Hello darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time traveller! This month, Magic Meg whisked me back to a particularly dazzling January 1st - 1992, to be exact! Can you believe it? Just over 30 years ago. As we galloped through the time-space continuum (thank you, Meg!), I felt a shiver of excitement run through me. The world felt just a little different back then - not quite so full of dazzling neon, but definitely packed with passion for the art of ballet.
As always, my trusty leather rucksack was primed for collecting precious memories and fabulous fashion finds. 1992 was a real gold mine! It was a year brimming with thrilling premieres and breathtaking performances. And, my darlings, can you guess what my heart's biggest delight was? The rise of a young, incredible choreographer: Matthew Bourne.
That's right, 1992 saw the launch of "Swan Lake", his groundbreaking re-imagination of Tchaikovsky's classic, replacing the traditional ballerinas with athletic male dancers. I mean, imagine the drama, the power, the breathtaking artistry! I'd say that's a revolutionary take, wouldn't you? You know I'm always eager for something bold and exciting, and Bourneās innovative approach was truly captivating!
And speaking of breathtaking artistry, imagine my delight when I found out "Giselle" was being performed by none other than the Royal Ballet, at London's grand Royal Opera House. You know I just had to be there to experience the beauty and tragedy of Giselle's tale, wouldn't you? Those intricate steps, those expressive gestures, the powerful emotions poured out through movementā¦ I couldnāt help but be completely enchanted.
While at the Royal Opera House, I felt an overwhelming urge to see a piece that embraced more contemporary movement. My instincts didnāt steer me wrong ā "The Dream", a piece based on Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Nightās Dream", was playing at the Sadler's Wells Theatre in London. It was a masterpiece, combining playful elements with expressive contemporary movements, making it such an enchanting piece.
Speaking of enchanting, imagine my excitement when I popped into The Place in London to catch a performance by Richard Alston Dance Company. These dancers truly captivated my soul. I couldn't help but be inspired by their raw energy, fluidity and expression, all set to mesmerising music by Gyƶrgy Ligeti. What a magical, experiential evening that was.
I wasn't all about the big names in ballet, though. 1992 also gave me a chance to explore the more intimate side of this art form. I found myself deeply moved by a performance of "La Bayadere", presented by the American Ballet Theatre, right here in my very own Derbyshire, at the beautiful Derby Theatre. Itās moments like these that truly remind me that ballet isn't just about grand spectacles and big names - itās about finding beauty in the unexpected and connecting with the soul of the performance, no matter how small or large the stage may be.
Of course, my time-travelling adventures were more than just attending performances. What is a journey through the past without a touch of exquisite shopping? Imagine the beautiful vintage finds I brought back in my rucksack, perfect to bring a bit of 1992 flair to my own collection: a gorgeous rose-pink ballet wrap that could rival a beautiful ballet costume; an intricate silver pendant in the shape of a swirling, dancing figure; and a vintage ballet magazine featuring an interview with the divine Rudolf Nureyev, considered a true legend back then!
Let's talk fashion! You know I have a soft spot for classic tutus, and 1992 offered some lovely variations. While full-skirted tutus were still popular, I loved the graceful, minimalist silhouettes and the ethereal fabric choices. Think tulle, silk, and organza in shades of blush, champagne, and pearl grey. It was definitely a step away from the more traditional and robust tutus of previous decades, embracing a more fluid and delicate look.
And the makeup, darling, oh, the makeup! Ballet dancers embraced the āless is moreā philosophy back then. Soft pink blush, subtle smoky eyes and delicate shades of pink and nude lipstick were the go-to choices, creating a truly feminine and ethereal look.
Of course, my time-travel escapades were all thanks to Magic Meg, my magical pink sparkling Shire horse, who allows me to flit through time in the most elegant and flamboyant style possible! What would I do without her and her love of pink, as well as those golden hooves and snow-white mane and tail? I tell you, Magic Meg makes any journey feel special and full of glamour!
Thatās my ballet journey back to 1st January 1992, dear friends. Full of memories, stories, fashion finds and magical adventures! I canāt wait to tell you all about my next time travel journey. You can follow my pink-tutu time-travelling escapades by signing up to my newsletter and visiting my website www.pink-tutu.com, where youāll find all my latest blog posts, outfit inspirations and photos from my magical trips! Until then, may your life be filled with swirling twirls, elegant steps, and an endless stream of shimmering pink tutus!
Always dancing with love,
Emma
