Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where ballet history meets a pink-hued passion for all things twirling. Today we're heading back to June 1928, where the world of ballet was alive with innovation, tradition, and an undeniable love of the art form. And trust me, even though this blog is named âPink Tutu Time Travelsâ â this time trip was all about pink! Just wait and see what I found in my vintage loot bag!
Let's hop on the back of Magic Meg, my trusty steed who wouldn't know a dull colour if it bit her! I love how her pink sparkly coat gleams in the sunshine as we race through time. This month, we're landing in Paris, a haven for all things ballet in the 1920s. The buzz is electrifying; the city was abuzz with Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, whose artistry was shaping the landscape of ballet, and leaving its glamorous, bold imprint everywhere they went.
The biggest news of the month was the premiere of Serge Diaghilevâs newest production - "The Prodigal Son", a dramatic and poignant tale about redemption and societal pressures. Now, the setting was nothing short of lavish; a striking backdrop of ancient Greece. I must say, dear readers, the dancers in their elaborate, Grecian-inspired costumes absolutely captivated the audience! I'm picturing it, elegant tutus with layers and layers of tulle, and those dazzling jewel-toned headdresses...simply divine! It reminded me of one of the iconic designs by LĂ©on Bakst, and it had me dreaming of recreating some of these looks in my own Pink Tutu atelier! Imagine, a pink tulle skirt draped with silver accents to reflect the moonlight - ah, the possibilities!
But this isnât just about Paris, of course! Let's shift our gaze to a more familiar location: London, dear London, home of my childhood dreams and so much ballet history! The Royal Opera House was bursting at the seams, as always. This month saw the enchanting return of "Giselle", a ballet so evocative with its delicate costumes, ethereal movements, and tragic tale of love and loss. I could just picture the wispy tutus floating across the stage, like beautiful ballerinas gracefully defying gravity. I actually managed to secure tickets, and believe me, the sheer beauty of the dancing was breathtaking! The graceful movement, the passion... Oh, my, it was so moving.
You see, London was brimming with energy and artistic brilliance at the time, and its streets resonated with the exciting pace of the 20s. While Paris was where the revolutionary Diaghilevâs productions had begun, London was eagerly embracing and refining this new era of ballet. The world was starting to pay attention, and London's ballet community was certainly riding the wave.
Of course, thereâs so much more I could say, but to truly understand what 1928 was like for ballet, youâd need to come back in time! (and youâre very welcome to ride along, dear readers). My saddlebags are overflowing with snippets of ballet history - newspaper clippings, photos of dancers from that era, even some lovely little hand-drawn ballet posters. They remind me of the wonderful fashion that I discovered this time! And yes, I managed to snag a pink silk evening scarf from a small vintage boutique, in that fabulous pastel hue we've come to adore. Canât wait to incorporate it into a new ballet outfit. Imagine it, swirling like the delicate silk around the legs! And speaking of outfits... how absolutely heavenly was the look of the 20s?
Think Art Deco lines, flowing satin dresses, glittering accessories... pure feminine decadence! I managed to score a silk blouse that was so charming! A shimmering pale peach shade with an exquisite lace trim â itâs utterly enchanting. I could almost see it swaying as a dancer spun gracefully, catching the stage lights.
Back to London and Iâm off to an amazing ballet exhibition - âBallet de Paris" which showcased works by various dance companies. A glimpse of a vibrant, fast-evolving dance world was truly a feast for the senses! The exhibition also included fascinating costume designs. I had to snatch up some pieces! A stunning beaded bodice from the "Firebird", the magnificent designs from the Russian Balletâs performances...oh, itâs pure joy for any dance enthusiast! This was the highlight of my time travel - the inspiration just oozing out of those designs!
Letâs end this month's adventure back at the opera house. As the dancers gracefully finished their performance, their pink tutus shimmered beneath the stage lights, the music swelled with emotions, and the applause thundered⊠I knew, that even in this age of dazzling technological advancements, the pure magic of ballet was just as vibrant and alive. The joy it inspires, the stories it weavesâŠthat remains untouched by time! And as I climbed on Magic Meg for my journey back home, the moon painted the night sky in a luminous pink hue - and it felt so perfect, almost as if it were whispering a little âsee you soon!â
And of course, until next month my sweet friends, remember: donât be afraid to dream big, let your heart take you to a world where imagination reigns. Who knows, you might even discover a passion for the vibrant world of ballet â a passion, you see, that even the most daring adventures of Pink Tutu Time Travel can never extinguish!
Love, Emma x
P.S. Check out my latest tutu designs on www.pink-tutu.com . This month I've got some incredible new pieces inspired by my time in the 20s, including a stunning new "Firebird" tutu and a Grecian-inspired flowing ballet dress. All perfectly pink, naturally!
