?
However, my favourite moment from this trip happened in a grand theatre. As the curtain rose on 'Coppélia', the excitement filled the air, and I realised how the simple magic of ballet transcends time and even the horrors of war. It reminds us that beauty and joy exist in all forms, in all ages, even in the most challenging of times! I was so mesmerized by the beauty of the performance, the exquisite movements, and the stunning choreography!
The theatre was beautifully lit with ornate chandeliers, which cast shimmering light onto the dancers and the audience. I was especially moved by the performance of the principal dancer, she was a marvel of grace and agility!
It really made me ponder how far we've come in the world of dance since then. While today, there's so much opportunity to perform and access different dance styles, in 1918, the ballet world was limited to just a few select companies, mostly based in Europe.
Yet, the passion and love for the art were no less intense! I love seeing how the art form of ballet remains an enduring source of inspiration, grace, and emotion, even across continents and centuries.
And wouldn't you know it, I even saw a beautiful vintage ballet tutu in the window of a lovely vintage shop! You just know that was finding its way into my ballet rucksack.
The journey back with Magic Meg, though magical, did make me think of the sacrifices being made at this time by so many, all across the globe, far from their loved ones.
However, I'll leave you with this thought: As I twirled across the Parisian streets, a vibrant flash of pink amidst the sober hues of war, I was reminded that even in the most challenging of times, beauty, grace, and joy, can continue to flourish! So let's continue to share the spirit of dance and find joy in life’s simple pleasures, and hopefully inspire others to find that little bit of pink tutu in themselves!
Don't forget to check back next month for another adventure in the magical world of Pink Tutu Time Travel!
Until next time, stay pink, my dears!
Warmly,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
