Hello, darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back with another monthly dose of ballet history. This time, we're jetting back to the 7th of July, 1981. Grab your tiaras and tighten your tutus, because this journey is about to take us on a whirlwind adventure!
This month, dear readers, we are celebrating our 3847th blog post. Yes, you heard that right! Our beloved pink tutu journey is well and truly underway, taking us on thrilling voyages across time. The wonderful world of ballet keeps pulling me forward, a sparkly, sequined beacon in the past.
As you all know, funding these time travels is a rather glamorous affair, requiring my dazzling ballet performances at prestigious theatres across the land. My fundraising last month was absolutely spectacular. I absolutely stole the show at the Derbyshire Derby Opera House, captivating the audience with my spirited interpretation of Giselle. I was inundated with flowers and heartfelt applause - not to mention, the money collected went straight to ensuring our next exciting adventure was within reach.
Now, as my magical pink Shire, Meg, the dazzling mare with golden hooves, waits patiently outside, I simply have to share our extraordinary journey back to 1981. Her snowy white mane and tail shimmered under the midday sun as she trotted me, my leather rucksack brimming with curiosity for the past, towards the portal of time...
The World of Ballet: 7th July 1981
Upon arriving in 1981, I must say, my darling tutus just seemed to scream at me! Everything had so much colour and volume. The fabrics were heavier, the layers more pronounced and every movement was a statement. I was so overwhelmed, in a good way, I grabbed a quick (but chic!) bite in a Parisian bistro, tucking into some delicate pastries with a dollop of whipped cream and a lovely glass of kir.
Back to 1981, darling! My time travel diaries inform me that this was a very significant date in the world of ballet! Oh, how I long for such excitement...
New York City Ballet: At the time, it was undergoing a transformative period, a glorious time for them, led by the charismatic and visionary choreographer, George Balanchine. I, myself, would have simply loved to have witnessed their artistry - it must have been a sight to behold. The program for July 7th, 1981 at the New York State Theatre consisted of works that are now part of the repertory's historical foundation, which I must definitely revisit when I return. I imagine the excitement that coursed through the New York theatre in anticipation! The evening offered Balanchine's groundbreaking masterpiece Agon, which debuted just a few years earlier, his iconic Serenade, as well as his Western Symphony.
London’s Royal Opera House: In July, Covent Garden was offering a series of the very captivating The Royal Ballet. A performance of Swan Lake, featuring the beautiful Sylvie Guillem as the ethereal Swan Queen. Such elegant performances...they remind me why I devote my life to the grace of dance. They also offered the exquisite choreography of Frederick Ashton's The Two Pigeons. The performances ran throughout July, creating a buzzing buzz of artistic activity! Oh to have been present, I do so long to see a performance in such opulent and beautiful surroundings. The opulence would have been sublime. It's definitely an idea for future visits, dear readers.
Around the World: Whilst my research led me to London and New York, the world of ballet was buzzing! The famed Paris Opera Ballet was taking on the timeless tale of La Bayadère, whilst The Kirov Ballet in St. Petersburg captivated audiences with their powerful productions. There was also an exciting show, the premiere of Roland Petit’s new The Young Girl and Death. How utterly delightful and dramatic! Such intriguing and exciting performances - so very stimulating. They would be ideal for a new pink tutu dance routine!
As I travel, dear readers, my rucksack on my back, collects a few precious, little memories and a piece of history, for www.pink-tutu.com. I am delighted to be sharing these stories and experiences with you.
Oh, 1981...your colourful fashion was utterly captivating. Imagine those layers of frills and feathers. The iconic and magnificent tutus with huge plumes that danced like wings. I couldn't resist bringing a couple of stunning finds back from my travels. Imagine a white tutu with a glorious red rose - pure 80's glamour. I even bought a pair of the coolest neon leg warmers for a touch of 80s flair.
But darling readers, you know my favourite fashion element, are my beloved pink tutus - such elegance and flair. After my little sojourn, I am positively inspired and I can't wait to get into my tutu!
Now, darling, if you’ll excuse me, Meg needs to return me to the present day, as my dancers are waiting for their classes and I am late! Oh, the life of a ballet-loving time traveler is so hectic but also oh, so glamorous.
Until next month, darling! Stay sparkly and full of grace. And as always, remember that the most wonderful things come to those who believe in pink tutus and dancing like nobody’s watching. 🩰 💖
