#BalletHistory during 1969 05 May

Hello, my lovelies! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing time traveller, back from a whirlwind of a journey to 5th May 1969. This month’s jaunt was a real treat - so much going on in the ballet world, you wouldn’t believe! As usual, I’m back with a treasure trove of stories, fashions, and experiences from my trusty rucksack, ready to share them with all of you on the fabulous www.pink-tutu.com!

Let me just say, hopping on the back of Magic Meg and feeling the wind in my pink tutu as we soared through time, it really was the most magical way to kick off the month!

We arrived in London, the city practically buzzing with dance! In 1969, the Royal Ballet had already finished its tour of Russia and China - what a brilliant experience for everyone! They returned with all those exciting cultural exchanges, and they’re already gearing up for their upcoming spring season at Covent Garden. This month saw an incredible performance of “The Firebird,” starring the incomparable Antoinette Sibley. She really owned that role with her dynamic style and athletic grace. It truly was a performance to remember!

I even found out about some very exciting news - Margot Fonteyn is retiring, after a spectacular career spanning decades! Although she’s leaving the stage, she’s certainly not leaving us - her passion and influence in ballet continue to be felt around the world.

The atmosphere around Covent Garden felt electrifying, buzzing with creativity. Even the famous Sadler’s Wells theatre was brimming with excitement, hosting its own share of brilliant performances. And wouldn't you know it, right down the road, the very stylish ballet school run by Dame Ninette de Valois is in full swing. Talk about legendary, my dear readers, that is one school to behold!

Speaking of things to behold, darling, the 1960s were simply a kaleidoscope of colour and daring designs. And the world of ballet was certainly no exception! The dancers’ costumes had so much vibrancy - bold geometric shapes, dramatic swishes of material, and an overall spirit of innovation. The sleek lines of the costumes made the movements look so much sharper and more captivating. Just what a ballerina wants to be: noticed, respected, and absolutely fabulous!

Even off-stage, the fashion reflected a fun and adventurous attitude. Everyone’s wearing brightly coloured mini skirts and daring geometric patterns, and let’s not forget the fabulously high, swinging platform shoes - truly a style that keeps on inspiring. But trust me, nothing beats the beautiful and elegant ballerina bun! It just never goes out of fashion.

What struck me most about this particular journey is how the world was increasingly coming together through the art of ballet. You could feel the excitement for dance reaching across oceans and borders. This month’s Ballet Magazine, by the way, published a captivating piece on ballet's global expansion, showing how audiences around the world are embraced by the power of movement and beauty! It just makes you feel connected to a bigger picture, you know? It's like, all the world's a stage!

But perhaps the most enchanting memory I brought back from 1969 is of an intimate performance by the Australian Ballet. Their artistry and choreography felt like a magical dance in a beautiful dream. Their interpretation of classic ballets was truly mesmerising, full of fresh ideas and captivating energy! Seeing the ballet in all its glory in the beautiful old theatres, and getting to soak in that electric atmosphere, just leaves you with a smile that won’t quit, darlings!

Naturally, no time travel trip is complete without a little indulgence in the world of fashion, especially when you're a pink-tutu obsessed ballerina! Now, while in London, I popped into the quaintest ballet boutique, just bursting with stunning designs and enchanting costumes. Let me tell you, the details, darling - oh, the intricate beadwork and the beautiful fabrics - just perfect for every ballerina's fantasy. It felt like stepping into a wonderland of silk, sequins, and satin!

It wouldn’t be a trip to the ballet boutique without picking up a delightful pink tulle tutu - something for my growing collection. Now I can twirl about with pride, knowing I have a piece of 1969 with me!

Now my dears, every journey back in time inspires a different little ballet fantasy in me. For instance, imagine, in 1969, all the women walking around with pink tutus under their fashionable 60s mini dresses, just a tiny touch of ballerina whimsy to brighten up the world! Don't you think that would make the world just a little bit brighter? A sprinkle of tutus, a dash of dance, just what every ballerina at heart needs!

As always, my travels through time are never just about witnessing history; they're about spreading joy, celebrating the world of dance, and maybe just a little bit of convincing the world to wear a pink tutu. So, till next time, my darlings!

And don't forget to check out the website, www.pink-tutu.com and share your own time travel adventures!

This month's blog was extra special! I got to visit my old friend and ballet teacher, Mr. Reginald, in Derbyshire, and show him pictures from my trip. He's still full of energy at 87! He always makes me remember how special dance really is and why I should always aim to inspire. It makes me want to dance till my pink tutu shines!

Much love and happy twirls,

Emma