Hello my darling ballet lovers, and welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels!
This month, Magic Meg and I have taken a trip back to December 12th, 1944, right in the middle of the Second World War. Goodness me, what a time that must have been! We all know how much I love a bit of history, and although the war must have been truly dreadful, I can't help but think there's something quite romantic about the wartime era.
Imagine, you're a dancer, working so hard, pushing through hardship, making sacrifices, and all for the love of your craft. It brings a tear to my eye just thinking about it! Now, that's true dedication, don't you think?
This time around, our journey started at my lovely home in Derbyshire, England, just a stone's throw from the Peak District. Magic Meg was looking resplendent, her coat glistening like pink spun sugar. Even her hooves sparkled, catching the winter sunlight as we galloped off on our historical adventure. You wouldn't believe the stories she tells when we're traveling! She must have seen more of the world than I have in all my life!
And on my back, you know, is my trusty rucksack, overflowing with all sorts of lovely trinkets I've collected along the way. I found the most beautiful, vintage, feather-trimmed tutu on my last trip. Can you imagine? Just like something straight out of a film, and guess what? I'm wearing it today. Itās the perfect pink, and with Magic Meg's matching mane, we truly make a show-stopping pair!
I won't lie, the journey back to 1944 was quite an experience! Imagine, bombs exploding, people running for shelter, and the worry etched on their faces. But amidst the hardship, there was an incredible sense of community and unity. People working together, sharing what they had, and finding solace in the simple joys.
Now, imagine stepping into a theater in the midst of it all, to escape the worries and anxieties. In this particular time period, the stage remained a sanctuary, a haven where people could be transported to another world, a world filled with beauty, elegance, and the pure magic of ballet. Iām quite sure that even during times of hardship, the love for dance persisted.
And I have to share with you, my lovelies, that I discovered the most fascinating ballet information while on my trip! It seems that, in December 1944, London was still bustling with ballet life, even in wartime! You see, in the heart of London, there was a place called the Sadler's Wells Theatre. And in that theatre, ballet kept thriving. There were some amazing dancers performing, even amidst the hardships. Just picture them, you know, pirouettes in the midst of bombings and air raids, it really is the epitome of resilience.
They weren't all glamorous ballerinas either. In December 1944, dancers faced hardship. Imagine the grit and determination it must have taken, to keep performing under these difficult conditions. They truly deserve our admiration, our gratitude, and a heartfelt round of applause for keeping the art of ballet alive.
On my visit, I also discovered this fascinating historical tidbit! There was this very brave ballet dancer, named Moira Shearer, who even danced on tour with the Ballet Rambert company while everything was so difficult around them! That must have been such an inspiration, especially for those still staying at home during the war! They could get swept up in a fantasy world for a little while, right?
And let's not forget the audiences who braved it all to watch! They went to the theatre, filled their lives with culture, art, and beauty.
You know what they say, "Art endures."
The Sadlerās Wells Theatre had their grand re-opening just a month prior, having sustained damage due to bombing raids. They hosted a grand fundraising event for the āBombed Balletā initiative in 1941, to restore the theatre after suffering major destruction. But even amidst the bombing raids, they persevered.
The world of ballet thrived through the war. Ballet, it truly seems, is about more than just a twirl. It's about dedication, resilience, passion, community. And guess what, you can experience a little bit of this history right now in your own lives.
Think of your own favourite ballet classes, or even going to the theatre and catching a breathtaking ballet performance. Thereās something special about ballet that transcends time. Itās the pure magic of movement and expression, which you know, is quite fitting, considering I time-travelled by a sparkling horse called Magic Meg, a truly wonderful pony if ever I did see one!
As for the future, Iām excited about seeing what next month holds! Weāve already mapped out our next trip ā I canāt give away any hints but let's just say the fashion in our chosen destination is pretty exciting! Until then, do be sure to check out www.pink-tutu.com for your weekly dose of ballet news and stories, and do send your own ballet thoughts and stories to
As always, stay pink and graceful!
With a flourish, Emma
