Hello, darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, Pink Tutu Time Travels! October the 10th, 1958 - just imagine it - the crisp autumn air, the vibrant colours of the turning leaves, and the anticipation of a new season for ballet! This month, my dear Meg and I are galloping through the time portal to a very exciting moment in ballet history, a time filled with dazzling dance performances and inspiring fashion. Grab your teacups, darlings, because we're about to dive into the most wonderful time travel adventure yet!
As I adjusted my ever-so-pink, exquisitely feathered tutu, Magic Meg - you simply must see her, darlings, all sparkling pink with golden hooves and a mane and tail like a fluffy cloud - nudged me gently with her magnificent head, urging me onto her back. We're on a journey to see some of the most fabulous performances, from London to Paris and everywhere in between, because remember, lovelies, there's always something delightful happening in the world of ballet!
Our journey started with a bit of pre-time travel shopping. Now, you all know how much I adore a good frock, don't you? My personal style, naturally, involves a generous dose of pink, with a dash of tulle and an air of feminine sophistication. I found myself browsing through some of the most delightful 1958 designs - full skirts, beautiful brocades, and a hint of retro glamour that made my heart flutter.
On to London! My goodness, what a whirlwind of excitement it was! I popped into the Royal Opera House - it's one of my absolute favourites, as you know - just in time for the opening night of The Sleeping Beauty. Oh, my darlings, you should have seen it! The costumes, a feast for the eyes, and the choreography, an enchanting story spun through dance - it was absolute magic. Did you know, my darlings, that The Sleeping Beauty premiered in 1890? That's nearly 70 years before my journey to this wondrous performance! And if I was transported by the performance itself, the final act left me speechless with delight. It is considered a cornerstone of the classic repertoire and the most famous ballerina of all, Margot Fonteyn, graced the stage with grace and precision - simply mesmerizing!
I felt a need to treat myself to a bit of 1958's ballet fashion! I am simply smitten with the femininity of it all - gorgeous ballroom gowns and flitting tutus that shimmer with delicate charm. I think I need a special display for these little treasures back in my Derbyshire home!
From London to Paris - oh, la la, a time for another ballet spectacle. The Palais Garnier - an iconic building that is steeped in ballet history! - was alive with anticipation for the evening’s performance. It’s such a treat to see ballet dancing within the walls that housed its very beginnings. Did you know, my darlings, that Paris in 1958 played host to the World's Fair, which involved a performance by legendary French ballerina, Yvonne Georgi. A ballerina like no other!
But my time-travel adventures in 1958 are not all about major events and big productions, darlings. I've been watching with fascination as the ballet world is embracing exciting developments, such as a shift in focus to new forms of dance that blur the boundaries between classical and contemporary. Oh, to think, ballet is always evolving!
It was a delightful stroll down the Champs-Élysées, darling, where I discovered the most fantastic vintage boutique. Just picture it - delicate silks and satins spilling onto a plush carpet - a veritable dream for any fashionista - especially one as passionate as me! I had to have a pair of exquisite, ruby red ballet pumps - the perfect finishing touch for my 1958 outfit.
With my shopping spree finished and my tutu twirling just so, Meg and I were ready for the journey home. Back in my Derbyshire cottage, my rucksack overflowing with ballet souvenirs and tales, I reflect on this incredible time travel adventure.
The world of ballet in 1958 is a whirlwind of beautiful dancing, exciting trends and breathtaking creativity! To see it all, and to have a part in it with my own Pink Tutu fashion moments - well, darling, it truly was a dream come true!
Next month, I'm taking you to another amazing time period. I just can’t wait! Remember to check my website - www.pink-tutu.com - and join me on social media. I can’t wait to hear from you all about your own ballet dreams and adventures!
Until next time, darlings! Stay fabulous!
Love and twirls, Emma x
