Post Number: 3385
Hello, my darling tutu enthusiasts! Emma here, back from another whirlwind ballet adventure! You won't believe where I've been this time… January 1st, 1943! Oh, what a fascinating journey it was!
As you all know, I adore exploring the past, but my adventures aren't about visiting historical landmarks - my time travel is entirely fuelled by the magical world of ballet! You see, the past is alive with stories, and every January 1st, I can’t resist diving into the history of the dance world.
So, I saddled up my trusty Magic Meg – my shimmering pink Shire horse with hooves that twinkle like a thousand golden stars – and away we went! As usual, my trusty leather rucksack was strapped on, ready for my adventures in the past, and ready to gather stories from the time!
1943 - The World at War
Now, this wasn’t a year to be waltzing through! World War Two cast a long shadow, with bombs falling on Europe and hearts heavy with worry. But even during such challenging times, the power of ballet continued to inspire. You see, ballet has this unique ability to transport us, to offer moments of beauty and escape, even in the midst of turmoil.
I have a deep appreciation for the ballet dancers and artists of that time. They risked their lives to perform, offering hope and joy through dance, and to remind people that even during the darkest times, the spirit of humanity shines bright.
The Show Must Go On!
One of my stops took me to the heart of London, where I stumbled upon a rather special event – the first wartime performance of Giselle! Now, you know I can’t resist a performance! But I was utterly enthralled by this particular one! Despite the challenges, the spirit of the ballet world remained, bringing a moment of peace and elegance to the lives of so many.
This Giselle was staged at Sadler’s Wells, now the famed Sadler’s Wells Theatre. Imagine my delight! Back then, it was the home of the ballet companies, including the famous Sadler’s Wells Ballet, who were still fighting to maintain their art, performing tirelessly despite the hardships. I just adore that dedication to dance.
Fashion - An Inspiration for My Tutu Wardrobe
Naturally, no ballet adventure is complete without a little peek into the fashion world. My oh my – the 1940s was a fascinating era for ballet fashion! We are talking streamlined lines, delicate elegance, and a touch of wartime practicality. You'll find that even the materials were altered slightly because of the wartime rationing, but the grace and sophistication never left the look.
The most elegant trend for ballerinas? The classic tutus were often a soft blush pink, rather than the classic white! How exquisite, and totally in keeping with my own love for this magnificent shade! I actually brought back a beautiful ballet shoe to show you later, it's stunning – I’ll have to share a close-up with you in a future post.
A Ballet Bloggers Dream
I have to say, this trip was truly inspiring! I saw so much dedication to ballet despite the difficulties of the times, a real sense of hope through dance. It's incredible what those artists could do, creating beauty during chaos. They definitely had an unshakable passion for ballet that still resonates to this day!
My trip reminded me of why I time travel through ballet history – to discover the rich heritage of this art form, to learn from those who came before me and to honour their stories.
I'm so grateful to have Magic Meg to whisk me away on these time-travelling adventures, to allow me to meet extraordinary dancers, witness captivating performances, and uncover the hidden beauty and inspiration behind each time period. Every time travel brings a unique sense of magic!
Remember, darling readers, we can all be a part of this magnificent ballet journey. Join me on the dance floor! Let’s create our own unique memories through ballet.
Remember, every tutu-clad adventure makes the world a more graceful, and infinitely pinker, place. And of course, be sure to join me for my next journey to a time period filled with the most spectacular stories and ballets – you know you want to!
See you next month!
Until then, remember - * *it’s always a good day to wear pink!
Emma xx
(www.pink-tutu.com)
