Hello lovelies! Emma here, back with another journey through the magic of time, courtesy of my wonderful Magic Meg! This month, we’re swirling back to November 11th, 1946, a date that holds some truly fascinating ballet happenings!
Now, don’t forget your pink tutus, darlings! You never know where we’ll be waltzing next, and the more pink tulle we have flowing around the world, the brighter the future looks! 😉
This month, Magic Meg is neighing impatiently. She's ready to transport us back to a world where post-war joy was mingling with a blossoming dance scene, all fuelled by the graceful elegance of ballet.
First, let’s talk about fashion, my absolute favourite topic! This was a time of burgeoning glamour after the wartime austerity. Imagine yourself in a softly draped silk dress, the colours vibrant and bold, with a matching pillbox hat and a chic pair of shoes that peek through the hem of your dress! This look is pure magic, and just what I would have been twirling in back in 1946! I would even be considering adding some pink feathers or a shimmering fabric trim for a little extra pizzazz. 😉
The world of dance was alive with excitement! This time, our first stop is the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, London. The legendary Margot Fonteyn is performing with the Royal Ballet, showcasing the exquisite "Giselle". I simply adore Giselle! It’s so tragically romantic, with moments of passionate and melancholic dancing. I just love how she portrays both love and grief with such expressive movements. Can you imagine seeing a ballet legend like Fonteyn perform?
Imagine the hush in the auditorium as she steps on stage, and the murmurs of applause as the first notes of the score echo through the room. That atmosphere would just be pure magic! Now that's something to make your heart soar!
Speaking of magical moments, let’s head across the pond to the United States! Did you know that 11th November, 1946 marked the official opening night of the newly built Metropolitan Opera House in New York? They were ready to showcase their dance prowess in all its glory! This opening night saw performances by The Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo - how wonderfully exotic! I would imagine they’d be putting on shows brimming with lavish sets, dramatic lighting and the sheer artistry of classic ballet. It would be a dream to see, to experience this dazzling mix of movement, colour, and culture in the heart of New York!
Back in the UK, the world of ballet wasn't just focused on London! Remember how much I love to explore the ballet scenes around the world, darling? Well, the Birmingham Repertory Theatre was also celebrating the power of dance with their very own Ballet Club. I love to see these passionate communities embracing dance! It reminds me that there are dancers in every town and city, ready to express themselves through the beautiful language of movement.
Now, who can resist a touch of French elegance? Paris is always a whirlwind of style, but even more so during 1946 as ballet enjoyed a particularly dynamic moment! It was at this time that Serge Lifar became director of the Paris Opera Ballet, ushering in a new wave of contemporary and modern ballet styles. I can only imagine the discussions amongst the dancers, the excitement of the upcoming season! The passion for innovation was brewing in the French capital, just as it is for my love of all things pink!
My ballet journal is filling up so fast with all these wonderful snippets from history! I must try and get more information on all the ballet styles that were becoming popular at the time - remember my rucksack? It is filling up with vintage ballet shoes, silk ribbons, a worn programme from Covent Garden, and some antique ballet costumes - imagine, the beautiful dance world is giving up so much of its history to me to share with all of you.
Don’t forget, lovelies! If you love the sparkle of ballet history and the dreamy world of pink tutus as much as I do, then remember to follow me at www.pink-tutu.com! Every month, we travel through time, uncovering stories of passion, elegance and beauty from the world of ballet.
This month, we’ll be ending our trip in Derbyshire, England - my home turf! If you find yourself in the Peak District, I’ll be at the local ballet class. Who knows, you might even see me twirling in my signature pink tutu!
Until next time, darlings, remember to always dance with your heart!
Lots of love, Emma xx
*Remember: *This is just a starter. We could build upon this to make a fully fleshed-out post!
