Hello my lovely tutu-loving darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels, your monthly dose of all things ballet and time travel. September has arrived, and the air is already crisp with the promise of autumn, just like the swishy layers of my brand new pink tulle skirt. Today, my sweet darlings, we’re stepping back to 1942, a year unlike any other. War cast a long shadow, yet even in the midst of darkness, the magic of ballet persevered.
But before we go, don't forget to grab a cuppa and a slice of cake, and settle in for a delightful journey. Just a heads-up: while my travels might be magical, the events of 1942 are not always sunshine and roses. It’s a poignant reminder that even during times of great hardship, beauty, grace, and the power of dance still shine through.
Giddy-Up Magic Meg!
The sun is setting over Derbyshire, painting the sky in shades of blush pink that match my outfit perfectly. Today, the journey with Magic Meg takes us straight to…well, just before 1942, because she is quite the spirited, though admittedly rather large, lady, so sometimes she gets ahead of herself. But no matter, a few twirls with my magic tutu usually get us to the right time, and anyway, a little detour is always a welcome adventure!
As the horseshoes clack softly on the cobbles of the Victorian street, I imagine how those who lived in the 1940s must have felt, living in the shadow of war, with every day bringing the fear of air raids and rationing. I try to understand how those brave souls kept hope alive, how they managed to dance their way through those dark times.
September’s Dance Calendar in 1942
The London stage was alive with entertainment, and despite the war, ballets still shone brightly. Sadly, most venues in Europe, except for some like Moscow, had closed. But what we did see in London is something extraordinary: the rise of ballet as an entertainment, alongside theatre performances.
The Sadler's Wells Ballet (now English National Ballet) was already well established, performing their beloved classic works, like Swan Lake, in venues like Sadler’s Wells. Ballet, in London, was booming and enjoyed popularity from all levels of society, despite the hardships the world was facing. The company, full of resilient and incredibly talented dancers, was becoming quite the beacon of light during wartime. Their stories, of their hardship, strength, and continued dedication, should be heard by everyone.
Ballet became a national event, especially in Russia, where it was still allowed to flourish, in large part due to the love and dedication of Sergei Diaghilev and the extraordinary Ballets Russes which he brought to London from 1911 to 1914, just before the outbreak of WWI.
Dancing on with Determination
These ballet dancers weren't simply following their passion, they were serving their nation! They were sharing their talent and artistry to give audiences an escape, a reminder that life continued. You can bet your bottom tutu that even in the bleakest of times, these extraordinary individuals found a way to dance on, filling hearts with beauty and hope, even through times of uncertainty.
As we explore the vibrant 1940s dance scene, we see a beautiful mix of classical elegance and emerging modernism. Choreographers are taking creative leaps, incorporating wartime themes and emotions into their ballets, reminding us of the versatility of dance to reflect the human experience.
Vintage Fashion Finds: From Tutu to Bombshells
And my loves, what a year for ballet fashion! We’re talking glamorous looks, with war time silhouettes of the era - bold yet restrained, elegant, yet incredibly practical, reflecting the mood of the nation and emphasizing femininity during those times of wartime uncertainty.
The silhouette is still focused on the female waist, showcasing the female figure, a subtle nod to the era’s social pressures and a reminder of resilience and femininity.
The costumes, often made of fabrics available due to the war, took on a practicality with simpler, more streamlined silhouettes. These designers didn’t shy away from using existing resources creatively, producing something not only beautiful but also symbolic, while adding elements of practicality. The colour of the era is often defined by a restrained palette of classic tones of deep rich colours – navy, charcoal and dark plum, highlighting both the power and poise of female dancers, showcasing a beautiful blend of style and strength, and reflecting the spirit of resilience of the wartime period.
A Souvenir for my Ballet History Trunk
As Magic Meg gallops towards the present, my heart overflows with admiration for the resilience of the dancers and the magic of ballet. The rucksack on my back now houses a vintage 1942 playbill from the London ballet production, and I can’t help but feel inspired. The war may have brought challenges, but these dancers danced their way through them, a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of the human heart.
Remember, my darlings, that you too have the power to change the world, just like those brave ballet dancers of the 1940s. Let your own passion shine through, embrace your inner ballerina, and, most importantly, never stop dancing.
Stay tuned, my lovely dancers, and join me for another magical trip next month! Until then, keep twirling and dreaming!
With Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
