Hello my darling darlings! Welcome to another dazzling edition of Pink Tutu Travels, your one-stop shop for all things ballet and a whole lot of pink! This month, I've been twirling through the archives and found a date that tickles my toes - 5th May 1972. Buckle up, darling, because this journey's going to be a doozy!
Oh, but before I whisk you away, let's take a moment to admire Magic Meg, my trusty steed, a pink, shimmering Shire with a mane and tail like spun moonlight, and hooves the colour of liquid gold. My little pink leather rucksack is securely strapped on her back, ready for all the fabulous ballet treasures weâll be discovering. My outfit? Naturally, it's a beautiful blush pink tutu, complete with layers of delicate tulle and glittering sequins. You can never go wrong with a little sparkle!
As the clock struck twelve last night, we galloped into the past, arriving in a bustling, energetic 1972. What did the ballet world have in store for us this day? Well, I'm absolutely thrilled to report that, even in those days, there was a whole lot going on!
A Ballet Blast From the Past:
The very first stop on our journey is the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. The magnificent company is currently showing "Giselle" in all its tragic and romantic glory. Now, I must admit, I'm always particularly fond of seeing classic ballet like Giselle performed. The emotions are so beautifully conveyed, and the dancers move with such grace. You just get lost in the story!
And then, there was the Royal Ballet in London, where they're performing a breathtaking âSleeping Beautyâ. Can you even imagine? That spectacular waltz in the second act⌠absolutely dreamy! The costumes must have been divine.
In New York City, we couldnât miss out on the glorious American Ballet Theatre! They were showcasing their incredible skills with "The Sleeping Beauty" too. Isnât that a coincidence? You could say "Sleeping Beauty" is in the air!
While in New York, we decided to hop by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater to soak in the stunning movement and captivating storytelling of their "Revelations" performance. This truly is a must-see ballet, even though it's not a traditional ballet, its unique form and powerful expression resonated with us in a remarkable way!
We found time for a whirlwind tour of a ballet class in Paris, which was exhilarating. We watched the dancers in their elegant and sophisticated movements, all in that effortlessly French style, with incredible control and elegance. They moved with an undeniable poise.
As I wandered through the streets of London, I stumbled across a poster advertising a performance of "Romeo and Juliet" at the Sadlerâs Wells Theatre, by the Royal Ballet. Itâs almost as though destiny was sending me their way. Oh, my dear blog readers, let me tell you, the drama and emotional intensity of Romeo and Juliet were captivating. The power of their love, so raw and honest. I just love the way this story unfolds.
A Fashion Fiesta in the Past:
I couldnât resist the temptation of browsing through the fashion boutiques of 1972. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed! It's a style that I absolutely adore, a wonderful blend of classic and quirky. We saw chic pencil skirts paired with colorful turtlenecks and bell bottoms. The era embraced playful and flowing silhouettes. I spied some fabulously bold patterned pantsuits, all in the vibrant hues that were so fashionable at the time. We even found a vintage dance studio in the heart of the City and purchased a truly gorgeous pink tutu, hand-sewn and embellished with rhinestones. It's now a cherished piece in my personal collection.
Speaking of fashion, did I mention I also took a look at the ballerina's fashion trends of 1972? The ballet shoes of the day, with their graceful lines and satin ribbon embellishments, absolutely stole my heart! Imagine dancing with a touch of vintage glamour? You could feel a wave of elegant femininity flowing through your every step. I must admit, the ballet footwear of 1972 just oozed sophistication!
But itâs not just the clothing that makes an outfit. 1972 ballerinas sported the most lovely hairstyles, soft and bouncy, either gathered into buns or cascading in romantic waves, which is completely my style! Their makeup was so subtle yet so glamorous â think bold lashes, glowing skin, and a splash of pink blush, perfect for showcasing their beauty. It is all about bringing out natural loveliness in a way that adds to the performance, not takes away from it.
We had a lovely visit at the National Ballet of Canada, they gave us a grand tour and even gave Magic Meg a bucket full of carrots. We had the chance to interview a Canadian ballet legend - Evelyn Hart. She shared some fascinating anecdotes about life as a ballerina in the 1970s. And can you believe she said she once performed âSwan Lakeâ with just three rehearsals?
We had to hop over to the Bolshoi Academy of Ballet in Moscow for a chat with one of the greatest choreographers of the century, the brilliant Yuri Grigorovich. We talked about his stunning interpretations of classic ballets and his revolutionary innovative approaches to choreography, a true game-changer in the world of ballet. I find his style quite striking, but always so engaging.
My journey back to my time was filled with excitement. Every single ballet encounter, from the mesmerizing shows to the insightful interviews, reinforced my unwavering passion for this magical art form. It seems ballet, despite the decades, always has its heart in the right place.
Well, darling darlings, my ballet adventures for the month have come to a close, but I will be back next month, ready to whisk you all off on a dazzling, twirling journey through time. In the meantime, remember, ballet is always worth a little celebration, and a pink tutu can make everything brighter!
Stay glamorous and never stop dancing,
Emma xx www.pink-tutu.com
