Hello, darlings! It's Emma, your favourite pink tutu-wearing, time-travelling ballerina, and it's time for another adventure! Buckle up, because today, we're jetting back to the glorious 10th of October, 1957!
You know I love a bit of history, and especially ballet history. And what a fabulous time this was! It’s October, and the air is crisp, with a touch of autumn in the air. Leaves are starting to change, and a feeling of warmth settles around the world. Today we're in the vibrant heart of London, where the ballet scene was bubbling over with excitement.
Remember Magic Meg, my gorgeous pink, shimmering Shire horse with the golden hooves and flowing white mane and tail? She's absolutely pawing to get going. I love how, even when time travelling, you can feel the change in the air - the scent of burning leaves and damp earth. Magic Meg is impatient, so I better grab my trusty leather rucksack, because I've got some seriously wonderful ballet-related items I need to pack from this era!
This is a special date in ballet history - the Royal Ballet is performing ‘Swan Lake’ in London, but this isn’t just any Swan Lake! This one is bursting with dazzling debuts. We have the lovely, charming Svetlana Beriosova, dancing the role of Odette/Odile for the very first time. It was considered an outstanding performance – a real treat for all those who saw it. You know I just adore watching a new, young dancer come onto the scene and give such a stellar performance.
So, naturally, I had to visit the Royal Opera House for the show. It's like stepping into a world of exquisite elegance. And the fashion! Just stunning, from the ladies' graceful evening gowns to the gentlemen in their dinner jackets. Even the ladies' gloves were beautiful – think shimmering satin or finely stitched leather – simply exquisite. And me? Well, I chose to rock my dazzling, fuchsia-pink tutu. I simply love the impact it has when I walk into a room - you can tell they all whisper, "Who is that gorgeous girl in pink?!"
But that’s not all! Across the pond, in America, a brilliant new choreographer is causing a stir. The inimitable Jerome Robbins, with his iconic musical theatre background, brings us ‘The Age of Anxiety’, an utterly contemporary, daring ballet! My oh my, those ballet shoes have been kicking up quite a storm, with its powerful, complex movements, showcasing the artistry of ballet to the world.
After such a phenomenal evening, it was off to Covent Garden Market the following morning! Imagine the delicious smells – the aroma of freshly baked pastries, blooming flowers, and, of course, the excitement of all the lovely new ballets shoes for sale! There were the sleek, beautiful Pointe Shoes - all ready to be adorned by those nimble feet. Then of course the other kind, the leather and canvas shoes that fit like a glove. Oh! And did I mention all the adorable pink ballet ribbons I discovered? You can bet I’ve added them to my ballet collection back in Derbyshire!
Of course, the evening was for shopping! The glamour! There's something magical about a department store in the evening - all those gleaming shop windows and the delicious aroma of perfume! Just picture the iconic dresses - sleek, form-fitting, and wonderfully tailored.
I do love to immerse myself in a bit of shopping after a great ballet show, you know! There is just so much inspiration in this time for a young ballerina like me! But before heading back to Derbyshire, there's one more thing on the agenda – a visit to a small tea shop tucked away down a quiet cobblestone street. Just a quick bite before heading home, surrounded by the bustle of afternoon tea. It was delicious!
I truly love these historical trips! 1957, full of incredible talent, captivating shows, and such incredible style. I’ll definitely be making sure I have an opportunity to go back! What an exciting world to immerse yourself in!
And before you leave, darlings, remember: life is like a ballet - it's all about the performance. So, make it an exceptional one. Embrace your own unique style, go for the dramatic pink, and spread a little joy wherever you go. Because, ultimately, life is for living in the pink!
Stay fabulous!
Until next month,
Emma xx www.pink-tutu.com
