Hello my darling tutu twirlers! It's Emma, back from another delightful jaunt through the annals of ballet history. This month, we're taking a leap back to September 1954. Now, if you think you've seen pink in abundance, well darling, let me tell you, you've just got to see what awaits you in the fashion scene of this period. Think ballgowns shimmering with pale pink satin and chiffon, adorned with exquisite floral lace and the softest blush hues imaginable. It's enough to make you swoon, I tell you!
And my oh my, my chariot for this journey? The one and only, Magic Meg, the sparkling pink Shire horse with her glorious golden hooves and white mane flowing in the wind. You see, my dearest friends, I wouldn't have it any other way - how can you travel through time with a passion for ballet and not have the most glorious pink horse as your companion? She carries my leather rucksack filled with treasures from every era - beautiful ballet shoes, old programmes, even sketches of ballerinas, each telling a story, each whispering tales of grace and artistry.
Now, you know I couldn't possibly begin this adventure without mentioning a brand new, fabulous pink tutu. Yes, I got myself the most enchanting one, adorned with sequins that sparkle like a thousand stars. The perfect companion for a trip to the Royal Opera House in London, where something truly extraordinary awaited us - The Sadler's Wells Ballet, the company that would eventually be renamed The Royal Ballet.
September 1954 brought the London stage a glorious programme! " Giselle, " " Cinderella, " and " The Sleeping Beauty, " – Oh, the sheer enchantment! I danced the night away in the heart of the auditorium, feeling like I was in a dream. And speaking of dreams, let me tell you, the costumes of this period were breathtaking! Fluffy tutus with exquisite detailing, shimmering leotards, and elegant pointe shoes all made for a visual spectacle I could scarcely imagine. It was like being swept away by a symphony of movement, colour and emotion.
While the stage was buzzing with artistry, Paris was experiencing its own wave of ballet magic. The Paris Opera Ballet was in full swing, presenting breathtaking performances that left the city captivated. It seems ballet was sweeping the globe in a kaleidoscope of emotions, and I couldn't resist visiting, naturally.
And for a fashion enthusiast like me, there was something else to see, something beyond just the breathtaking artistry - the ballerinas' off-stage fashion! Let's just say, darling, these ladies knew how to make a statement! Think pastel-coloured day dresses, elegantly draped skirts, and the chicest hats adorning their heads. They wore their pink in cardigans, gloves, and accessories, carrying handbags that could double as miniature ballet suitcases.
Oh, the places we went in that magical September of 1954! From the majestic Royal Opera House in London, we travelled to the vibrant city of Paris and the breathtaking scenery of Italy, where we stumbled upon another dazzling ballet performance. Rome was filled with an incredible spirit, celebrating the artistry of Natalia Makarova and the grace of Tamara Toumanova, legendary names whose steps continue to resonate in my own journey through time. And just when I thought the month couldn't get any better, we found ourselves waltzing around Vienna, enjoying the vibrant scene of ballet that Vienna is so famous for.
The joy of these times truly lies in the fact that, for so many people, the dance was just beginning to bloom on the world stage. You see, this is why I love time travel. It reminds me of the sheer passion and beauty that brought ballet to the world - the love for the art, the passion for the story, the incredible desire to move and express.
And while you’re getting swept away by the magical world of September 1954, remember my mission – the goal of seeing the whole world twirling in pink tutus! My dear readers, are you ready to join me on this journey? Spread the pink tutu love! I'm sure there’s one just waiting to be found in your wardrobe!
Until next month, my darlings, stay stylish and remember to twirl!
Emma, the pink tutu-loving time traveller
P.S. You can see photos and sketches from this incredible journey on my website - www.pink-tutu.com – just remember to look out for the dazzling pink Shire horse! And let me know in the comments below – which famous ballerina is your favourite from the year 1954!
Remember, darling, life is a beautiful ballet, and everyone deserves to twirl in a pink tutu!
