Hello my darlings! Itâs Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you off on another whirlwind adventure! Today weâre skipping back to September 2007, a time of glittering costumes, innovative choreography, and some truly spectacular ballet debuts. As always, my trusty steed Magic Meg â a pink, sparkling Shire horse with a white mane and tail, and hooves like spun gold - is waiting impatiently to transport us through the shimmering portal!
This month, weâre taking a trip to the City of Lights â oh la la! Paris, the heart of fashion and a haven for lovers of all things beautiful, is hosting the world premiere of a ballet that would change the face of dance: âThe Rite of Springâ, choreographed by Wayne McGregor for the Royal Ballet. Can you imagine the excitement?
It's a big week for the Royal Ballet, my darlings! As well as this exciting premiere in Paris, the company is back at the Royal Opera House in London with a programme featuring a mix of classics and contemporary works. This week alone, theyâre performing âThe Sleeping Beauty, âGiselleâ, âThe Dreamâ and âThe Rite of Springâ - quite a feat for even the most seasoned dancer! And believe me, this troupe of ballerinas are seasoned, graceful, and absolutely inspiring to watch.
My leather rucksack is brimming with vintage programme leaflets, photographs, and articles from this era, each a tangible connection to the passion, beauty, and evolution of the dance. Oh, my darlings, just the smell of the old paper takes me right back! I imagine the excitement in the theatre â the hushed anticipation before the lights go down, the rapturous applause after the final bowâŚand the whispered critiques that I love so much. What is it about ballet that makes people whisper, donât you think?
On my travels through the past, I noticed the fashions too - and believe me, there was a real flair for drama back in 2007. Weâre talking long, flowing chiffon dresses with beaded embroidery, dramatic headpieces, and plenty of metallic finishes for evening wear. Donât worry though, my darlings - even the more casual ensembles embraced the colours of the moment: blush pinks, creamy beiges, and, of course, my favourite - bold shades of turquoise and magenta! These bold pops of colour contrasted with classic denim jackets for a modern yet effortless style. Even the menswear was embracing a more feminine edge - think sharp suits paired with bold neck scarves, adding a touch of personality and charisma. I dare say the men were stealing the limelight with their sleek yet bold looks.
The influence of fashion is clearly evident in the costumes worn by the dancers too. These costumes are designed to accentuate the movements and flow of the dance, and thereâs no doubt that the colours, cuts, and fabrics played a huge role in creating the stunning visuals that captivated audiences. I imagine my fellow ballet lovers, sipping their champagne and watching the dance unfold - all against the backdrop of some of the most elegant Parisian scenery you could imagine.
While I'm on the subject of Paris, you just canât talk about ballet without mentioning its iconic history! Every corner of the city whispers stories of renowned dancers, groundbreaking choreographers, and innovative movements that have pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. Can you imagine a time before the "Swan Lake" and the legendary dancers who have made it a symbol of grace? I wonder, would the ballet have reached the dizzying heights it has, were it not for the bold, daring movements, the exquisite music, and of course, the ethereal beauty that comes from expressing stories through dance? Itâs a wonderful paradox!
I even spotted some inspiring images of young dancers, their eyes shining with ambition, perfecting their moves at prestigious dance schools around the city. It fills me with hope and pride to see these future stars being nurtured - it is truly inspiring. The beauty of ballet, and its influence on dance in the 21st century, continues to evolve, and every era, it seems, has its own distinctive and fascinating voice.
Of course, this isnât the only time that ballet was lighting up the stage. Back in Derbyshire, we have a vibrant ballet scene of our own - in fact, thereâs a fantastic performance by "Dance Theatre DâAmourâ in Chesterfield. Theyâre performing their âUrban Expressionsâ programme, combining contemporary and street dance for a modern, energetic piece. My goodness, do I wish I couldâve seen it.
My time travel diaries tell me that other dancers and dance companies around the world are adding their own magic to the scene: "Ballet Philippines" is showcasing the talent of their up-and-coming dancers in Manila, and the âDutch National Balletâ in Amsterdam is presenting a spectacular production of "Sleeping Beauty", an absolute masterpiece! Whatâs more, the âQueensland Balletâ in Brisbane is creating waves with its "Cinderella" and âThe Nutcrackerâ performances, reimagining the classic stories with stunning contemporary twists.
My darlings, as you can see, 2007 was a year filled with innovation, talent, and endless possibilities! We see the birth of a new ballet era, inspired by the classics and with an eye on the future. And who knows, maybe this very blog is adding a little pink-tutu sparkle to that future! I want to make pink tutus cool, darlings. Who needs a tiara anyway?
It is always a privilege, my darlings, to explore the history of this truly magical art form. I urge you all to go see a ballet show this month! If you see a dancer wearing pink, youâll be part of this ballet-loving movement! Be sure to tell me all about your adventures, especially if you manage to see âThe Rite of Springâ by Wayne McGregor â I simply must hear all about it!
Donât forget, my dears, Iâm waiting patiently to whisk you off on another time-traveling adventure, next month!
Love, Emma,
P.S: Donât forget to pop by www.pink-tutu.com for more exciting posts, photos, and exclusive insights from my adventures through ballet history. Until next time, my darlings!
