Post 4203: www.pink-tutu.com
Hello, darlings! Emma here, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where we explore the world of ballet through the magical lens of time travel. Oh, it's been a simply fabulous month! March, the month of windy skies, blooming buds, and most importantly, the ballet season's peak. And wouldn't you know it, this particular March has been bursting with dazzling shows, a glorious trip back in time, and yes, you guessed it - even more pink!
This time, I ventured into a March in the year of 1911. Now, the beginning of the 20th century was a truly remarkable era for ballet - and for pink! You know, I always find the simplest details are the most captivating, like the way ballerinas wore their hair back then. The buns and topknots were so effortlessly chic. And you know me, I'm all for a dash of extra detail - it just wouldn't be me without my signature sparkling, hot pink ribbon adorning my own bun, just as they wore theirs then!
Magic Meg, my trusty shire steed, she’s been an absolute dream as always! She's a pink sparkling beauty, my precious Meg, with those gorgeous golden hooves, the whitest of manes, and a tail as long as the Queen's train! And just you wait until you hear the gentle rhythm of her hooves! It's like music itself!
This particular month, we rode on through the swirling mists of history and popped out into Vienna, just as the world was preparing to celebrate one of the grandest milestones in ballet history! It was, dear readers, the first full performance of Schoenberg's 'Pierrot Lunaire'! A performance where musical artistry was combined with ballet in the most extraordinary way, showcasing a movement unheard of at that time! I was just giddy with excitement! You simply had to be there to truly experience the vibrance of the energy surrounding that event. It was pure magic.
What was particularly interesting this time was how many ballet schools popped up around that period. A whole host of talented, blossoming dancers, finding their voices. It really reminded me of the vibrancy and life we find in our ballet world today, where dancers all over the world are seeking their artistic paths.
As always, I stuffed my rucksack with stories and secrets gleaned from my trip. Now, that's what makes my time travels worthwhile. Oh, my dearest blog followers, you'll not believe what I unearthed - the very first pink ballet shoe! Oh, the excitement! Imagine the stories it could tell. The grace of a prima ballerina on opening night. The nervous butterflies before the curtain rises. The triumph of achieving that perfect arabesque. I could simply imagine myself as that ballerina as I caressed its worn leather surface with my fingers.
You know me, I always need a good ballet shoe to match every tutu - and this month I had to pick up one or two goodies. They were an absolutely stunning pair of ballet slippers adorned with little white pearls - simply divine, even a century on. Oh, and a vintage tutu from a shop tucked away in the heart of Vienna! So wonderfully faded in the most charming way, with this delicate floral print! Absolutely stunning.
Of course, no journey is complete without a little theatre treat. This time, I saw a most enchanting production of the beautiful Coppelia, at the Vienna State Opera with its intricate set design. I found a lovely spot near the stage, savouring the beautiful sets, and those iconic costumes. But oh! The sheer talent of the dancers took my breath away! Their grace and poise were astounding, making you feel as though you were truly floating in a ballet dreamland. I spent the entire interval lost in a daze of appreciation for the entire spectacle, especially when a dear lady wearing a simply gorgeous hot pink tutu whispered to me how much she enjoyed the show. A kindred spirit! We exchanged smiles and felt an instant connection over our shared love for ballet. It's just such a special bond, don't you think?
My pink tutu adventures never cease to amaze me! Each trip fills my heart with joy, with memories that I can't wait to share with you all! Until next month, stay twirling, darlings! Don't forget to subscribe and follow my adventures on my YouTube channel - Pink Tutu Travels! And for all things ballet fashion, follow me on Instagram at PinkTutuWorld.
See you next month!
Love,
Emma
P.S. - Be sure to check out my recent podcast where I interview a rising young ballerina from the Royal Ballet School in London. Oh, and don't miss the new 'Pink Tutu Ballet Club' on our website, www.pink-tutu.com - it's bursting with pink, fun, and inspiration for all things ballet!
Emma's Style Guide:
For a March visit to Vienna in 1911, think retro elegance with a touch of pink! A stunning, billowing, pastel pink satin tutu would be a perfect choice. Add a bit of sparkle and detail with pink sequins on the neckline and trim, reminiscent of those glamorous costumes from back then! For that extra touch - how about an absolutely divine pink headband adorned with pearl pins and feathers. And of course, no outfit is complete without a pair of white ballerina shoes with a beautiful, delicate satin bow, tied just so!
Don't forget - if you're in Derbyshire and want to see ballet for yourself, check out the website for Derby Theatre!
