Hello my lovely pink tutu-loving readers! It’s Emma here, ready to whisk you away on another magical journey through time with my trusty steed, Magic Meg. This month, we’re setting our sights on a particularly glamorous year – 1985. And you’ll be surprised to learn that the world of ballet was bubbling with excitement!
You might be thinking, "Emma, surely everyone was wearing pink tutus by then?” Well, unfortunately, not quite. I know, my heart sank too. But don’t fret! The 1980s were a pivotal time for ballet, with some incredible dancers and choreographers shaking up the scene, pushing boundaries, and challenging conventions. It's a decade of bright lights, daring choreography, and a spirit of change.
Our journey begins in a picturesque corner of Derbyshire, England – that’s where I’m from! Imagine me, dressed in my favorite blush pink tutu, the tulle flowing around my ankles like a soft pink cloud. On my back, a worn leather rucksack filled with vintage ballet shoes, costume swatches, and stories just waiting to be uncovered.
Ready to ride?
Magic Meg whinnies impatiently, her golden hooves tapping impatiently. Her white mane and tail sparkle in the midday sun, catching the light like a thousand tiny pink diamonds. It’s time to leap back in time.
1985 - The year of the dance explosion!
Landing gently in the 80s, we're met with a burst of energy, a pulsating energy, an 80s dance explosion! Everyone seems to be on the move, and it feels infectious! I’m drawn to the theatres, the pulsating sounds of synthesizers, and a new wave of ballet music which feels wonderfully daring and a touch experimental. There’s a buzz in the air – something exciting is brewing.
Let’s catch a show:
I have a little bird in the theatre world, she tells me that American Ballet Theatre, known for their spectacular performances and talented dancers, is on the scene, presenting "Giselle" - a tragic yet powerful ballet classic – with its enduring theme of love, betrayal and sacrifice, this masterpiece certainly captivated audiences then, and still resonates deeply today. It’s like a dance of swirling emotions!
The great Rudolf Nureyev, a legendary figure in the ballet world, makes a big appearance in 1985 – a whirlwind of artistry! I even heard whispers that he might have been working on a new ballet inspired by The Nutcracker – how utterly delightful. Imagine his iconic charisma, blended with Tchaikovsky’s beautiful music – it sounds magical.
Of course, Margot Fonteyn , a timeless treasure of the ballet world, never truly left the stage, and this year saw her continue to grace audiences with her breathtaking talent. There’s something magical about watching someone like her, effortlessly glide across the stage – like a wisp of smoke – pure, and captivating!
In London, we can catch “A Month in the Country”, a light, joyful, ballet adaptation based on Turgenev’s play. This is the ballet equivalent of a perfect picnic on a summer’s day, full of elegance and grace. I hear there’s a stunning ballerina called Tamara Rojo making waves! Her talent is undeniable! I simply must see this show.
* Ballet Fashion:* The costumes! The 80s had their own unique sense of style, and this extends into ballet as well. Tutus are certainly a statement, with bolder colors and fabrics! Think deep reds, daring greens and even shimmering silver. Think layers! Perhaps some extravagant ornamentation to add that dramatic flair – after all, ballet has to be theatrical and memorable. And it must be bold, but comfortable enough for those effortless spins and leaps!
Dance with us: Of course, a journey to the past is not complete without experiencing the dance scene firsthand. So, I find myself at a ballet school. There, a mix of new talent and dedicated dance professionals rehearse under the guidance of experienced teachers, their graceful moves flow with a mix of classic ballet and more contemporary choreography. And you know what? I have to admit, while the 80s were more bold and bright, a classic, pink tutu never goes out of style.
* The Time-Travel Back:*
Our 1985 adventures draw to a close. Back on Magic Meg, her pink sparkling mane gleaming in the moonlight, we ride back to my own time, bringing home stories of a captivating ballet scene that continues to inspire and enchant the world. The 80s – a time for ballet to reinvent itself, to try new things, to find new heights.
But one thing remains constant: ballet has a special power to make us believe in magic, to transport us to a world where dreams take flight. And yes, even though pink tutus may have been somewhat “less common" then – that will never stop me! My quest to inspire the world to wear pink tutus continues – one time-travel adventure at a time.
Stay tuned, my dear readers! Our next ballet journey is around the corner. Don’t forget to follow us at www.pink-tutu.com to join our journey!
Yours always,
Emma
P.S. What colour tutu will you wear for your next ballet class? Don’t forget to share your adventures with me – after all, we are all connected by the magic of ballet.
