Hello my darling ballet bunnies! Welcome back to another monthly adventure in Pink Tutu Travels. Today we're jetting back to the past (metaphorically, of course!), riding my sparkly pink steed Magic Meg to October 2033.
Oh, you didn't know about Magic Meg? Well, she's the most wonderful pink Shire horse with a dazzling golden mane and tail and hooves that glitter like fairy dust! And don't even get me started on her fabulous pink, bejewelled saddle! She's an absolute dream.
You see, in between my ballet classes and performances (did I tell you about my latest role as the Sugar Plum Fairy? Oh, the feathers!), I embark on extraordinary time travel escapades. Yes, it's a secret I only share with my lovely Pink Tutu Travels readers!
Each month I use my earnings from those spectacular performances to fund our trip, carefully choosing a date from the dazzling timeline of ballet history. We leap back, I gather beautiful treasures and thrilling stories, then hop back into the present – all while rocking my fabulous pink tutu! My back-pack, a sturdy leather affair, is brimming with ballet delights: a feather from Nijinsky's costume, a tiny program from La Bayadère, even a sketch from a forgotten ballerina!
But I digress. Let's go back to October 2033...
Now, in 2033, the world of ballet is bubbling with excitement. You might have caught glimpses of some fantastic innovations on our website. "Dancing with Robots" was the big buzz – think incredibly lifelike android ballerinas and those wonderful, futuristic sets. I was lucky enough to catch a performance at the Bolshoi and let me tell you, it was breath-taking!
Of course, I couldn't resist indulging in a bit of fabulous shopping! Think exquisite shoes, silk tutus that practically danced on their own, and breathtaking jewellery. Even then, pink was all the rage! But I must admit, some of the trends, like "the futuristic fringe", aren't quite for me.
However, I couldn't ignore the impact of digital ballet - performances beamed to every corner of the globe. You see, we're moving with the times. Think immersive ballet productions and even those interactive ballet apps! But don't worry, darlings, the timeless elegance of a classical tutu still shines through.
Now, you might be thinking, "But Emma, why do we go back?" Good question! You see, for me, it's all about connection. A glimpse into ballet's rich history helps us understand its extraordinary evolution, its stories, its dedication. Plus, I adore the magic of reliving those glorious moments from our beloved ballet history, from the grace of Anna Pavlova to the strength of Margot Fonteyn!
As usual, I made sure to record all my incredible experiences – it’s my mission to bring you a little bit of that wonderful ballet history right here on Pink Tutu Travels.
Right, without further ado, let's dive into October 2033!
Ballet in October 2033: A Peek Through the Time TunnelOkay, imagine this – the Royal Opera House in London. I’m sitting front row centre, with the shimmery stage in front of me. I’m already entranced by the opulent architecture and all the gorgeous people dressed to impress. Suddenly, the curtain rises and – wow! A kaleidoscope of colour, beautiful sets, and music that swells and lifts the very soul. I’m watching the choreographer, a young woman with a fire in her eye, directing the dancers as they effortlessly soar through the air.
The piece itself is captivating. A ballet based on the legend of St. George and the Dragon but with a distinctly modern twist, it had all the beauty of a classical ballet with incredible innovative elements, like acrobatic feats and dynamic use of projections that mirrored the action. This choreographer, they called her 'Rose', had the talent and imagination to reinterpret these traditional stories in a new, exciting, and oh so dazzling way.
And the costumes? Oh my darling ballet bunnies, let me tell you! I must say, I felt the faintest of pang of disappointment to be in a simple but stylish pink tutu while they had such a rainbow of breathtaking costumes! St. George was in shimmering armour that appeared to dance along with him, the dragon a majestic and fearsome beast with swirling, colourful scales. There was such a blend of tradition and innovation. And you know me, darling, I’m always on the lookout for new inspiration for my wardrobe!
Oh, and speaking of inspiring outfits, it just so happens that Rose was wearing a fabulous pink, tulle skirt (that would put any ballet dancer's heart a-flutter!). Now, that's what I call a beautiful nod to ballet heritage and a touch of whimsicality.
That evening, after the ballet performance, we made our way to The Ballet Box – an elegant, bustling shop that showcased the latest in ballet attire and accessories. I just had to see for myself these legendary 'Kinetic Tutu's' everyone was raving about – think a luminous, almost holographic material that captured the motion of the dancers like a magic spell. I bought myself one in a gorgeous lilac shade (it was close enough to pink for me, darling!) to take home with me as a little souvenir!
My goodness! We met a delightful chap – Mr. B – who is the editor of the leading ballet magazine 'En Pointe' in this time. What an extraordinary opportunity for me to chat with him and ask him about all the hot topics in ballet.
Mr. B explained how ballet companies across the globe were striving to reach audiences beyond traditional venues, offering exciting projects in outdoor venues, parks, and even museums. The ambition to bring ballet to everyone, he said, was becoming increasingly important to a new generation of dancers and companies.
That got me thinking – perhaps I should arrange a pink tutu flash mob at my next performance in Derbyshire?! Imagine the joyous spectacle as all the children, and indeed grown-ups, whirled around in their pink tutus! I think my friend would have a heart attack. I must give it some serious consideration!
Now, after a wonderful and invigorating day full of ballet enchantment, it’s time for me and Magic Meg to take a dip back into the present day. I promise to tell you all about it next month on my next blog! But for now, my dearest ballet bunnies, remember to keep your eyes wide open for beauty in the everyday and let the dance of life enchant you!
And, of course, always keep a pink tutu at the ready, because you never know when magic might strike!
Lots of love, Emma
xx
P.S. You can see some photos of our October 2033 adventures on our Instagram page @PinkTutuTravels! We would absolutely love it if you join our community of ballet-lovers!
