Darling, it's a sweltering summer day, 29 July 2000, the very day we're going to explore the fascinating world of the tutu. Now, I know what you're thinking: 'A tutu? Is this really news?' Well, darlings, you'd be surprised. The tutu, a seemingly simple piece of costume, has a surprisingly scandalous history, not to mention some pretty hilarious moments in ballet history.
Think about it: a skirt, usually made of tulle, that starts at the waist and floats out, ending somewhere around the knees or even higher, depending on the choreographer's whims. Talk about impractical for a sweaty performance. But let's be honest, darlings, it wouldn't be ballet without the drama, the graceful lines, and the glorious, whimsical puffiness of a good tutu. Imagine those glorious leaps, the pirouettes, all while wearing something that looks like a giant cloud. Now, that's dedication to art, my dears.
Now, I'm not suggesting that every ballet dancer wears a tutu. You can't wear one for contemporary pieces, for example, unless you want to look like a cross between a giant meringue and a disco ball (not necessarily a bad thing, I must say). But, when the time comes for those classic ballets like 'Swan Lake' and 'Sleeping Beauty,' well, darling, there's no getting around it: the tutu must make an appearance.
And here's why the tutu is more exciting than you think:- It's all about that delicate balance. A good tutu must be fluffy enough to catch the eye and provide that air of ethereal elegance, but not so bulky that it hinders movement. Imagine trying to do a fouette with a huge, bulky tutu! It would be a tragic dance of a crumpled feather duster. And let's not forget the practicality of getting in and out of these glorious contraptions - quite a feat in itself. I have vivid memories of a very hot, cramped dressing room, a few fellow dancers and a tangled web of netting... let's just say there's always an element of a very delicate dance going on!
- It's about more than just looking pretty. I know, I know, 'ballerinas always look pretty'. And a tutu does have a certain something. But a great dancer doesn't just stand in the centre of the stage and twirl. She tells a story, and the tutu plays a role. A billowing cloud of tulle that catches the stage lights? A perfectly formed circle, the result of hours and hours of practice? These aren't just bits of fabric. They're pieces of an expression, conveying all kinds of emotion. It’s a bit like the invisible threads that connect the audience to the dance. It’s the visual representation of the passion that’s bursting forth on stage.
- The tutu has an incredible history! From its beginnings as a simplified adaptation of the traditional crinoline skirts to the evolution into the ethereal clouds of tulle we see today, the tutu is a symbol of change and innovation. There’s nothing quite as lovely as the sight of a corps de ballet gracefully twirling in perfectly symmetrical tutus, a stunning demonstration of technical skill. But, darlings, in this day and age, even the tutu isn’t safe from fashion’s embrace. The world of high fashion has embraced the tutu with open arms. Imagine seeing a ballerina performing on a fashion catwalk? You would simply be amazed! And we're seeing tutu-inspired designs in couture gowns, everyday skirts, even jewellery, darlings!
And just as importantly, let’s not forget that the tutu brings with it the pure delight of the impossible. It is a visual manifestation of what it means to defy gravity with elegance and beauty. Who wouldn’t be impressed by that, darling?
So, the next time you see a ballerina dancing on stage, don’t just focus on the grace, the artistry, the flawless leaps, the perfect pirouette. Focus on that little bit of fabric that makes it all happen. The tutu: it's a reminder of what art can be – breathtaking, enchanting, a touch whimsical, and absolutely delightful! Now, off I go, I’ve got some tutus of my own to try on!