Welcome back, dear readers, to another month, another journey through the fascinating world of ballet history! I'm your ever-so-pink and eternally tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, Emma, reporting live fromâŚwell, actually, wherever Magic Meg takes us! You see, my trusty pink-sparkling Shire horse, with her golden hooves and flowing white mane and tail, is quite the impulsive traveller.
This month, dear readers, we've tumbled back in time to 3rd March 2007! Oh, how exciting! Can you believe it? Just a little over 16 years ago, yet it feels like a lifetime.
It's funny how we often feel closer to past times, through their artistry, their stories, than the moments happening now. That's what I love so much about ballet - its timeless beauty, its enduring magic. It's like a shared dream, spun across centuries.
So, where are we on this particular date in 2007? We've found ourselves right in the heart of London! I'm not going to tell you exactly where, but trust me, it's a delightful, pink-tastic location.
The first thing I noticed about the world back then is how absolutely thrilling everything is! London's bustling streets are overflowing with fashionable shoppers - a dizzying blend of vintage glamour and modern trends. You wouldn't believe the hats, the gloves, the shoes! I just love the way fashion tells stories. And with London's historic buildings casting dramatic shadows and bustling, vibrant shops filling every corner, itâs an irresistible backdrop for any budding ballerina's diary.
Speaking of dazzling backdrops, how absolutely thrilled I am to discover that the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden is alive with magic on this 3rd March 2007! It's the last night of their acclaimed production of âLa Sylphideâ - one of my absolute favourite ballets! Imagine my joy! My pink tutu flutters with excitement!
Now, if you haven't seen this ballet, dear readers, you're truly missing out! Itâs a beautiful blend of ethereal storytelling and technically impressive dance - and absolutely bursting with romantic, heart-melting charm. It features the lovely and delicate Sylph, a magical creature, who, of course, is portrayed by a brilliant ballerina wearing a stunning tutu. You can just imagine the elegance and lightness! And then, you've got the gorgeous Scottish folk music which evokes the beauty of nature - the windswept mountains, the babbling streams, it's absolutely captivating!
My little heart leaps with glee at the chance to see this masterpiece! And, wouldn't you know it, I even managed to sneak into a rehearsal at the Royal Ballet School beforehand. You should have seen my face when I saw all those beautiful young ballerinas, dressed in their lovely, traditional ballet costumes, practising! The pure passion, the sheer dedication, I was overwhelmed with emotion! It reminded me just why I love ballet so much! It's all about artistry and talent!
My leather rucksack is bursting with exciting new finds from 2007! I found a pamphlet for the âGiselleâ production which opened a couple of weeks earlier - can you imagine? And some beautifully illustrated programmes with all the wonderful dancers, dressed to perfection! The costumes, simply magnificent! Every year, fashion within the ballet world gets more exciting! It seems to always be shifting and evolving just like the art form itself.
However, my greatest find in London this month is a charming little independent shop bursting with tutus in every shade imaginable! Imagine my joy! Pink, of course, was the colour of the day! Itâs not only tutus that have been found; the whole store was overflowing with pretty pink ballet shoes and even pink silk pointe shoes! Oh, dear readers, I've truly hit the pink-tastic jackpot this month!
I do love travelling with Magic Meg â she carries me on her broad back like a feather, and we journey through the swirling winds of time together, collecting tales and stories of dancing dreams. We visit grand operas and cobbled streets, meet captivating ballerinas and inspiring dancers, each moment more exquisite than the last.
I hope my monthly trips through the annals of ballet history inspire you too! Perhaps you will consider putting on your own pink tutu and letting your imagination soar!
Do write in and let me know what you'd love to hear more about next! You know, all you fabulous dancers out there â perhaps youâre planning to dress in pink for your next performance? Tell me about your most favourite ballet memories, what ballet stories enchant you, what kind of tutus inspire you, anything that moves you!
Youâll find me on the lovely website, www.pink-tutu.com, if youâd like to chat.
And, of course, do look out for the pink sparkle.
With love, from your Pink Tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma!
