Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where we take a twirl through the history of ballet with a sprinkle of pink magic. This month, we're whisking ourselves back to the 12th of December, 1942. Hold onto your tutus, darlings, because it’s a rather special journey we're about to take!
My trusty steed, Magic Meg, snorted with excitement as we galloped across the snowy English countryside. Her golden hooves sparkled like a thousand stars in the fading winter sunlight, and her white mane and tail billowed like a cloud of feathers in the wind. We were headed to London, a whirlwind of energy and wartime grit, where the ballet world was holding its breath, but also buzzing with the spirit of resilience.
Now, you might think that with all the chaos of war, ballet would be on the backburner, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Even in the darkest times, the art of dance was a beacon of hope. It was a way to escape the harsh reality of life and find solace in the beauty of movement and music.
On this very day, in 1942, the Sadler’s Wells Ballet company, the name for the Royal Ballet company of today, were gearing up for their next show in London. You see, despite the hardships and bombings, ballet never stopped. In fact, the war years actually encouraged even more people to experience the magic of dance, using it as an escape from their harsh realities. They weren't just keeping ballet alive; they were actively showcasing its importance during this turbulent period.
Now, for all you fashionistas out there, you'll be delighted to hear that the fashion scene was anything but muted! Despite wartime rationing, women in Britain still managed to maintain an element of flair and femininity, a fact that certainly reflected in the world of ballet. Ballet shoes were carefully stitched from rationed materials, while costumes were a blend of bold colors and classic lines. Ballet, even in a time of austerity, offered a burst of vibrant creativity.
I have to tell you, darling, I spent the evening nestled into a beautiful plush seat at the Sadler’s Wells theatre, the sound of the orchestra's warm notes mingling with the rustle of programmes. The stage, lit with a gentle, amber light, revealed the delicate grace and captivating movements of the dancers. They danced as if their very souls were filled with the spirit of hope, a feeling that filled the entire theatre. The air was electric with emotion and sheer artistry!
Later, after the curtain call, I had a delicious, if somewhat meagre, cup of tea backstage with the delightful ballerina, Margot Fonteyn. You could tell, she was the epitome of poise and elegance, even in this time of turmoil. She shared tales of performing under heavy air raid sirens and dancing for wounded soldiers. Such bravery! Such a spirit! This evening in 1942 had made such an impression on me, the dedication and artistry despite hardship filled my heart.
As I left the theatre and hopped onto Magic Meg, I took a last glance at the twinkling lights of London. The city felt different, more purposeful, as if even the streetlights were joining in a silent dance, illuminating a path for resilience and beauty in a world steeped in shadows.
But what about my precious leather rucksack? Well, darling, you'd be surprised at what treasures I unearthed this time. I found a programme from the 12th of December, 1942, signed by Margot Fonteyn herself. Inside I found a miniature ballet shoe that a young dancer had tucked into the programme and a drawing by a war-time child that depicted the beauty of the ballet. You just can't beat history when it comes to collecting such special little treasures, can you?
Don't forget, darling, my lovely pink tutus can travel through time, bringing history to life, but even more than that, they’re a symbol of femininity, grace, and optimism – something the world could always use more of, don’t you think? So, if you haven't already, go put on your pink tutu, give yourself a little twirl, and feel the power of pink!
Until next time, stay sparkly, stay beautiful, and keep dancing!
Love,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
