Dearest readers, can you believe it? It’s 23rd September, 1999! I just love this time of year - the crispness in the air, the promise of pumpkin spiced lattes and the absolute divine rush of seeing the new season's ballet line-up. Now, darling, I know you think I'm going to tell you about Swan Lake or some other boring old ballet classic, but no, no, no. We’re not going for tired, we’re going for chic and edgy! It's all about the tutus, and this season they are absolutely divine! Think feathers, sequins, and, dare I say, a hint of *punk rock*. I mean, who knew a tulle skirt could be so… exciting?
Okay, now hold on to your diamond-encrusted tiaras, darlings, because things are about to get scandalous. At the Royal Ballet this year, they're launching a brand new show, “Tutusized”! That’s right, they’re *completely* reinventing classical ballets - Think Swan Lake meets Spice Girls. And by the looks of it, this *ain’t* your grandmother's tutu. We’re talking metallics, sequins the size of my face (and we know those are big!), and, whisper it, some serious *booty* shaking! I hear they've even roped in some big-name fashion designers. Now, those darlings know a thing or two about fabric and frills, so just imagine what they're going to do with the classic tutu. I’m *dying* to see a little Vivienne Westwood inspired "Dying Swan"! Think safety pins, lace, and just a *hint* of grunge.
And you think the fashion is daring? Wait till you hear the choreography. The director of "Tutusized" told me, “We’re gonna be throwing out all those old rules, darling. The swans won’t be all graceful and serene this year. No way! This year we’re going for raw, we're going for daring, we’re going for – dare I say it – *fun*.” He even told me that they’re incorporating some actual breakdancing, and hip-hop into the performance. “Tutusized,” he told me, "is a whole new look at what a tutu can be.”
Don’t think the classic ballerina looks are dead and gone just yet. For you true traditionalists, darling, there is a delightful twist on Swan Lake set in the French countryside! Imagine fluffy white tutus adorned with tiny, charming daisies! They’re absolutely adorable, darling, and it just proves, sometimes all we need is a touch of a bit of sweetness! And the ballet companies are definitely embracing the "modern ballerina" with its embrace of fashion. I even saw an absolutely smashing “Sleeping Beauty” done by The Birmingham Royal Ballet set in the swinging '60s! It's got the A-line mini tutus, go-go boots and a soundtrack by The Beatles. Can you say fashion *goals*? I don’t know what the actual Sleeping Beauty is gonna be doing in a go-go outfit, but who needs to *actually* sleep when you look that fab, eh?
So, if you’re thinking of a fun night out, ditch the *old* ballet scene darling. Forget the stuffy, black tie dress code! Instead of worrying about a formal gown, you can even try something a little “boho”. Imagine flowy florals and suede jackets. (Maybe throw in a sequined beret for a hint of *that* certain something). After all, this season is all about taking a playful and feminine approach to classic pieces, right?
Oh, darling, you can thank me later for opening your eyes to this new world of fabulousness! Now, I'm going to go ahead and make my way to the Royal Opera House and be first in line to see this daring show! It's a perfect way to add some glam and pizazz to any night!
**Here's the quick lowdown on why tutus are stealing the spotlight this season**:
- The traditional tutu is *gone*. In its place? Sexy, sassy, and absolutely eye-catching modern tutus.
- Think bold colours, feathers, sequins, sparkly fabrics.
- The *big* question: what will they do with *those* classic designs? Will they bring back the 60s mini-tutu or even, dare we think it, make a comeback for the ballerina's *boots*?!
You've got the 23rd September 1999, and the rest is up to you! Get ready to unleash your inner dancing queen, darlings, and prepare for a night out like no other!
Love,
The Dance Diva