Hello lovelies, and welcome back to my pink-tutu-infused time-travelling escapades! Today, I’m whisking us back to the shimmering world of 5th May, 1985. Now, before I spill the tea on all the incredible ballet happenings, let’s talk about my ride! Magic Meg, my trusty steed, has been gleaming under the May sun. She was positively shimmering, you know? It's that extra sprinkle of magic she has that turns heads wherever we go, especially with those golden hooves.
For this trip, I adorned my signature pink tutu, naturally! It was a vintage number I found at a little boutique in Derby, just the other day. You know, I always say, you can’t have too many pink tutus. And speaking of Derby, well, you wouldn’t believe the incredible vintage ballet costume finds I uncovered back in 1985! You wouldn't believe what I unearthed in the back alleys! Some amazing pointe shoes with a little extra wear and tear, a sequined leotard straight from a Broadway show (more on that later!) and a stunning pink satin ballerina shawl that is now taking pride of place in my rucksack.
Alright, enough about the wardrobe – it’s time to talk ballet! 1985 was absolutely buzzing with talent and innovation. Imagine, we had the Bolshoi Ballet showcasing their prowess at London's Royal Opera House! A truly special event!
The world was abuzz with a performance by Mikhail Baryshnikov, one of ballet's greatest legends. Talk about an icon! I got so swept away in his grace and talent, it’s almost like I was on the stage with him, performing alongside this incredible artist. What an inspiration! I was particularly captivated by his interpretation of 'The Sleeping Beauty'; his every movement, a masterful blend of power and precision, pure elegance, all wrapped up in the perfect balance of strength and agility!
Oh! And I mustn’t forget about the amazing American Ballet Theatre! They were touring, gracing stages with their unparalleled skill and passion. Their version of ‘Swan Lake’ in particular, brought tears to my eyes with its beautiful, poignant storytelling. I mean, come on! Seeing these graceful swans taking flight, a ballet experience like no other. Every performance had me utterly enchanted. The whole experience left me wanting to get straight back into the studio, practise until my pointe shoes shone brighter than any spotlight!
The ballet fashion back in ‘85, now that’s a story for another day! From sleek leotards to beautifully elaborate tutus, every dancer brought a unique and stylish flair to the stage. Just you wait, because you know I have to dedicate a full post to showcasing some of the most incredible outfits! You can’t tell me there is a greater combination than pink and ballet!
Speaking of which, there was this fabulous dance school I found hidden in a small village. I peeked into their studio, you can imagine the gorgeous music streaming out. And as I caught a glimpse of the beautiful dancers rehearsing, it reminded me why I have fallen head over heels in love with this art form.
I mean, the way these dancers moved, it was almost like a whisper, flowing effortlessly like ribbons dancing in the wind, every movement painting a story! It's that kind of raw, powerful, and ethereal beauty that has always enchanted me about ballet! It was so inspiring to see these passionate individuals putting their heart and soul into every single step. And those young dancers? Let me tell you, I found myself twirling alongside them! (In my mind of course.) I always love getting my own ballet groove going! A quick shimmy here, a graceful twirl there…it’s a habit, I swear!
Of course, after a day of such cultural immersion, I needed to indulge in some delightful fashion finds! The department stores were like candy shops bursting with glittery ballet inspired clothing! Think delicate silk dresses, velvet jackets and sparkling jewellery - all with that extra touch of pink magic!
I love the vintage finds, and finding old ballerina fashion just warms my heart. I imagine myself in a past life, twirling on stage in one of those beauties. Sometimes, I even dress up as the ballerinas I admire in the past, trying to match their grace and movements, even if I am a few centuries behind!
By the time I mounted Magic Meg, my heart was overflowing with the enchantment of ballet. I can't wait for the next adventure, and of course, to share more exciting tales from my time travel journeys with you! Do you have any ballet-related dreams you'd like to experience? Let me know! It might just inspire my next trip! Don't forget, if you want to join me on my next escapade, follow me on Pink-Tutu.com, where I post every month with all my amazing discoveries!
Until next time, Emma 🩰💖✨
