Hello my gorgeous tutu-loving lovelies! Emma here, back from another whirl through time, this time landing smack-dab in the middle of 1913. Now, 1913 was a real turning point for the ballet world, and I have to tell you, darling, it wasn't just about the pretty tutus - though believe me, there were plenty of those!
But before we get into the nitty-gritty, I have to share my outfit. Imagine a frothy, frothy pink tulle tutu, billowing and swirling with every pirouette. It's not your modern, wispy affair - this baby is full, grand, a true symbol of the era. A matching pink ribbon, tied in a giant bow at the back, completes the look, naturally.
I landed in Paris, the beating heart of ballet back then, feeling like a pink fairy amidst all the grandeur. This was the time of Diaghilev's Ballets Russes - and let me tell you, darling, they were quite the spectacle! Think lavish costumes, exotic music, and dancing so dazzling, it would leave you speechless!
A Fashionable Leap Forward
So what's so special about 1913, you ask? Well, it's the year the ballet world truly started embracing the short tutu we know and love. Before this, ballerinas were decked out in flowing, ankle-length skirts - think Grecian goddess chic. It was all about billowing movement and elegant draping.
But Vaslav Nijinsky, a true revolutionary of the dance world, came along and shook things up with his choreography. And this change, darling, brought about the iconic, shortened, multi-layered tutu! Think "Le Sacre du Printemps" by Igor Stravinsky, with its revolutionary, primitive choreography, demanding short, full skirts for a bold and dynamic look. It allowed for freedom of movement and showcased the strength and grace of the ballerina.
I have to admit, it felt exhilarating to see those short, poofy skirts swirling and flying across the stage. Imagine my pink tutu, but even grander, layered with yards and yards of tulle - a dream come true for a tutu enthusiast like me!
The Grand Opening
Now, what was happening on this very day, July 22, 1913, you ask? A special performance! "The Legend of Joseph" ballet by the company known as "Le Théâtre de la danse de Mme. de Ruelle" was held at a Paris theater, "La Renaissance."
Sadly, no photos remain from that specific date of this performance! But, don't worry, darling, I have pictures galore from the era and even from earlier performances! There’s no denying the beauty and romance of ballet - and the tutu, in its new, short, glorious form, added an element of fairytale charm that captured hearts worldwide.
More Than Just Pretty Pinks
Speaking of ballet’s popularity, let’s talk a bit more about its role in 1913. Yes, ballet was certainly the height of fashion for those in the know. But its impact went beyond the ballroom.
The arrival of the short tutu also opened up the dance form to new styles of choreography. With the legs and feet more prominent, it allowed for movement more athletic and demanding. We’re talking amazing, high jumps and graceful pirouettes! This was ballet entering a new era of power and expression.
And how did all of this affect me, a modern tutu-lover like yourself?
Well, I had a chance to witness these amazing dancers up close, experience the energy and spectacle of these early ballets, and, of course, be a part of the tutu history that unfolded. I can assure you, the evolution of the tutu was an important moment, just like the new style of dance, in how people saw and experienced ballet.
Travel in Style
Before I jet off to the next adventure, let's chat a bit about getting around. I can’t tell you how much I love a good train ride, especially the ones with the lovely, vintage carriages and big, wide windows!
Traveling by train allows me to take in all the beauty of the countryside, and you know what else is great? The ability to look fantastic even in travel attire! I’ve already mastered the art of rocking a tutu on the train, just remember to always bring a cozy wrap or jacket, darlings. I wouldn't want to catch a chill during our grand adventures.
A Pink Tutu Promise
So, there you have it, a whirlwind tour through the era that brought the tutu we know and love. From the elaborate, full tutus to the lighter, shorter versions, it's an evolution of style and movement.
This little bit of tutu history was a delightful time travel journey! Now, it’s time for you to spread your love for the tutu like I do. Get your friends involved, encourage your favorite designers, and get ready to make a bold statement in your very own pink tutu, just like me. And, remember to join me next Tuesday for more tutu-tastic time-travel escapades! Until then, happy twirling!
Emma x
P.S. If you’re a fellow tutu enthusiast who’d like to share your own tutu experiences, please don’t be shy! Let me know in the comments what you love most about the tutu!
