Hello, darling tutus! It’s your favourite pink ballerina, Emma, here, back from another whirlwind journey through time, courtesy of my magical shire, Meg. This month, we’re waltzing back to 10th October 1921, and oh, my dear tutus, this trip has filled my rucksack to the brim with beautiful memories!
The air crackled with excitement as Meg and I arrived in Paris. The city shimmered with a jazzy energy, a glamorous blend of the Belle Epoque and the emerging Roaring Twenties. Oh, the clothes! Feathers, sequins, cloche hats, and of course, those decadent long beaded necklaces! It was a visual feast!
But this wasn't just any Parisian evening – it was the night of the opening of the Opéra Garnier. Imagine it! The majestic grand foyer, chandeliers twinkling like a constellation of diamonds, the smell of perfume and cigar smoke hanging in the air. You could almost feel the electricity buzzing in the room.
The performance? A ballet by Michel Fokine, no less! I squeezed my way through the crowds of society ladies, the rustling of their silk dresses creating a symphony of sound. Michel Fokine, one of the greats! He, along with the brilliant Diaghilev, really helped redefine ballet in the early 20th century with their breathtaking productions and groundbreaking choreography. This performance was about to be something special.
Fokine's work always has this beautiful sense of freedom, a defiance of rigid classical structures, allowing the dancers to really express themselves. I, of course, had to admire the exquisite costumes – an absolute dream in swathes of silk, shimmering with sequins and feathers. There was so much pink, you could say it was a tutu explosion! Oh, how I longed to dance amongst those talented ladies.
During the performance, I snuck away to the charming little patisserie opposite the Opéra Garnier for a slice of delicious French gateau – can't travel back in time without a little bit of local indulgence! After my sugar fix, I couldn’t resist indulging in a bit of ballet shopping in the shops near the Garnier – you know how much I love those fabulous dance shoes and headbands from the 1920s! The shop owner was an absolute sweetheart, a real vision in an Art Deco outfit and a feather boa. I bought a couple of pairs of shoes for my collection – it’s not just the dance that makes the dancer, you know, but also the fabulous shoes!
The experience was absolutely unforgettable. From the sheer extravagance of the Opera Garnier itself to the vibrant Parisian night life, the whole evening left me completely enchanted. And the ballet! Well, it was like watching magic unfold right before my eyes.
So, darling tutus, why not try incorporating some of those fabulous Roaring Twenties styles into your next ballet performance or even a casual outing? Flapper dresses and feathered headbands add a touch of jazz to any outfit, and of course, nothing beats the iconic sleek bob! I promise you'll have a great time twirling in all those fringes!
Just imagine, the world is your dance floor, filled with shimmering light and the music of the era. As always, my dear friends, let’s spread some tutu love!
Till next time, keep twirling!
P.S. For those interested in 10th October 1921, the international ballet scene was buzzing with activity:
London's Sadler’s Wells Theatre: A showcase for new, talented choreographers like Marie Rambert – she later founded the celebrated Ballet Rambert. This theatre, now the world-famous Sadler's Wells Theatre, was an exciting hub for innovation, exploring new dance styles and interpretations.
New York's Metropolitan Opera: This majestic venue housed an extraordinary season of opera and ballet productions. The American ballerina, Anna Pavlova, was performing there during this period, bringing her captivating artistry to the world stage.
Russia's Ballet Theatre: The ballet world was still reeling from the rise of Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes – an ensemble that revolutionized dance with their excitingly modern style and vibrant choreography.
Let’s continue spreading the magic of ballet across time and around the world. Until next month, remember – every day is a chance to twirl with a smile! xx
