Greetings, darling ballet-lovers! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you away on another delightful journey through the enchanting history of ballet! This month, we're travelling back to January 1st, 1982, a date filled with excitement in the world of dance! Buckle up, darling, Magic Meg and I are ready to prance through time.
As always, I was sporting my absolute favourite, blush-pink tutu, its delicate layers shimmering in the morning light as I saddled up Magic Meg, my stunning pink, sparkling Shire horse. Golden hooves, white mane and tail flowing like a river of silk… what a pair we are! We were ready for an adventure!
First stop, Derbyshire, England, my birthplace! January 1st 1982 saw a magical New Year's performance at the Derby Playhouse Theatre. The stage was alive with the captivating movements of "The Sleeping Beauty", a timeless ballet that I simply adore. Imagine, darlings, a lavish production brimming with graceful ballerinas, charming princes, and even a cheeky fairy or two! It would have been a glorious experience to be caught up in the swirl of their elegance!
Now, our trip takes us further afield.
Across the pond to the United States, we find ourselves at the American Ballet Theatre in New York City. Here, the legendary Mikhail Baryshnikov was at the height of his career, captivating audiences with his electrifying presence. Imagine watching this breathtaking dancer soar across the stage, every move a testament to the power and grace of ballet! He was, and still is, a true icon.
To the Netherlands next, to the iconic Netherlands Dance Theatre in The Hague. There, the company, a favourite of mine with its innovative contemporary choreography, was wowing audiences with its unique take on ballet. From a single, intimate performance to large-scale productions, the Dutch were, as they always are, embracing innovation and pushing boundaries in dance! I'd have been sure to visit the theatre in the Hague, and grab a gorgeous piece of vintage ballet merchandise for my collection back home.
Across the continent to the Paris Opera Ballet, where legendary ballerinas like Ghislaine Thesmar, Noëlla Pontois, and Marie-Agnès Gillot were inspiring the world. In Paris, darling, I can never resist the call of the latest ballet fashion trends! Imagine browsing the beautiful Parisian shops for a new pair of ballet shoes, a dazzling dance outfit or simply soaking up the romantic air. Ballet, fashion, Paris - truly a perfect trifecta.
To complete our globe-trotting dance marathon, I couldn't resist a visit to Australia, a continent rich in its own unique ballet traditions. There, the Australian Ballet was shining, with its stunning productions of classic ballets and new works. Imagine stepping into the vibrant world of Aussie ballet, experiencing their passion and creativity!
And lastly, The Royal Ballet, the undisputed queen of ballet in London, continued to captivate audiences with its dazzling performances. What a feast for the eyes, wouldn’t it have been? A trip to Covent Garden to see The Nutcracker or Swan Lake, accompanied by a delicious ballet-themed lunch – just imagine it!
I simply love 1982 for the way it brought together the grace and elegance of traditional ballet with a touch of innovation. From the powerful dancers to the innovative choreographers, there was a magic in the air!
As you know, darlings, it is my mission in life to get everyone wearing a pink tutu! Maybe that was the reason, maybe not, but in 1982 "Pink and the Ballet" had started to take its rightful place as a bold fashion statement in dance wear! That year saw the first “pink explosion” in ballet! With its bright and fun energy, this vibrant hue symbolised freedom, youth and femininity! I'd have been in my element!
Before I sign off, let’s look into my magical leather rucksack and explore the little trinkets I picked up from the different time periods. From The Netherlands, a charming miniature of a Delft Blue, ballerinas. From The Hague theatre a program with a picture of my ballet idol – Rudolf Nureyev from when he danced the "Nijinsky" ballet. And from The Derby Playhouse a signed flyer from "Sleeping Beauty", a treasured reminder of a magical performance!
Now, my darling ballet-lovers, don't forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com for my latest post next month!
Until next time, may your lives be filled with the grace and beauty of ballet!
Lots of Love, Emma 💖
