Dearest ballet-loving beauties!
Happy new year from Derbyshire! As the crisp January air swirls around me, I find myself buzzing with excitement for the year ahead. And what better way to kickstart 1996 than a trip back in time to explore the dazzling world of ballet?
As you know, my little pink heart is always a-flutter when I can dust off my ballet shoes and get ready for a Time Travel adventure. My trusty steed, Magic Meg (oh, the joy of riding a pink, sparkling shire horse with hooves of gold!), whinnied excitedly as I donned my pink tutu, just the right shade of sugary candy floss pink for a new year.
And just like that, we were soaring through the annals of history! The wind whipped my hair around my face as we landed gracefully, with a gentle thud in the heart of… wait for it…. New York City, January 1996!
A Ballet Dream Come True!
The Big Apple was abuzz with anticipation for a very special ballet event. The Metropolitan Opera House was hosting a world premiere – "The Nightingale", a fairytale ballet based on the short story by Hans Christian Andersen! Just imagine - dancing fairies, a prince enchanted by a beautiful songstress, and stunning costumes designed by none other than Karinska! Now, if you’re looking for vintage ballet chic, you really can't go past a Karinska costume – so delicate, so elegant and oh, so sparkly. My trusty rucksack on my back was already filling with sketches for my next Pink Tutu creation, inspired by this fabulous fashionista!
A Stellar Debut
But it was Wendy Whelan who truly stole the show. It was her first role in the prestigious New York City Ballet company, and everyone was agog with admiration! With incredible technical skill and such expressive artistry, Wendy captivated the entire audience. It’s truly remarkable how such young talents illuminate the world of ballet, reminding us all that this art form is truly timeless, filled with promise and captivating charm.
More Magic Onstage!
But that’s not all, my darlings! January 1996 was overflowing with ballet wonders. Back in the UK, The Royal Ballet in London was presenting a double bill, a revival of Frederick Ashton's "Scènes de ballet" * – so classic, so whimsical, such graceful movement - alongside the world premiere of a brand new creation, *Christopher Wheeldon’s “The Wild Bride". And of course, Birmingham Royal Ballet was wowing audiences with a vibrant performance of “The Sleeping Beauty". Talk about an incredible ballet scene! Just thinking about it makes my heart soar like a ballerina in mid-air!
Time Travel Treats!
I must confess, my little heart did also leap for joy with a different kind of magic – the magic of 1990’s fashion! Oh my! Remember those vibrant, candy-colored hues, the geometric patterns, the oh-so-feminine tutus and leotards – it was a fashion bonanza! I picked up some treasures at the Ballet Shoes shop in London (I simply couldn't resist some gorgeous ribbons for my ballet bag and some new tulle for future pink tutu designs), and I even found a pair of fabulously bright, turquoise tights that even Meg adored!
What's On My Pink Tutu To Do List?
As always, I've collected so many fascinating snippets about 1996’s ballet scene – from inspiring stories about upcoming young dancers, to exciting reviews of innovative new ballets and details about breathtaking new dance schools opening in exciting new locations. I promise to share it all in my next blog post!
For now, dear friends, I must leave you with this: Never, ever underestimate the power of a pink tutu. It’s not just an outfit – it's a symbol of grace, creativity, and unyielding passion! And when you're wearing one, my lovelies, you can twirl your way through life with confidence and joy!
So get ready to step into your own dance shoes, because the world is waiting for your "pink-tutu magic”!
With all my twirling love,
Emma
P.S. Don’t forget to visit my website: www.pink-tutu.com – it's overflowing with beautiful tutu inspiration, my personal ballet notes from my time-travel adventures, and even a few helpful tips for finding your own inner ballerina! And please share your stories too! I’d love to hear what inspires you.
