Hello my dearest readers! Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, time-travelling ballerina blogger, and welcome to another exciting adventure through the magical world of ballet history!
This month, my trusty steed, the fabulous, pink-sparkling Shire horse, Magic Meg, and I, are whisking you back to the 1st of January 1933. Just imagine the bustle! New Year resolutions, a touch of the roaring 20s lingering in the air, and, of course, the shimmering world of ballet.
Today, Iāve slung my trusty leather rucksack onto Magic Meg's back. This time, itās brimming with vintage ballet programmes, sketches of elegant costumes, and some notes on a rather daring dance by a Russian ballerina I am eager to learn more about.
So, let's twirl back to the first of January 1933, and letās see what the ballet world had to offer!
The Worldās Ballet Spotlight
Firstly, a trip to Londonās Coliseum, a grand old theatre. You simply canāt get a grander setting for a show. I imagine a plush velvet curtain rising on a world of music and swirling tutus, a dazzling, enchanting spectacle. This evening, the audience is enthralled by "The Nutcracker," Tchaikovsky's enchanting tale. A sweet Christmas treat indeed.
On a less theatrical, but still thrilling note, I also read about a wonderful performance from the famous Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow. Just imagining the energy of those brilliant dancers in such a historical theatre brings goosebumps.
A peek at New York reveals that a new star, the vivacious young dancer Doris Humphrey, has captured the hearts of Manhattanās dance fans. Imagine the thrill of her new dance style, so captivatingly contemporary. I hope, perhaps on a future adventure, I can witness one of her ground-breaking performances myself.
The Evolution of Style
Looking at photos from this time, Iām blown away by the costumes. I spot beautiful, shimmering tulle skirts. Such elegance! Such romance! But it's not all delicate grace and flowing ribbons. 1933, with its echoes of the 1920s, saw a bold exploration of design.
Some of the styles we see today - from those elegant and long evening dresses with a subtle touch of embellishment, to those bolder outfits featuring sequins and fringe-laden skirts - all started their story right back here, in the glamorous 1930s! As Iāve been experimenting with some more contemporary balletwear these days myself, seeing this influence is truly inspiring.
A Touch of Romance
You cannot speak about the early 20th century without thinking about the eraās infamous āflapperā look. With its shorter skirts, looser fitting fabrics, and daring fashion choices, the "flapper" girl transformed women's fashion at this time. There is a real sense of liberation in her dress, an urge to throw off the expectations of society and be bold!
Naturally, this bold attitude spilled over into ballet, too. Whilst some ballerinas favoured the flowing styles and delicate tulle of the traditional past, there were a few brave trailblazers who wanted to express their strength through a new kind of movement.
This movement - a combination of classical ballet with the added flavour of modern dance - was something quite special!
I even saw a newspaper article with a picture of a daring young ballerina called Anna Pavlova. Sheās wearing a remarkably modern skirt that reveals more of her leg than youād normally see in a classic ballet performance. And the way sheās dancing ā so powerful yet delicate!
I can almost hear the excited chatter of the audiences, their admiration pouring out across the packed theaters. There is no question ā ballet was an incredible art form then as it is now, with an almost magical quality, bringing laughter, joy, and drama into our lives.
Embracing Pink Tutu Inspiration
Today, as I'm writing my blog, sitting in my pink tutu, I'm thinking of the ways I can use the lessons of the past in my ballet career.
You know, this period has so much to teach us about self-expression. It wasnāt always about following rigid rules ā but about interpreting them and making them your own!
I see the same boldness today ā dancers, just like those early flapper ballerinas, are embrace their own individual styles and move in a way that expresses their truths.
Perhaps itās time to bring back those 1930s influences to our dance wardrobe, and channel the bold expression of those pioneering dancers. Maybe that little extra bit of fringe on our ballet skirt - just like the flappers wore, - or perhaps that dramatic slash in the fabric, creating the movement and flow they did!
For those of you at home, perhaps a little touch of vintage-inspired fashion in your own life - whether thatās a sparkly sequined top or a long, shimmering evening dress. These classic designs, re-imagined for the 21st century, still offer so much charm!
Looking Forward
The 1930s - what a wonderful place to visit, filled with elegance and adventure. This adventure in 1933 has inspired me to look deeper at my ballet choices - and perhaps consider a few more creative, individual design details, with a vintage twist!
Before I jump on Magic Meg's back, and we gallop off on another journey through history, I want to thank you for coming with me on this beautiful and inspirational ride to the world of 1933.
What do you love about ballet history? What was the most fascinating detail from this post?
Please share your thoughts and comments on the Pink Tutu website www.pink-tutu.com, and let your ballet spirit shine!
Until our next historical journey!
Emma xx
