#BalletHistory during 1964 05 May

Hello dears! Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing, time-travelling ballerina! Today, I'm whisking you away on another extraordinary journey, all the way back to 5th May, 1964. It's a bit chilly here in Derbyshire this week, but not so chilly for a trip back in time, right?

Just as always, I woke up this morning feeling all excited about our monthly time travel adventure! I packed my trusty leather rucksack with my sketchbook, some pink ribbons, and a lovely new quill for my diary - my pen has been rather squeaky recently. I always find the most exquisite stationary in the past! Then I called for Magic Meg, my pink-sparkling Shire horse with the golden hooves and the whitest mane and tail you've ever seen. I told Meg all about the fascinating things I was hoping to discover, especially ballet performances. She whinnied softly and pawed the ground, so excited for our next adventure. I was so keen I grabbed my pink tutu right out of the wash. It was still damp, but nothing a bit of a magical whirlwind couldn't handle!

Oh, dears, before we dive into the 1964 delights, let's talk about the lovely fashion choices. As I stepped into the portal, I swapped my usual ballet shoes for a pair of exquisite white kidskin ballet slippers. I know, they are just divine, right? I tied on my shimmering silk ribbon – so glamorous! The time portal always creates a little breeze, so I wanted to make sure I looked absolutely impeccable! I think I do love a bit of glitter – it's the pinkest way to travel through time!

We arrived at Covent Garden, the iconic London Opera House, just in time for the Royal Ballet's matinee performance. Now, dears, you can't imagine the thrill! A wonderful ballet, 'The Firebird', based on a Russian folk tale! You've simply got to imagine it – the dancers, lithe and strong in their beautiful costumes, gliding across the stage, like mythical creatures from another world. Their moves were full of energy, so captivating! I even spotted one lovely lady sporting a blush-pink tutu with feathers on the skirt. Isn't that just heavenly? It was quite the sight!

Speaking of divine dancers, this particular performance featured the renowned prima ballerina, Margot Fonteyn, who just graced us with her presence, her effortless style, and dazzling footwork. The ballet world in 1964 seemed positively ablaze with excitement. And this was just the start! It wasn’t just Covent Garden bursting with brilliance.

The year 1964, dears, was an absolute flurry of ballet! The French ballerina, Sylvie Guillem, debuted at the Paris Opera. She was 14 years old then, just a young bud blossoming into a dance sensation! Oh, I could only imagine seeing her at that young age. The ballet world is simply teeming with talented individuals, you just need to look at the right place at the right time. Just like us here, today!

After Covent Garden, we decided to hop onto Magic Meg's back for a little spin across the Atlantic. Remember, Meg travels by magic, so it's a mere hop, skip, and a twirl!

Now, if you ask me, there's nothing better than ballet, especially in the sunshine! We went straight to New York City, and oh my, was it grand! I'm always blown away by New York, just so alive! We strolled along the iconic streets of Manhattan to catch a performance at the New York City Ballet at Lincoln Center. Now this company, darlings, is bursting with creativity. In 1964, George Balanchine, a world-renowned choreographer, unveiled a new ballet named 'Agon.' It's a sophisticated blend of classical techniques, with contemporary choreography – and let's just say, it was revolutionary at the time! The audience was enthralled by its bold beauty.

We went straight for a spot near the stage - just had to feel that buzz of excitement! It's amazing how ballet transcends languages and cultures, you can literally feel the joy in every twirl and leap. It's so unifying! And don’t even get me started on the fashion. There was so much to discover about the way people expressed themselves through style in 1964 – from sleek, bold outfits to beautiful dance costumes that danced along with the dancers' graceful movements. It was truly a feast for the eyes!

Next, I hopped back onto Meg, and we zoomed down to Buenos Aires. I always enjoy a quick tour through South America! It's the perfect blend of fiery energy and vibrant colours - just like a lovely, shimmering pink tutu, of course!

The world of ballet is full of exciting news - Argentina was about to host an event called "Festival Internacional de Ballet." So you know I had to attend! I always love a ballet festival, they're bursting with talent from around the world.

And let’s be honest, the Argentinean tango itself is practically ballet! Such lovely footwork! Such graceful swaying and passionate poses! It's an incredibly sensual art form that truly captures the soul of Argentina.

We journeyed onwards, soaking up all the beautiful cultural delights along the way. And oh my, darling, I’ve got to show you something: we went to Vienna, to see the famed Vienna State Opera perform a grand ballet called ‘The Sleeping Beauty.' This production is exquisite. And let me tell you, the tutus? Oh my! Just picture the most magnificent ball gowns, like shimmering clouds of silk, with gleaming jewels and a sprinkle of magic dust. Simply exquisite!

Speaking of exquisite tutus, Vienna State Opera ballet is famed for their incredible wardrobe, so many elegant dancers! They have been around since 1711, can you believe it? All that history, all that tradition, and a love of dance! Oh my, darling, I really think I've found my inspiration!

We popped in for a glass of Viennese coffee and a sweet slice of torte! (Oh, the delectable treats in the past!) And let's not forget, the iconic, graceful choreography – oh, it is a delight to the senses! Ballet simply transports you. You are lost in the magic, in the movement, and it just leaves you with such an air of inspiration!

Back at home, I couldn’t resist sharing all my beautiful sketches and stories from my journey. Just look at the stunning ballet dancers! Oh my goodness, you just have to see them - the strength, the artistry! Each ballet had something special to offer, and each one of these iconic moments made history.

And dears, that’s the magic of ballet. Every step, every turn tells a story, a piece of history comes alive. We need to remember how dance is truly magical, how it binds us all together and how, in the swirling, breathtaking world of ballet, everyone’s story is a pink tutu waiting to be unveiled.

Well, dears, it's been a long day filled with amazing discoveries! My mind is reeling, and my feet ache from all the twirling. But there's so much more to see and learn. There's a whole world of stories and dancing out there! Remember, if you’re ever feeling low or unsure about the path you are on - remember your favourite pink tutu and twirl! Twirling always gets you through a bad day and opens the door to the most exciting adventure!

Until next month, stay pink, my loves, and keep twirling!

Emma x