Hello my lovely ballet-loving darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu, where we explore the enchanting world of ballet throughout time! This month, we're waltzing back to the vibrant 1950s, a time of post-war exuberance and burgeoning fashion trends, especially in the world of dance. Buckle up, darling, as we take a delightful pink-tutu-filled journey together!
Now, you know how much I adore my magical steed, Meg. Well, Meg and I are whizzing back to the 5th of May, 1958. Picture this, darling: the crisp spring air is tickling my nose, the sun is a warm kiss upon my cheeks, and London is bustling with a joyous, optimistic energy.
We trot through the bustling streets, me and Meg, heads turning as they take in my fabulous pink tutu! It's a perfect match for the London's bright pink bus stops, and even a sweet shop on the corner is selling pink-striped candy floss. It truly is the colour of happiness, don't you agree?
Speaking of pink delights, darling, we are going to see a most exciting performance today. The Royal Ballet at the Covent Garden Theatre is presenting none other than "The Sleeping Beauty"! Now, who doesn't love the beautiful, enchanting tale of Princess Aurora? I simply adore the iconic choreography, those grand sweeping movements, and of course, the captivating story! I'm also hoping for a glimpse of the wonderful Margot Fonteyn in the role of Aurora – she's a true icon, and I have a special spot in my rucksack reserved for her autograph!
I bet you are already wondering what the ballet world looked like back then, right? Well, this was the golden era of classical ballet in Britain. We've had wonderful ballerinas like Margot Fonteyn and Moira Shearer, and iconic male dancers such as Michael Somes. These ballet legends really shaped the British ballet scene, pushing creative boundaries and bringing the elegance and artistry to the stage in a captivating way. It's exciting to be living in such a vibrant time for the art of ballet.
Speaking of vibrant, the 1950s were a whirlwind of fashion, particularly for ballet dancers! My handbag is overflowing with sketches I've taken of the gorgeous outfits: from graceful tutus to graceful pointe shoes with intricate ribbons. I particularly love the simple yet elegant, form-fitting ballet dresses of this era. They just perfectly embrace the graceful, yet powerful movement of ballet. Of course, pink is a prevalent colour in those designs - a delightful pink in everything from velvet ballet slippers to stunning tulle tutus! Oh, to live in a time when even the mundane had a touch of elegance.
And the theatre itself! Imagine, darling, the anticipation, the gasp of the audience as the curtain rises! The atmosphere would have been absolutely electrifying, a mix of refined elegance and buzzing energy. I bet the scent of freshly polished wooden floors mixed with the perfume of the audience and a gentle breeze carrying in the fragrance of Spring…Oh my, just the thought of it all is intoxicating!
Oh! Before I forget, Meg and I are off for a spot of afternoon tea at a lovely tearoom I found near the Royal Opera House. We're enjoying some dainty sandwiches, delicate cakes, and of course, a delightful pot of tea with a drop of pink lemonade. It is absolutely lovely, and I will tell you all about it in the next post!
So darling, make sure you join me on the 5th of May, 1958. Just imagine the wonders of ballet waiting for you – perhaps you'll see me there in my lovely pink tutu, admiring the magic unfolding before our eyes!
Until next month, darlings, let your own ballet dreams blossom and embrace the vibrant world of pink!
Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
