Hello, darlings! It’s Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood time-travelling ballerina, ready to whisk you away on another extraordinary journey through the enchanting history of ballet. This month, we're travelling back to a rather fabulous 5th of May, 1959. So, climb aboard Magic Meg, my pink sparkling shire horse with the golden hooves, and hold on tight – we're off!
Pink Power in the Peak District
Today's journey starts, as always, in my little corner of Derbyshire, England. The crisp Derbyshire air, tinged with the promise of spring, is already calling for a new pink tutu – and not just any pink, mind you. A blushing, shimmering pink, to match the budding blossom on the cherry trees!
Before embarking on our time-travel adventure, I popped into my favourite vintage shop to seek out a few “perfectly-pre-loved” pieces to add to my collection. Today, I’m all about a 1950s charm with a contemporary twist. A vintage pink silk scarf tied around my bun and a dash of ruby red lipstick are the perfect finishing touches.
Magic Meg: My trusty steed!
Magic Meg whinnies softly, ready for the adventure ahead, and we’re off on our way to 1959! With a twinkle in her eyes and a swish of her magnificent tail, she leaps us through time. You see, Magic Meg and I are a team. We travel the world through the tapestry of time, collecting tales and memories of all things ballet. The energy I gain from my ballet performances pays for our travels. Of course, I wear a new pink tutu for every trip. I think pink tutus are such fun - the colour is so feminine!
On The Stage & Across The Globe: A World of Ballet
Now, where are we landing? Why, at the hallowed halls of the Royal Opera House in London, naturally! The ballet season is in full swing, and excitement is in the air. It seems tonight is a grand premiere: "Ondine" by Frederick Ashton. The choreography is a dream come true, a perfect blend of elegance and athleticism, showcasing the artistry of Margot Fonteyn and a young Rudolf Nureyev. It is considered by some critics as the quintessential romantic ballet.
Our whirlwind journey then takes us across the globe. A stop at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow finds us mesmerised by a stunning performance of "The Nutcracker". I've always found this story to be quite charming, but tonight's rendition takes my breath away. There is so much passion and precision in their performance, I felt my heart beat in time with the music.
We next teleport to New York City, where a dazzling Broadway production of "West Side Story" is capturing the hearts of audiences. Though technically not ballet, this contemporary musical features such amazing dance routines! I find myself swaying to the rhythm of the music, lost in the power of its story.
From London To The United States: Dance Fashion Trends!
Fashion is as much a part of ballet as the dance itself. Today, we find that tulle skirts, inspired by the likes of Christian Dior's "New Look" fashion, are the must-have item for any ballerina wanting to emulate the glamorous dance style. The fashion is a mixture of 1950s style femininity with elegance and grace in every piece, perfect for the graceful movements and ballet aesthetic of the era. I do love to indulge in ballet fashion. But of course, nothing beats the beauty of a pink tutu! You will always find me in pink tutus for all of my time travels. It’s just so easy to dance and time travel in.
Speaking of ballet fashion, a recent trend involves ballerina footwear being featured as part of women's clothing in everyday attire. These "ballet flats" are popular, comfy and versatile. You can style them with a floral dress or tailored trousers for a touch of elegance.
*Pink Tutu Power! *
As I write this from my vintage-style bedroom, my new collection of vintage ballet pieces nestles in my leather rucksack, filled with stories that will inspire me for my future time-travels. This era truly embodied a unique era of dance! Don't you think, darling?
Well, this is where I must bid you farewell for now, my dearest reader. But do keep a look out on my website, www.pink-tutu.com, for the next installment of my Ballet Time Travel Blog. And, oh, don't forget - pink tutus make everything better!
Until next time,
Emma xo
