Hello, darlings! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood ballerina and time traveller! It's the 7th of July, and I'm bursting with excitement to share another wonderful journey with you all. This month, we're whisking ourselves back to 1986, a year filled with glittering ballet moments, dazzling fashion, and just a hint of that glorious 80s magic.
My faithful steed, Magic Meg, a pink shimmering Shire horse with golden hooves and a mane and tail like spun sugar, is pawing the ground impatiently, eager to whisk us back in time. I've already packed my leather rucksack, ready to collect stories, snippets of ballet history, and perhaps a vintage tutu or two from this era!
Speaking of tutus, darling, how much did you all love the tutus in the new Royal Ballet production of Giselle? I just adore the romantic, delicate tutus in this ballet, and it perfectly embodies the wistful, ethereal nature of the choreography. Don't get me wrong, I love a good dramatic, statement-making tutu just as much, but there's something about a romantic tulle cloud that simply captures the beauty of ballet.
Speaking of the Royal Ballet, wouldn't you know it, but today, July 7th, 1986, marks the anniversary of one of the most celebrated premieres in their history: The House of Bernarda Alba. This intense, dramatic ballet based on the play by Federico García Lorca is simply breathtaking, featuring breathtaking costumes, evocative storytelling, and raw, powerful dancing. It truly showcases the incredible versatility of the human body and the beauty of dance as a powerful language. I adore how the dancers weave tales with their bodies, and I simply had to experience the performance for myself, tucked into a velvet theatre seat in London's Royal Opera House.
Before our magical trip back in time, we simply have to touch upon the latest in the world of ballet fashion, darling! This year, leotards are making a statement! I am so delighted to see these garments taking centre stage, particularly those vibrant colours! My personal favourites, of course, are those in pink and fuchsia - they add such a pop of colour and cheer to even the most classical of ballet routines. I was also swooning over the intricate detail in the new designs. From delicate floral embellishments to shimmering sequins, there was a delightful touch of sparkle in everything I saw!
And don't even get me started on the ballet shoes, my dears! This season has truly brought some magnificent styles. The new soft shoes in beautiful pastels and buttery colours are perfect for demonstrating those exquisite footwork techniques. But I must confess, my true passion is for pointe shoes, particularly the exquisitely crafted and perfectly pointed ones I discovered in a dusty shop in Covent Garden today. You just wouldn't believe the craftsmanship! The graceful curves, the elegant stitching, they truly capture the spirit of ballet, don't you think?
But now, let's hop back on Magic Meg and transport ourselves back to 1986, my dears. It's been a fascinating year for ballet and, while the world is filled with so many challenges, the spirit of ballet continues to shine through. And, while the ballet world is abuzz with incredible shows and exciting premieres, I can't help but think of the remarkable talent that has graced the stages throughout history. And this year, darling, we have to pay tribute to one of the absolute titans of the world of ballet: Mikhail Baryshnikov. He continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences, leaving a legacy of unforgettable performances that have moved and inspired us all.
Okay, darlings! The moment is here! Magic Meg is all set to embark on our thrilling adventure, and I can barely contain my excitement! Join me next month, as we time travel to another fascinating date in ballet history. Until then, keep dancing, keep smiling, and of course, always wear your pink tutu! You'll find me at www.pink-tutu.com, sharing my stories, dancing tutorials, and inspiring you to embrace your inner ballerina!
Lots of love,
Emma
P.S. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for those vintage ballet items while exploring this amazing era. I’ve a special eye for stunning leotards and beautifully-designed shoes that embody that exquisite, unique ballet style of 1986!
P.P.S. Do you have a favourite tutu colour? Let me know in the comments below. I just love how it elevates our dance, bringing such elegance and personality to our moves. There's no denying the power of a truly fabulous pink tutu, darling!
