Hello, lovelies! It's your favourite pink-loving, tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, back again for another exciting journey through history. This month, we're heading to the balletic hot spot of... June 1919!
As always, Magic Meg, my magnificent pink shimmering Shire horse with her golden hooves and snowy mane and tail, is waiting patiently outside the Derbyshire cottage where I've been practicing my fouetté turns. We’ve got a show to catch in New York! She really loves a good adventure, although I’m not sure she enjoys the travelling through time quite as much as I do!
A Time to Celebrate!
June 1919 was a time of great joy and celebration. After the devastation of World War One, the world was starting to find its footing again, and people were ready to embrace life’s pleasures, including, of course, the beautiful art of ballet!
And speaking of joyous occasions, June 1919 saw the birth of two absolutely fabulous dancers!
Firstly, the divine Alicia Alonso, who would become the greatest Cuban ballerina of all time, was born. What a magnificent dancer she became. Her fiery spirit, combined with exquisite technique, made her a legend. It’s hard to believe that June 1919 is where it all began! I imagine all the ballets she danced… The Firebird, Swan Lake, and all the wonderful choreography from the great choreographers of her time… Can you just picture the excitement, the anticipation, as she danced across the stage?
And then we have a new ballet legend, just weeks away, who was also born in June, and that is Rudolf Nureyev! Can you believe, two absolute superstars were born so close together? Nureyev, of course, is famous for his stunningly athletic performance and incredibly daring interpretations of traditional ballets. His charismatic presence was magnetic on the stage, and the dance world was enthralled.
The ballet world was clearly in very capable hands with the arrivals of these two legends! They are two shining lights of this period and the impact they have had on ballet is just astounding! I think they're the very reason so many girls and boys today wear pink tutus, though!
New York, New York!
Oh, what’s more exciting than arriving in New York, after an hour and a half in the saddle with Meg, and watching the world move into a new era of dance? I feel a sense of joy every time I see the Statue of Liberty, always such a powerful symbol of freedom. It always makes me feel like the possibilities are endless!
This month, I'm visiting the iconic Metropolitan Opera House, which was also the home of a brand-new ballet company, the American Ballet Theatre. Oh, the sheer glamour! My pink tutu felt perfectly at home amongst the glamorous crowd, and the air was filled with the excitement of the evening.
Imagine all those elegant ladies in beautiful gowns, with stunning jewellery, all enjoying an evening of delightful dance!
This evening's programme included the delightful Coppelia. It’s an absolute classic and has been enchanting audiences since 1870. It’s such a gorgeous, joyous ballet, full of laughter, colour, and charming choreography, I could dance for hours in this captivating tale of love and laughter.
It's fascinating to see how ballet has continued to thrive in the wake of war. It reminds me of how art is a vital form of expression, particularly during turbulent times. It’s a testament to the resilient spirit of the human soul, finding beauty and solace in the face of adversity. I felt a sense of connection to all the dancers I saw. Each movement they performed felt charged with meaning, a celebration of life and art.
Time Travel Style: June 1919
For my June 1919 adventure, I’m opting for a look inspired by the style of the flapper girls – it's so much fun! Just a hint of rebellion and a lot of femininity.
My signature pink tutu gets a little makeover, shortened to reveal the bottom of my ballet shoes, and my leotard is adorned with exquisite beading. My hair is bobbed in a trendy style, adding a modern touch to the whole ensemble. I’m also wearing my beautiful ruby earrings – I collect vintage pieces on my travels and love nothing more than mixing and matching my favourite jewellery. It's so empowering to be both fashionable and expressive at the same time!
Don't forget to follow my journey on @pinktututravel, where I'll be posting more pictures and insights into this thrilling month.
See you next time, and don't forget: a little bit of pink never hurts!
Yours always, Emma
