Hello lovelies! Welcome back to my monthly time travel blog. I'm Emma, your trusty pink tutu-wearing guide through the wonderful world of ballet history. This month, we're trotting back to June 6th, 1940 - and believe me, it's a date that will stay in the minds of all ballet aficionados!
As always, I've got my faithful steed, Magic Meg, by my side - she's looking particularly resplendent in her pink and sparkly halter, her golden hooves gleaming like a sunbeam. With my trusty leather rucksack slung across my shoulders, ready to collect ballet stories from the era, we're off on our latest adventure.
Let's chat fashion, shall we? I'm so excited about the ballet looks this year. From sleek, satin-covered leotards in daring shades of scarlet and emerald to beautifully crafted tutus that shimmer like moonlight on water - it's all about the dance of beauty and artistry, darlings.
Speaking of beauty, today, the world was abuzz with the excitement of Margot Fonteyn. You see, the world famous ballerina, she's truly an inspiration, performed as Aurora in "The Sleeping Beauty" at the Royal Opera House in London. Her artistry is just dazzling! Honestly, my tutu was nearly spun off my body from the excitement. She is quite simply the most fabulous, the most elegant, and the most graceful dancer I've seen on stage yet.
It was truly a memorable performance, a delightful spectacle of intricate steps, captivating beauty, and sheer elegance, It is so much more than just a ballet, its pure theatre and magical storytelling. I think it was probably one of her best performances yet.
On this date, however, things were a little less fabulous and elegant in the United States - The Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo staged a ballet performance that seemed to have stirred controversy. It was "Nightingale" and “Prince Igor.” I’m guessing they weren’t as good as the Royal Ballet, just from reading the headlines, but who knows! It was met with some criticism. Some folks called it "uninspired." Ouch, a little harsh if you ask me. There is always going to be differences of opinion about what is the perfect show. My rule is, go with what feels right, enjoy it!
We've also got news from across the pond! You know how I adore all things theatrical and historical, right? In England, it was time for The Vic-Wells Ballet to get back into rehearsals for a rather ambitious "Romeo and Juliet." There was definitely excitement around this production in London, which is what brought us to London on our pink tutu adventure. The excitement here is really contagious. I felt a spark in the air of this vibrant artistic movement and the talent that was in this company. Now if only they had taken to wearing tutus - I just know these lovely young ladies would have rocked them! A lovely ballerina's dream! But then again, who knows maybe I am ahead of my time! They probably didn't even think of wearing tutus, they looked just as fantastic in their traditional costumes too. It was great to experience ballet's energy and joy, and just see how far this form of expression is taken. The magic and love of dance knows no boundaries, even amidst the unsettling political climate, and there's no question that, in the midst of world turmoil, the spirit of ballet was undeniably alive.
Talking about boundaries, let's look at what we can learn from 1940's ballet scene. I've spent countless hours browsing old magazines and newspapers to discover just how captivating the world of ballet was back then. It’s been an eye opener. You see, while ballet had evolved significantly, it still held some very strict standards – we’re talking strict adherence to classic techniques and a rigid view of ballet traditions. The dance was a beautiful reflection of society – sometimes embracing traditional gender roles. We've all seen these old shows and pictures, and we are now fortunate enough to have more flexibility and the freedom to express our art freely, in our own ways, as we’ve all moved on and made dance more expressive and diverse.
One thing that stood out, though, is how passionately dancers embraced their art. Back then, just like today, it took an immense dedication to train your body to move gracefully, strength, a dedication to practicing and lots of discipline. And while they faced tough competition to get to the stage, their love for ballet kept their spirits high. You could really feel that they poured their hearts into the artform, into every graceful step and every expressive gesture. It is so moving!
For me, though, I see 1940’s as a powerful reminder to embrace every element of ballet with passion – be it a dramatic ballet performance at the London Opera House or a rehearsal for The Vic-Wells Ballet in a less opulent hall. That dedication and that passion is something we need to hold close as we progress.
I have to tell you, that even though it's the early 1940s, we were treated to some breathtaking ballet designs by some iconic designers. These are some of my most favourite and most important inspirations.
As we move to the end of our journey through this very special day, my lovely tutus - it's time to step out of our pink world, but don't let the excitement of today’s post fade. Take inspiration from 1940’s ballerinas who fought for their passion amidst great challenges.
I encourage you to head to your nearest theatre or dance studio for a magical ballet performance or class. Or maybe just head over to your favourite local library to learn more about the wonderful world of 1940’s ballet! That’s my recommendation this month, my dears!
Until we journey together again next month - Remember, darling, wear your tutus with pride! And embrace every pirouette!
