#BalletHistory during 1964 01 January

Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where ballet reigns supreme, and pink is the only colour that matters. It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, and today, I'm absolutely buzzing to take you on a whirlwind journey back to January 1st, 1964. I can almost feel the excitement in the air!

Oh, and my dear readers, let me introduce you to Magic Meg – my extraordinary, pink-sparkling Shire horse with those gorgeous golden hooves. She whisked me through time on this trip, carrying me on her majestic back, while my trusty leather rucksack held all the treasures I’d gather, ready to fill my blog with historical ballet tidbits!

This journey had been on my to-do list for ages. I simply couldn't resist diving into the ballet scene of 1964! That year was so vibrant – brimming with iconic ballets, legendary dancers, and even a bit of fashion excitement! So, fasten your ballet shoes, grab a pink-hued cocktail, and let's twirl back in time, shall we?

My first stop? Paris, of course! That’s where I wanted to experience the magic of the Paris Opera Ballet, the very heart of the world’s ballet stage. Their new production, "La Sylphide", had premiered the year before, but I simply had to catch the iconic story unfold on that Parisian stage. My heart skipped a beat just watching these elegant, ethereal dancers perform – so incredibly graceful and breathtaking! Did I mention the beautiful, handcrafted costumes? Oh my, they were just exquisite! I already felt a spark of inspiration, just waiting to blossom into new creations.

But wait, there's more! I couldn't leave Paris without a stop at the legendary Le Lido. I know what you're thinking - "Emma, a cabaret?!" But listen, darlings. It’s so much more than that! While “Le Lido” may be known for its showgirls and glamour, its cabaret, "Aquatique" included incredible choreography with dancers moving with astounding artistry – even in the pool! It was truly innovative for the time and I was captivated by the energy, the music, and the breathtaking visuals!

Speaking of Paris, it simply wouldn’t be right without indulging in a little shopping spree, wouldn't it? Of course, it had to be ballet-themed! My eyes feasted on the elegant ballet shoes and exquisite costume jewels – a delightful feast for my sartorial senses. Imagine – ballerinas of 1964 gliding onto the stage with shoes I was about to own! The whole experience was simply magical!

Back across the English Channel, I found myself in London, where the Royal Ballet Company was already captivating audiences with their rendition of "Giselle". I had seen this ballet so many times in the future but nothing compared to watching it in this period, knowing it had such a significant impact on the world of ballet!

My time travelling diary mentions that 1964 also marked the premiere of a "new and innovative" version of "Sleeping Beauty". I can’t wait to get my hands on that program, especially as it’s at Covent Garden! It’s a bit different than what we think of when we imagine ballet. But there are certain elements from those years, those styles of choreography that have still influenced our current ballet.

But darling, did I mention that in this time travel adventure, I met Margot Fonteyn herself? It was at a rehearsal in Covent Garden. It was magical! She was simply stunning, elegant, with such an effortless grace and stage presence.

" You really love those tutus, don’t you, dear? *” she remarked when I confessed that she was my idol. I couldn’t help but blush, the iconic Dame Fonteyn! Then, she invited me to join a rehearsal with the *Royal Ballet, just as they were working on "Swan Lake", I felt completely swept away by this unbelievable experience, but I tried to focus as she gently explained about their “ballet innovations”. I was speechless! She even gave me one of those incredible floral hair clips she used to wear while on stage - a little something to take back with me to the future – it will take a special place in my collection.

The 1960s saw a huge evolution in ballet fashion. I had to delve into the fashion scene, and let me tell you, the shops in London were full of stunning dancewear! And do you know what the coolest trend was? Ballet slippers worn on the street! Think sleek black ballet slippers with little ankle socks or white leather ballet pumps.

Even for casual attire, there were ballet inspired items that people adored, including soft-knitted cardigans, flared pants (so reminiscent of a ballerina’s graceful skirt!) and knee-length dresses, with delicate embroidery and embroidery lace. You’ll find me sporting my favourite ballet slippers outside the theatre and on my daily errands soon! I’m always on the lookout for fresh and fashionable looks to blend into the fabric of any time.

Speaking of trends, one of my favourite boutiques, “The Ballet Boutique”, in London, had the most exquisite dancewear in shades of blush, rose, and baby pink. There was even a whole shelf of tulle – so many shades and textures - just to imagine those flowing tutus. My hands practically snatched up everything!

You bet, my rucksack was brimming with souvenirs! But not just the “things” of this era – the memories of my time travelling experience, and my conversations with the dancers and those in the ballet world are the greatest treasure I bring back! I can’t wait to see what fashion inspiration they will spark!

Do you remember my ultimate dream? To make the pink tutu the ultimate dancewear fashion statement – all over the world. You know, it’s already catching on! I find that even the most understated outfit looks better when paired with a touch of pink – a hint of tulle here, a ballet-inspired accessory there.

But the thing is, it isn't just about fashion to me. For me, the pink tutu is about joy, whimsy, and, yes, a little bit of rebellion against those who want to box us in. It's a statement about embracing creativity and freedom! I don’t need much convincing to spend an entire afternoon in my pink tutu, spinning around my bedroom as I listen to classic ballet tunes, even if the windows need to be boarded up from my crazy neighbours who just want "normal"!

We have to talk about this! The year 1964 was just one year! As we head deeper into this incredible decade, I already feel more excited. The dance world will have even more innovations, more groundbreaking stories to discover, and even more stylish, vibrant, ballet fashion trends to fall in love with!

Remember, you can find all my pink-tutu time travelling adventures at www.pink-tutu.com.     I  post once a month, so you won’t miss any of my ballet history antics.  Do share with me  what you are planning to do to show off  *your*  love for pink tutus – don’t be afraid to share it!  Remember, I  am always  here,   just  waiting  for your  *Pink-Tutu*  comments, questions,  or  ideas  !

Happy Dancing,  

Emma xx