Hello my darling dears! It's Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time traveller, and it's Tuesday, so that means it's time for another delve into the fabulous world of ballet tutus!
This week, we're taking a little trip back to 24th November 1925. Now, this date isn't just any ordinary date - it's the day the legendary Vaslav Nijinsky's Le Sacre du Printemps premiered in London at the Coliseum Theatre. Can you believe it? Almost 100 years ago!
And for all you ballet aficionados, I'm sure you're thinking just like I am: "Nijinsky? Le Sacre du Printemps?" It's practically a symphony of tutus! Just picture the iconic choreography, the captivating costumes, and the electrifying energy of that first performance – it must have been truly magical!
But before we get lost in the wonder of this historical ballet spectacle, let's talk about the tutue, darling!
Now, I'm sure some of you lovely ladies might be thinking: * "What's so special about tutus in 1925, Emma? We've been twirling in tutus for centuries!"* Well, my sweet dears, you'd be right in a way, but let me enlighten you on how things were back then.
The tutu we know and love today wasn't quite the show-stopping garment it is now! In 1925, tutus were more romantic and fluid. Think flowing layers of tulle and chiffon, adorned with delicate embroidery and ribbons. Imagine a fairy queen gliding through a meadow – that's what the ballerinas were like!
We've got to thank Marius Petipa, one of the most important choreographers in ballet history, for starting this romantic tutu trend back in the 1800s. The "romantic tutu," with its soft, sweeping skirt, was all about elegance and grace – everything a ballerina should be!
Of course, the style of tutus changed over the decades. By 1925, designers started experimenting with new materials like satin and velvet, making tutus even more glamorous and luxurious. It's the era of Art Deco – think geometric patterns and a touch of modern elegance, but still within the context of classic beauty.
Back to Nijinsky’s Le Sacre du Printemps *, this wasn't exactly the kind of performance that embraced the *romantic tutu! Instead, the dancers in Le Sacre were *clad in innovative costumes designed by Nicholas Roerich, that mirrored the primitive, earthy nature of the ballet itself. It was an artistic earthquake, moving ballet away from traditional themes and costumes. It caused an utter stir among audiences! Imagine the gasp and shock - these costumes looked nothing like what they were used to! The audience's disapproval at the première led to some disturbance - all the more reason to celebrate *Le Sacre du Printemps!
In the grand scheme of things, Le Sacre du Printemps paved the way for modern ballet as we know it, with its focus on expressing raw emotion and movement, instead of purely romantic storylines. And that includes a change in the styles of tutu and costumes. Think Martha Graham, and the groundbreaking George Balanchine, who changed the way we see dancers – their incredible physiques and strength now at the forefront.
Fast-forward to the present, and we're spoilt for choice when it comes to tutus! We've got the traditional tutu, the romantic one with its fluffy, voluminous layers, the classic, sleek tutu for modern and contemporary pieces, and even the funky, experimental tutu, made with daring colours and bold designs.
And while those modern-day, daring styles may not have existed in 1925, one thing that remains the same: the enduring power of the tutu! It's a timeless symbol of femininity, grace, and elegance – it captivates and inspires everyone who lays eyes on it.
Even those who haven’t taken a ballet class in their lives feel the power of a tutu! When they see a ballet performance they get drawn into a world of dreams and wonder. Tutue power, my friends!
As a huge admirer of all things tutus, I encourage you to seek out historical photos of ballet dancers in 1925 to see the stunning variety of tutus back then. Or better still, head down to a theatre performance, or a ballet class.
And always, always wear a pink tutu, my darlings! Because no matter what era, a pink tutu is the key to happiness – let's spread the joy and inspire a new generation to fall in love with ballet!
Keep dancing, my lovelies! And see you next Tuesday for another #TutuTuesday post!
Love, Emma
P.S. My latest adventure was an epic train journey across Europe – I felt like a 1925 fashion icon, even sporting a beautiful vintage lace-trimmed coat. And wouldn't you know it? I stumbled across an antique store that had the most exquisite collection of antique ballet tutus. Imagine! Silk, chiffon, ribbons galore! The only problem is that my suitcase was bursting with vintage dresses, gloves, and hats. But hey, the perfect tutu makes any sacrifice worthwhile!
This post is number 4900 for my Ballet Tutu History Blog. Check out more posts at www.pink-tutu.com. I post every Tuesday for a brand new blog post. See you there!
