#BalletHistory during 1923 02 February

Hello, darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels, your monthly dose of ballet history and fashion! I'm Emma, your Derbyshire-born, pink tutu-wearing, time-traveling guide.

This month, we're waltzing back to 2nd February 1923. As a dedicated ballerina, you know Valentine's Day isn't just about chocolates and roses (though I do adore those, too!). For us, it's the perfect excuse to celebrate the heart of dance: love, passion, and artistry!

Magic Meg, my dazzling pink-sparkling Shire horse, is all saddled up, ready to whisk us to the theatre where the magic happens. Today's destination: a vibrant, romantic "The Sleeping Beauty" at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. Imagine, a ballet that encapsulates a Valentine's Day dream with a dashing prince, a sleeping beauty, and all the swirling tutus you can imagine!

We've arrived in London and as soon as I step off Magic Meg's back and onto the bustling pavement, the excitement of the time period thrums through me! My rucksack, laden with ballet items, is feeling extra heavy, so I'll fill you in on the stories and details later, once I've enjoyed the show.

Firstly, you might be surprised to learn, there’s a fascinating "new" (as it were) dance form capturing Londoners' hearts - it's called "Character Dance." Imagine traditional ballroom dances and theatrical expressions blended to tell stories and showcase graceful, sometimes mischievous movements. It's definitely got the crowd talking, just as much as a captivating waltz.

Over at the Empire Theatre, the world's premier dance hall, "Dancing" - with a big capital D - is all the rage. And let’s not forget about the beautiful music that enhances each performance, the tunes created by talented composers like Rachmaninov, Debussy, and Stravinsky. It's music perfect for those romantic, expressive character dances, creating a breathtaking ballet atmosphere.

Even my own style needs a Valentine’s update, and darling, believe me, the fashion trends of 1923 are truly dazzling! The "Flapper" look is reaching its peak, with flapper dresses flaunting short hems, dropped waists, and sequins galore. And guess what? We’re starting to see ballet fashion influence mainstream trends – you see the ballet slipper silhouette cropping up in both shoes and hats.

The show at the Royal Opera House has just begun. I’m perched in a velvet seat, clutching my special “ballet-fan” programme. And oh my dear, how beautiful it is. The choreography tells the familiar fairy tale with such grace, precision, and passion that it’s as if I’ve been transported into another realm, where enchantment reigns. The costumes, a perfect combination of sumptuousness and femininity, transport us into the fairytale setting, the soft ballet pink, blush-like pastels and delicate floral details enchanting my senses!

Back to my collection... This trip has given me an array of exciting new additions to my vintage collection. For instance, I’ve acquired a delicate "The Sleeping Beauty" programme - it's such a precious reminder of this special night! My backpack is already feeling heavier from the treasures I’m discovering and that’s exactly how I like it.

One last thought: in this time period, there are just so many different styles of dance – ballets, operas, musical comedy performances - and they are all brimming with love, life, and creative passion. In my opinion, they all contribute to this grand tapestry that is ballet. It is an exciting time to be part of a ballet world, and every performance makes me so excited for the next adventure to come.

Now, back to London and this fabulous ballet - a truly fitting way to end my journey. The ending is a real love-filled triumph - oh how I adore seeing a happy ending, don't you?

Until next time, darlings! Keep your tutus twirling!

Yours in Pink and Ballet,

Emma

P.S. If you’re on your way to see a ballet, don’t forget, every outfit deserves a touch of pink, be it a pink feather boa or a pink bow on a stylish flapper dress.

Don’t forget to browse the “Pink Tutu Travels” website for fashion ideas, backstage insights, and even a guide on how to create your very own pink ballet-inspired wardrobe. You can find us at www.pink-tutu.com