Hello dears,
It’s Emma here, back with another enchanting escapade through the world of ballet! January has always been a month for fresh starts, and what better way to kick off the year than with a delightful time-travel adventure, right? I've whisked Magic Meg, my magnificent pink-sparkling Shire horse with golden hooves, back to 1st January, 1962! Oh, the things we've seen...the stories we've collected…and the tutus!
As you know, I adore tutus. Any shade will do, really, but a blushing pink like mine holds a special place in my heart. Imagine my delight when I discovered that in 1962, pink was very much in vogue! It's like my spirit animal travelled through the decades ahead of me. And I have a sneaky suspicion this colour will never really go out of fashion…it’s so vibrant, so energetic. I believe everyone deserves a little pink in their lives!
Pink & Performing!
Speaking of colour, wouldn't you know it, but there was some brilliant ballet happening all across the globe on this date in history.
- In Moscow, The Bolshoi Theatre was home to a performance of the beloved "Swan Lake" by Tchaikovsky. A beautiful story of love, betrayal and swan transformations. I could just picture the elegant swan lake dancers, their graceful moves making my own heart flutter. Imagine the audience, mesmerised by the breathtaking performance, lost in the magic of the music!
- Across the Atlantic, in New York City , The New York City Ballet was showcasing "Serenade" by George Balanchine. The beautiful, classic, graceful and flowing steps...oh to see the talent! It's no surprise it remains a favourite today!
- Meanwhile, the Royal Ballet at London's Covent Garden was preparing to dazzle with the premiere of "The Tales of Hoffmann." A haunting, passionate piece, and I have no doubt it set the tone for the entire year ahead!
I’ve got to admit, the thought of so much dance, such talent, was thrilling. It filled me with an irresistible urge to dance! Luckily, I was able to get a few moves in myself. A tiny little impromptu performance in front of an excited young girl and her father! The pure joy in her eyes when she caught a glimpse of my dazzling pink tutu made it worth it.
Ballet Shopping Spree
Once my toes had tired from dancing, we had some time for a bit of shopping. Imagine my delight when I found a little boutique crammed full of elegant and luxurious dancing shoes! Now, don't get me wrong, a classic ballet slipper is always perfect, but nothing beats a dash of luxury, right? I purchased a pair of stunning, delicate slippers, stitched with the most intricate patterns, just for myself. (Magic Meg needed a little rest, so I couldn't treat her to some new horseshoes just yet - poor thing!)
Ballet History Lessons
My travels through 1962 weren't all glitter and glamour, mind you. I like to get my nose into the historical details too!
That year, Dance Magazine in the US celebrated a significant milestone! It reached its 25th anniversary - a remarkable feat! That's twenty-five years of ballet news, critiques, gossip and everything else our ballet hearts could desire. And as we know, knowledge is powerful! Every little detail adds to the rich tapestry of dance history! And Dance Magazine, from what I can gather, was definitely part of the tapestry.
It’s important to know where we come from to fully appreciate where we're going, isn't it?
My Magical Memories
You might be wondering, how I fund my travels and these spectacular pink tutu escapades. Why, my dears, with performances, of course! I regularly perform in front of audiences of eager fans, with my enchanting blend of classic and contemporary dance. Every move I make, every flourish and graceful spin tells a story, and fills their hearts with wonder. It's a wonderful way to pay homage to the incredible dancers from decades gone by, who have inspired so many - and me in particular!
My bag, as always, is bursting with trinkets and stories of the time, ready to share with you. The exquisite leather notebook, purchased on the very first of the year in a little French antique shop. The vintage photographs of ballerinas frozen in mid-pose, their tutus billowing in the wind. A small fragment of faded newspaper detailing the triumphant opening night of The Tales of Hoffmann. Each item a small glimpse into the world of ballet from decades past, each telling a unique tale.
I promise, you will hear all about it soon - it wouldn’t be right to keep it all to myself.
It's back to Derbyshire now for me - until next time, darlings!
Do you want to travel with me? Tell me about a moment in ballet history you'd love to witness, or about a performance you enjoyed, or perhaps you have some beautiful memories you'd like to share? Maybe you have a favourite tutu too?
Until next time!
Your very own Pink Tutu Princess, Emma
Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for all the latest adventures!
