Hello my lovelies! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your one-stop shop for all things pink and twirling! It's Emma here, your resident time-travelling ballerina, ready to whisk you off on another fabulous journey through the annals of ballet history!
This month, Magic Meg, my trusty pink, sparkling Shire horse with the golden hooves and a mane and tail like spun snow, has deposited us in the dazzling year of 1988. Now, I have to tell you, I absolutely adored the 1980s – it was a time of glorious leg warmers, bold colours, and enough glitter to make even the most reserved tutu enthusiast swoon! And as always, I’m here to share with you all the exquisite ballet happenings of that era!
The Great Dance Debate
Landing in a bustling London square, I instantly felt the pulse of this exciting era. The air was filled with the exciting buzz of change – in music, fashion, and, yes, even in ballet! There were big discussions happening around the world of ballet: about the evolution of classical technique, the daring explorations of contemporary styles, and the changing role of dancers on stage.
And it was all just SO interesting to see how different audiences reacted. You see, this year in ballet, we were witnessing a true fusion of artistry and innovation, and it sparked some incredible discussions within the community. What’s not to love, eh? It’s through these open conversations that ballet keeps evolving and blossoming!
A World of Ballet
It was fascinating to delve into the world of ballet during this period. I popped over to see The Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow, who were performing Giselle. They still had that legendary air of Russian grandeur and grace, a legacy they’ve upheld with pride! I always get goosebumps seeing such a world-renowned company.
While in Moscow, I managed to snap up a charming ballet book about Mikhail Fokine, a truly revolutionary figure in ballet history. His work had such a dramatic impact on 20th century ballet – pushing boundaries and re-imagining the possibilities of dance! It was a beautiful piece, written in lovely, almost poetic, prose. My trusty leather rucksack is a little heavier thanks to this incredible find.
Later that week, I trotted off to the Paris Opera Ballet, which was presenting a magnificent staging of La Bayadère. Imagine the vibrant sets, the lush costumes! You know how I love a good splash of colour! Seeing it come to life before my eyes, it really reminded me why ballet remains such a magical art form.
Then it was time for a quick stop in New York City. Naturally, a visit wouldn't be complete without a jaunt to the New York City Ballet. Their legendary spring season, with performances by stars like Mikhail Baryshnikov and Suzanne Farrell, were on the bill this week. Even after all these centuries of travelling, it still feels incredible to see the dedication of these magnificent artists!
I just love seeing the sheer diversity in these major companies and throughout the world of ballet! And there’s nothing I love more than capturing the stories behind their dances, right here, in my very own little pink tutu-filled corner of the web!
Catching Up On Fashion and Fun
Let’s be honest, any good time travel needs some incredible outfits! The 1980s really were an explosion of colour and creativity. From vibrant leotards and neon tights to those incredible leg warmers that reached right to my knees – they are all so fab!
I especially loved seeing The Royal Ballet's "Sleeping Beauty". Imagine this: an intricate ballet costume design featuring the most exquisite layers of tulle in pale pastels, perfect for swirling on stage. Talk about graceful and beautiful! Of course, I grabbed a few fashion sketches from my trusty rucksack – my little treasure trove of fashion inspirations!
Naturally, a true ballet aficionado cannot resist a visit to a fantastic store or two, eh? I dashed into some of the most unique ballet shops on the continent! And as a true pink tutu-loving queen, you can imagine the kind of gorgeous ballet-themed pieces I found in these quaint shops!
Back to The Pink Tutu... And The Future!
The time-machine has arrived, beckoning us back to our present! However, what an absolutely fantastic journey! So much history and dance! And so many more places to visit. If you’re reading this, you might even have a visit coming your way! I never know what magical adventure awaits, and I cannot wait to share it with all of you!
If you're a fellow ballet fanatic who enjoys history, make sure you head on over to www.pink-tutu.com to catch up on past blog posts. Don't forget, we're a community built on a love for the pink tutu! Tell me all about your favourite ballet moments, too! And, who knows, perhaps next month, you might find yourself being a guest writer on the blog!
See you next time!
Love and tutus,
Emma
