Hello my darling darlings, and welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels, the only ballet blog that traverses the sands of time! It's your girl, Emma, here, back from a whirl through history, twirling right into your heart.
This month's journey took me, oh, wouldn't you know it, right back to 5th May, 1980. Now, I'm a sucker for a bit of history, especially when it's wrapped up in all things ballet. So, as always, my faithful steed, Magic Meg, my beautiful pink shimmering Shire with golden hooves and a mane and tail like spun clouds, whisked us through the air on a grand adventure. (Can't you picture her, prancing through the past with her rosy coat glistening under the starlight? We make quite a pair, wouldn't you say?)
You might be surprised, but the world of ballet on that day in 1980 was absolutely buzzing. Imagine, all the wonderful ballets happening, all the magical dancers gracefully twirling, and all the stunning tutus fluttering… Oh, the romance of it!
Backstage with Bolshoi and Beyond
Firstly, let's head to Russia! The legendary Bolshoi Ballet were holding court in Moscow with a revival of "Giselle," the story of a peasant girl whose love story tragically unravels into madness. Think dramatic flourishes, expressive pantomime, and of course, those exquisite white tutus that make your heart flutter like a ballerina on point! You know how much I adore the traditional designs, and they were absolutely flawless. My dear, flawless!
In New York, the New York City Ballet was in full swing with their performance of “La Bayadere,” a story of love and loss set amidst the glamour and beauty of India. Imagine silks shimmering like moonlight and exquisite hand gestures, just begging to be admired! And don't even get me started on the costumes! I'm already sketching new designs inspired by their incredible detail, all those sparkly bangles and glorious flowing fabrics, and yes, some vibrant, beautiful tutus. I mean, how can you have a good time in India without a bit of glitter, eh? I’ve picked up some lovely fabric in the vintage shops today, I can't wait to show you what I can create.
Across the pond in London, the Royal Ballet were showcasing “Romeo and Juliet,” one of my favourite classic romances, full of aching emotion, heartbreaking betrayals, and, yes, a little bit of passion. (As an aside, if you haven’t yet had the chance to experience the power of this ballet, do go and see it, my dears, it's just magic!)
A Peek Into the Past
This wasn't just about famous performances, you know. It was about all the budding ballerinas and aspiring choreographers, each striving to capture a glimpse of the spotlight, all adding to the wonderful tapestry of ballet history. I even saw a little school ballet in Derbyshire, oh the smiles on those children's faces! It warmed my heart.
Speaking of heartwarming moments, let me tell you, there was a delightful display of "Swan Lake" in a lovely little town hall, where I managed to nab myself some old ballet posters - think beautiful silhouettes in dramatic poses and dazzling splashes of colour, such chic vintage pieces! I simply adore a good bargain! But let’s not forget that most of my vintage treasures are donated to worthy causes or used to make bespoke vintage costumes!
Pink is in the Air!
Of course, this entire journey wouldn't have been complete without my favourite part - sharing my passion for all things pink! Imagine, darling, walking through 1980 and seeing the iconic ballet style of the time. There were a lot of tutus and beautiful point shoes to admire. But the colour, the colour… I felt inspired to add a dash of pink to every ensemble I saw!
Now, I know what you're thinking, "Emma, do we have to go all out pink?" My darlings, let me tell you, there's no pressure to embrace full-on fuchsia! Just a little sprinkle of pink in your hair, a dash of pink on your ribbons, or even a pink ballerina charm on your dance bag… It’s about making your style your own, embracing a touch of je ne sais quoi in all your endeavours!
And to Wrap It All Up…
Oh, I almost forgot! On 5th May, 1980, a small miracle occurred – the American Ballet Theatre danced on a barge, yes you read that correctly, a barge, on a pond in the middle of Central Park! It’s quite extraordinary to think about now, with the stunning backdrop of skyscrapers all around. I mean, how absolutely unique and just a little bit fabulous, eh? This kind of audacious move just proves that creativity in ballet can blossom anywhere.
It’s time to say “Au revoir” for now! But before I jet off to my next time travel escapade, please do let me know what you think of my 1980 adventures. What kind of tutu would you be wearing? (Tell me in the comments!)
And most importantly, always remember: Never be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina! Keep on twirling, my darlings, and always remember, pink is the answer.
Until next time, stay sparkling, and keep dancing!
Yours in pink,
Emma
Pink Tutu Travels, www.pink-tutu.com
