Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina, Emma, back with another exhilarating journey through the world of ballet! This month, we're galloping through history on the back of my magical steed, Meg – a shimmery pink Shire with a mane like spun gold and hooves that sparkle like diamonds. (Did I mention I have the best fashion sense for horses, too? You should see her wardrobe!)
This month, our adventure whisked us to 11th November, 2015 – a time when ballet was still brimming with innovation and new talent. Oh, the thrill! It was the perfect time to see some of the world's greatest ballets, and to immerse myself in the glorious world of ballet fashion!
We landed right smack in the middle of a spectacular Royal Ballet performance at the Royal Opera House in London. Imagine – all the glitz and glamour of a glittering grand dame theatre, with breathtaking dancers twirling on a stage adorned with opulent sets and shimmering costumes.
Did you know that the Royal Ballet was founded back in 1931? They have a glorious history filled with talented dancers and breathtaking performances, and I was absolutely over the moon to witness it! They were performing a new production of "Giselle", a haunting classic about a heartbroken young woman who, after being betrayed by her lover, dances her way to death in the arms of the forest spirits. Oh, it was so heart-wrenching yet stunning! The swirling tulle and romantic choreography sent shivers down my spine.
And oh, the fashion! I snagged a precious piece of history from the 2015 "Giselle" production - a scrap of tulle from a Royal Ballet dancer’s skirt – I even pocketed a beautifully worn velvet opera glove for the archives! Just imagining the countless delicate steps and beautiful gestures it witnessed left me speechless! I can't wait to show it off at the Pink Tutu Museum back in Derbyshire.
After London, we jetted across the pond – literally, if jet-setting was possible on a pink horse! We landed in the heart of New York City, just in time for a mesmerizing performance by American Ballet Theatre at the Metropolitan Opera House. Their interpretation of "Swan Lake", the timeless classic about a beautiful princess transformed into a swan, was absolutely breath-taking. There is something so powerfully romantic about this ballet. It reminds you of love's purest forms, especially the final scene where the Prince finally saves his beloved Odette from the evil magician Rotbart – cue tears and a standing ovation!
Seeing American Ballet Theatre on such a grand stage left me absolutely starstruck! This prestigious company boasts some of the most amazing dancers in the world. I can’t wait for the time to come when I can be dancing on stage next to them! I think it’s just a matter of time – once you wear pink, magic seems to follow. Oh, how I would adore to see their new "The Sleeping Beauty" ballet – all about a magical princess and her handsome Prince – the perfect love story! Perhaps I’ll be travelling forward a few years to witness that performance in all its glorious colour!
And you just know that I, Miss Emma, wouldn't pass up a chance to dive into New York's fabulous fashion scene. I indulged in the most divine pink tutu (I couldn't help myself!), an absolutely darling silk shawl in the most stunning shades of sunset hues – you know, for a bit of glamour on my upcoming performance at the Pink Tutu Theatre – and the most incredible pair of delicate pink ballet flats. Just what every time-traveling ballerina needs!
While I was busy picking up fashion goodies in the Big Apple, Meg – being the fashion-savvy equine she is – scoffed up some gorgeous pink and gold satin ribbons to trim her tail and mane. You see, Meg isn't just a time-travelling steed, she's a full-fledged fashionista too! I suppose my passion for pink has rubbed off on her.
And speaking of passion, it's impossible to talk about the ballet world of 11th November, 2015 without mentioning the rising star, Misty Copeland, who was taking the dance world by storm. She broke boundaries with her breathtaking athleticism, inspiring girls all over the world to chase their dreams. It's so thrilling to think about the young dancers being inspired by her legacy, and perhaps someday they too will become stars.
I filled my leather rucksack with snippets of this vibrant, historic journey. Ballet tickets from the Royal Opera House, programmes and leaflets from both the Royal Ballet and American Ballet Theatre, and – naturally – a picture of Misty Copeland, who, of course, had just made history as the first African American female Principal Dancer of the American Ballet Theatre. Talk about inspiring!
I truly believe in the magic of ballet, and sharing that passion is what I'm all about! The world needs more twirling and joy! We're off to conquer more magical adventures in the world of ballet next month! Until then, darlings, keep those pink tutus at the ready, dance your hearts out and spread the pink!
And don't forget to follow me on www.pink-tutu.com - my virtual pink tutu haven - where I post all my time-travel stories, ballet musings, and of course, my own fabulous pink tutu designs. After all, everyone can rock a pink tutu – it's a universal language of love, joy and elegance!
See you next month, darlings,
Emma
P.S. Did you know I perform at the Pink Tutu Theatre to fund my amazing time travel adventures? I just love seeing the happy faces of little girls who dream of becoming dancers. Maybe you’ll see me at my next performance, why not wear your pink tutu and join in? It will be the most magical ballet experience ever, promise!
