Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travels, where I take you on a fabulous journey through the history of ballet!
This month, my trusty steed, Magic Meg - my stunning pink shimmering Shire horse with those divine golden hooves and snow-white mane and tail - has whisked us to the 10th of October, 1941. It was a bit chilly, even for my cosy pink cashmere cape, but nothing a good cuppa and a spot of ballet couldn't fix.
Now, if you were wondering about the state of the ballet world in 1941 - it was, shall we say, a bit complicated. The war had begun, and that impacted everyone, including dancers. However, despite the uncertainty and hardships, the world of ballet was bursting with life.
Imagine this: Imagine a ballet studio bustling with life, the gentle clink of pointe shoes on the wooden floor as dancers practiced, their bodies moving with such grace and passion. Yes, it wasn't a life without challenges, but those dancers, their dedication, their resilience, were truly inspiring. They continued to share their art with the world, even when times were tough.
You see, darling, the ballet was a symbol of hope. Even amidst the shadows of war, its delicate beauty, its ability to uplift the human spirit, still shone brightly.
Now, while we are on the subject of resilience and beauty, I simply have to tell you about the exquisite performance I saw on the 10th of October, 1941. The Royal Ballet, then known as the Sadler’s Wells Ballet, had been performing The Sleeping Beauty at the New Theatre, Oxford. Just imagine, a beautiful ballet performance in a beautiful theatre. It was pure magic!
Oh darling, it was absolutely breathtaking. Imagine ballerinas gracefully waltzing on stage, the stage lights casting beautiful shadows, their costumes sparkling with an ethereal charm.
Just thinking about it fills me with glee!
But it's not all about performances. In my satchel - it's a divine vintage leather one I picked up at a flea market in the time I travelled to 1857, I always add pieces of history to my blog. This month, it's this charming vintage tutu from the Sadler’s Wells Ballet. The silk fabric feels incredibly delicate to touch, a creamy pale peach with a hint of rose - just imagine wearing something like this! Sadly, no chance of me slipping into this one. I will take this gorgeous find to my wonderful Derbyshire atelier to be framed and added to the pink-tutu.com collection.
I did pick up a rather exquisite vintage book from a bookshop in 1941 too. The 'Dancing Times' Magazine was filled with inspiring articles about ballerinas of the day, new ballets and dance trends, the world of ballet truly is timeless!
Let's chat about fashion, because honestly, a little bit of colour and glitter can make all the difference. In 1941, you could find all manner of chic styles from long dresses to skirt and blouse combinations and even more sophisticated trouser suits for the women. It was the era of elegance, darling! And remember, a little bit of pink goes a long way, adding a dash of joy and vibrancy to even the most simple outfit!
So, I am urging you all, add a bit of pink to your lives, darling! A pink scarf, a pink necklace, or of course, the most magnificent thing ever... a PINK TUTU!
You know you want to, darling! 😉
And while you're at it, take a leap of faith. Attend a ballet performance. I promise, it'll be an experience you won't forget!
That’s all from me for this month, darlings. Don’t forget to join me on pink-tutu.com next month, for another exciting time-travel adventure!
Until then, stay fabulous and spread the love for ballet and, of course, pink tutus!
Love, Emma
P.S. Did I mention I picked up some truly fabulous vintage pointe shoes in the ballet shop in 1941! Can you believe it? I love antique things, particularly from my favourite eras! Maybe a little ballerina fashion inspiration will grace this very blog next month. Until then, think pink, think ballet and think tutu, darling.
