Dearest readers,
Greetings from your favourite time-traveling ballerina, Emma! It's #TutuTuesday and I'm thrilled to be whisked back to the grand Parisian theatres of 1915. Can you believe it's been over a century since this beautiful year graced us with its presence? Time really does fly, doesn't it? Especially when you're gallivanting around history in a pink tutu!
This week, I'm exploring the history of our beloved tutu. But let's be honest, darlings, even back in 1915, a tutu wasn't just about the dance - it was a fashion statement! A whisper of tulle and silk, dancing gracefully in the light - oh, how the Parisian women of this era knew how to make an entrance!
But before I take you back to the stage, let me tell you all about my little Parisian escapade. I arrived by train, of course - there's something quite magical about gliding through the countryside, watching the scenery melt away as I plan my day in the city. Paris in 1915 buzzed with life - it's almost a little difficult to imagine that only a year earlier, Europe was plunged into war.
My first stop, naturally, was a delightful boutique bursting with beautiful fabrics and lace - you'd simply never find such a variety in Derbyshire! They even had the most stunning shade of pink, perfect for a tutu, wouldn't you say? Of course, I had to add a few yards to my collection. Then, it was off to the grand Théâtre des Champs-Élysées to witness a stunning performance of La Boutique Fantasque, a playful ballet full of colour and charming characters. Imagine, dancing shoes twirling to the sounds of Offenbach - it was simply delightful!
But what of our tutus? Let's step back in time a bit and take a peek into their history, shall we?
Imagine a ballet stage with delicate white fabric swirling and flowing, perhaps with the lightest hint of embellishment. That was the world of the tutu back in the 18th century! Think Marie Antoinette - powdered hair and intricate court dances - a far cry from the flowing movements of the tutu today.
Now, take a giant leap forward to the beginning of the 20th century, and picture a vision in pale pink, tulle, and feather-light elegance - the romantic tutu is born!
And in 1915, my darlings, this vision is at its peak! This romantic, ethereal tutu, is becoming more daring, flowing and dramatic. This look, is a testament to the increasing freedom of movement and the evolution of ballet technique. It's not just a dress anymore; it's a symbol of graceful motion.
It is said that it was Anna Pavlova, that iconic ballerina, who further revolutionized the tutu around this time. Her style, all effortless grace and exquisite detail, became an inspiration for many a dancer. I even caught a glimpse of a charming woman with strikingly similar features to her, but it seems we weren't quite meant to meet.
Oh, and remember the tutu length, my dears! The dancers of the 1910s were experimenting with a variety of lengths, a far cry from the strict à la longueur, that short tutu that is most recognizable today. The dancers wore their tutus at varying lengths, showing the beauty of the movement from the legs to the flowing lines of the tulle.
Today's tutus are still evolving, reflecting the demands of new styles and techniques. From the majestic tutu of Swan Lake to the graceful swishes of Giselle, tutus continue to captivate and enthrall audiences.
Tutus are a symbol of freedom of expression, of a dream that can only be spun with threads of hope, a reflection of a heart dancing. I dream of a day when everyone wears a tutu, where each step carries a piece of the joy, the freedom, and the magic that dances in our souls. And maybe even, with some help, we can all experience that freedom.
But until then, darling, don't forget to grab your pink tutu and step out onto the world's stage!
With much love, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
