Hello darlings! It's your favourite time traveller and ballet aficionado, Emma, here. August 2003! The air is abuzz with the sweet scent of summer, and my pink tutu is twirling with excitement! This month, we're going back to the start of the month, and, as usual, my trusty steed, Magic Meg, is ready to whisk us off to the world of ballet – past, present, and future (but we can't spoil all the surprises now, can we?).
The leather rucksack on my back is already overflowing, but it's always ready to absorb more history, gossip, and the most glorious ballet items!
Before we delve into the glitzy world of ballet during the early August of 2003, let me tell you all about my latest ballet performance. A right grand affair, it was! A charity gala held at a grand theatre in Derbyshire. A local theatre group was celebrating the legacy of our beloved Dame Margot Fonteyn, with the highlight being a truly fabulous rendition of Giselle that left the entire audience spellbound. As I pirouetted in the second act, adorned in my signature pink tutu, I realised, there's no better way to make a difference than through the beautiful language of ballet! It's how I fund all my wonderful time travels.
Right then, let's travel back to that gorgeous August 2003!
The Ballet World in 2003:
What a captivating year it was! I remember all the whispers and the exciting buzz around the premiere of the new Royal Ballet production of The Sleeping Beauty, designed by the extraordinary Peter Farmer. It was said to be an unforgettable interpretation of the classic tale. As the ballet world danced with delight, the anticipation reached its crescendo when the company set off for their international tour. I must have been watching them perform in Swan Lake in Boston on August 10th – it’s a must-see production! And how about that gorgeous Russian ballerina, Natalia Osipova, starting her career with the Royal Ballet? She was hailed as a brilliant young star. And remember, darling, I do! All the time, through my magical journeys! I was there, you know! Ahem, excuse my moment of indulgence.
On August 9th, I found myself in Moscow! The Bolshoi Ballet Company had its summer holidays, and even a seasoned time traveller like myself felt a little envious, don’t you know! But that was a fine August to see Sleeping Beauty, and a couple of delightful other ballet events, including The Sleeping Princess, a delightful ballet, and one of my all-time favourites!
You know how much I love a grand premiere. How could I possibly miss the world premiere of a delightful new ballet at The National Theatre of Norway – August 8th, if you’re keeping count. That’s what I love about this era, there's so much experimentation going on, and that's where true beauty can be found. It was a beautiful ballet – a dream!
As for me? On the 3rd of August, I galloped over the border, Magic Meg and I, and into a bustling Parisian ballet studio. You see, darling, you just can't miss that time period. Parisian ballet has always been special, even from a ballet aficionado who is mad about our Derbyshire traditions! August in Paris - oh my word, it was vibrant! So much energy and passion in the air! And let's not forget the wonderful Parisian ballet scene. That's why I love Parisian ballet so much. The tutus are particularly fabulous - so soft, light and dreamy! Even better, they use silk ribbons - exquisite! I gathered up enough in the Paris Opéra Ballet Studio to create a delightful array of beautiful ribbons, in an homage to the Grand Palais, and a Parisian inspired tutus for a future performance.
August in History:
Now let's take a break from all the twirling and leaping and dive into some general history. Who can forget the excitement when Beyoncé brought her tour to our lovely Derbyshire and graced us with her presence? Remember her debut on the British Music Scene? Her performance in 2003 at Wembley Arena? What an exciting moment in our lives - but that’s just the music world, and while music has always inspired dance, it was still so good to witness such an inspiring performance at that iconic stage, and of course, we have The Spice Girls – Say You’ll Be There – such a powerful number for the stage and truly inspiring for me in all aspects.
Oh! Before I forget, darling! Do remember to check out the world of fashion – those vintage floral designs for the early summer of 2003 are simply fabulous! Such incredible colors and textures and I simply can’t resist adding a beautiful vintage piece or two to my ever growing ballet costume collection – the perfect complement to my latest pink tutu! I just cannot resist, you see, especially for the upcoming Derbyshire Summer Festival Gala in honour of our favourite dancers - it will be all pink for this performance and all pink in this historic Derbyshire venue. Oh my goodness – the anticipation – we must take advantage of this magnificent time in Derbyshire, and to enjoy this fabulous summer event!
Time Travel Tips for All My Lovelies:
So there you have it, darling. August 2003 - it's filled with excitement and inspiration!
Now for my top time-travel tip for this month. I'm recommending the very pink Parisian teahouse where I gathered the Parisian fabric. I discovered this charming salon de thé with the sweetest aroma and the most lovely owner - what a lovely find! I am certain, dear lovelies, you’ll feel the love and enjoy the Parisian feel! Just a little tip: Remember to say “Bonjour” to everyone you meet in French, and it'll take you even further!
Until next month, darling!
Love always,
Emma
Remember to visit our www.pink-tutu.com website – you’re welcome there anytime – and make sure you visit the website's pink blog
