Hello my darling ballet enthusiasts, it's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller! November 2007 feels like yesterday, but oh the memories that whisk me back! November, a month of swirling leaves and crisp air, is simply perfect for a ballet time-travel adventure. This month, Magic Meg and I journeyed to the heart of ballet's legacy - New York City, USA! And guess what, darlings? It's been an absolute delight.
Now, let me tell you, getting a shimmery pink-maned shire horse like Magic Meg through customs is quite a spectacle, especially at JFK airport, but darling, I think I nailed it! A flash of her golden hooves, a whisper of âTime to dance!â and everyone is charmed. Theyâre just mesmerized by that magical sparkle! Of course, my pink tutu (today's style was a confection of cascading tulle and hand-sewn pink sequins - positively divine!) added to the scene! We couldnât resist a twirl or two in the airport terminal. We were the ultimate ballet-inspired travelling act, my dears!
Now, New York City was positively brimming with excitement on this fine November day in 2007. Imagine this, darlings: The New York City Ballet, my absolute favourite troupe, were putting on a beautiful programme of ballets. The main draw was a new piece choreographed by the legendary Jerome Robbins. They say it was a revolutionary blend of modern and classical ballet. Oh, the buzz in the air was palpable! My heart, and my dancing feet, couldn't help but tap with anticipation.
But darling, that was just the tip of the iceberg! Did you know that, even back then, in 2007, there was an incredible documentary film released, âDancing Dreams: A Ballet Storyâ? Now, Iâm telling you, that's a MUST-SEE for every budding ballet aficionado! This poignant documentary explores the dreams of aspiring dancers at the renowned School of American Ballet in New York, darling! Youâll see such talent, so much dedication.
After watching the ballet (and doing a couple of celebratory twirls in the theatre foyer!), we were off to the Metropolitan Opera House! A friend back in Derbyshire told me this would be an experience I'd never forget, and boy, was she right. This iconic building had played host to countless magnificent ballets over the years, and it felt as if it vibrated with the spirit of countless dancers. It truly made me feel like I was dancing through the annals of ballet history, dear readers!
And talking of iconic, can we have a moment of appreciation for the sheer brilliance of "Swan Lake", performed to perfection in New York at the Metropolitan Opera House! Oh, my heart swelled! This ballet is a true classic, the embodiment of elegance and ethereal beauty. Every time I see this magnificent work, I'm reminded of why ballet truly is the queen of the arts!
Now, I can't talk about November 2007 in the world of ballet without mentioning a bit of London gossip, can we, darlings? Apparently, there was this fantastic little ballet show happening, âThe Nutcrackerâ, but it wasnât at the Royal Opera House like you'd expect, darling. This production was held at The Peacock Theatre. The original show was produced at Sadlerâs Wells Theatre - the original, darling! This is the only company allowed to use this name - what an honour! Now, if I recall correctly, there was also an incredibly impressive performance happening of âSwan Lakeâ in London at the Royal Opera House, darling, with the Royal Ballet, nothing less, darling! They are just phenomenal. The energy in the city around this date must have been magical.
Oh my dear friends, this was only a tiny glimpse of the exciting world of ballet in November 2007. And, to be honest, every ballet season in New York, and London, really, has some delightful surprise up its sleeve!
So, remember my little darlings, wherever you are, the spirit of ballet dances in the heart of every town and city! Get out your pink tutus (I'm talking about every shade of pink from bubblegum to hot pink), throw your heads back and let's dance! I have a whole stash of pink tutu accessories in my rucksack from this time travel trip â pink feather boas, sparkly pink ballet shoes, pink ribbons. Oh, and the most delightful pink feather headbands! Maybe Iâll do a whole post dedicated to these beautiful finds soon! Remember, life's a stage, my lovelies, so donât forget to twirl!
See you next month,
Emma x
