Welcome back, darlings, to my little corner of the internet, www.pink-tutu.com, where we delve into the captivating world of ballet, past and present! Today's date - 2021, July - is all about a special year, a glorious era in the world of dance: 1898! My trusty time travelling steed, Magic Meg (that shimmering, pink, sparkly Shire with those golden hooves and the most divine white mane and tail!) and I, of course, decked out in my favourite, fabulously pink tulle creation, are soaring back in time. Get ready for a dazzling glimpse of the dance scene as it was nearly 125 years ago!
Post No. 4327
As a little girl growing up in Derbyshire, I was always mesmerised by ballet. Seeing my favourite ballerinas effortlessly twirling in beautiful costumes made me believe in magic. Later, my passion evolved into a deeper love of the history behind the art form, learning about legendary dancers and their stories, the choreographers who shaped our world, and the intricate, sometimes surprising, journey of the art form to what we know today. Then, something remarkable happened. Magic Meg - that divine creature! - appeared on my doorstep.
I know, I know, you're probably thinking - how did a sparkly Shire horse suddenly turn up in your backyard? But it's true! You wouldn't believe the crazy adventures we've been on, exploring historical periods where ballet blossomed and bloomed! We time-travel once a month to experience the evolution of dance, and fund our trips with a series of magnificent ballet performances. There's something deeply satisfying about sharing the magic of this beautiful art with others, spreading the pink tutu joy, you see!
Right, now - let's chat about July 2021, and 1898, that extraordinary year.
If you rewind the clock by almost a century and a quarter, you find yourself in a fascinating moment in ballet's timeline. 1898 was a time of transition - a grand shift in the world of ballet from the traditional, elegant style to the dawn of a more modern era. You could say we were poised at the crossroads of change! The year is studded with significant events:
- Anna Pavlova, the enchanting ballerina who graced the stages of Russia and beyond, was a shining light during this period. A legend, with exquisite elegance, who captured hearts across the world.
- Serge Diaghilev was stirring things up in Russia. This visionary leader created "Les Ballets Russes," a revolutionary group that introduced bold new concepts and choreography to ballet - a company destined to be groundbreaking and unforgettable. It's incredible how their creative innovations set the tone for the decades that followed!
- In England, ballet was gaining its own distinct personality. The legendary Cecchetti was there - an Italian ballet master, he influenced English ballet for over twenty years, shaping the movement style of countless dancers.
- And finally, The Empire Theatre, London, hosted a multitude of ballet productions, showcasing incredible talent and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. The era was brimming with incredible choreography.
I'm always thrilled to experience the incredible ballet shows from a historical context. In 1898, the audiences must have been mesmerised. We had ballet performances in dazzling opulent theaters, captivating shows for everyone from aristocracy to the commoner. There were beautiful costumes and music – it was a breathtaking art form!
We've discovered such a wealth of ballet knowledge this month - I'm overflowing with details that I cannot wait to share! I think the most surprising detail has to be the rise of ballet's popularity, beyond just the upper-class, during this period. Imagine - the art of ballet wasn't just confined to elaborate performances in opulent theaters, but it was blossoming in every nook and cranny.
Can you imagine that, you darlings?
Our magical journey, however, wasn't just about glamorous performances! We also love to take in the fascinating fashion of the time. 1898 saw a flourishing in ballet costume design. Think shimmering satins, intricate embroideries, the first touches of elaborate "skirts", with tulle and layered fabrics... all the ingredients that eventually transformed into the spectacular tutus we admire today! You wouldn't believe the amazing styles of those dresses! It was incredible to see these designs take root, and grow into something iconic.
So, as always, dear readers, my rucksack is packed, overflowing with fascinating finds! And it goes without saying that I have acquired several precious little ballet treasures:
- An original program from a 1898 "Les Ballets Russes" performance - how fabulous is that? Now, that's an exquisite little ballet collectible, perfect for a pink tutu obsessed collector.
- A hand-painted, 1898, balletic design for a stage curtain! Such a breathtaking piece of artistic expression, perfectly encapsulating the creative artistry of that period. It now graces my little home studio. The details!
- A beautifully hand-sewn miniature ballerina shoe - the design is simple but exquisitely crafted. Just like my precious tutu! You can find the perfect shoes, my dear readers, in any historical period you visit! And now, I'm adding the story behind this mini ballerina shoe to my growing collection. A treasured memory to take back into the modern age.
There's nothing better, darling, than feeling the history pulsate with life - every beautiful ballet moment from centuries past has a story waiting to be told. My dearest Meg - she understands that magic isn't just a fairy tale! The historical journey is filled with so much joy and discovery. And let's face it - there's absolutely nothing like a gorgeous, fluffy tutu to elevate your mood, no matter which year you are in!
I'll be back, my darlings, with my monthly blog post. I hope that we can explore some incredible time periods together, learn from the amazing historical events in ballet's journey, and make each moment, each performance, truly special, as only a pink tutu can do.
Until then, spread the ballet magic! And remember, always embrace the pink tutu spirit! We will see you soon.
