#TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History - 1929-07-09!
Hello darlings! Welcome back to another thrilling #TutuTuesday! It's Emma here, your trusty time-travelling tutu aficionado, coming to you live (well, sort of, it's more of a time-travel broadcast) from...wait for it...Paris! That's right, the City of Lights! And trust me, there's no better place to celebrate the wonder of the ballet tutu than right here in the heart of dance.
Today's date, 1929-07-09, marks a particularly exciting moment in ballet history. It's like stepping straight into a vintage Parisian film - the kind where flapper dresses swirl and champagne bubbles endlessly. And speaking of champagne... tonight, my darling tutu-lovers, is the premiere of Serge Diaghilev's Ballets Russes production of "Le Sacre du Printemps"! Can you imagine! The sheer audacity! This groundbreaking, controversial, and completely revolutionary work of dance artistry - all taking place right here in Paris!
Now, before we dive into the exciting spectacle of "Le Sacre," let's rewind a little and discuss the stars of the show... the tutus, of course!
Tutu Talk - 1929You know me, darling readers, I'm a staunch advocate for all things tutu, and this year, 1929, marks a really significant period in their evolution. Remember, this is the time when Diaghilev and his Ballets Russes were really pushing boundaries in both dance and fashion. We're talking about a mix of dramatic, expressive movements, exotic inspirations from around the world, and, of course, tutus!
Think layered, billowing tulle, cascading in soft waves, almost like a delicate cloud, but with an underlying air of movement and dynamism. Think of a modern silhouette with a strong line but a whisper of romanticism. It's just absolutely stunning, darlings! The colours, too! Bold hues, jewel tones, a mix of pastel and vibrant, with shimmering sequins, glittering embellishments, and perhaps even a few strategically placed feathers - it's all a dazzling mix!
This year's "Le Sacre du Printemps," however, is actually quite a departure from the traditional romantic tutus we've come to expect. The dancers' outfits are rather simple, more functional than frilly, featuring fitted leotards, draped skirts, and maybe some leather boots or sandals, a sharp contrast to the swirling, layered tutus we typically see on stage. It's all about expressing raw emotion, primal movement, and the strength and energy of the dancers, creating a truly striking, unforgettable spectacle.
This focus on strength and power, I think, perfectly reflects the changing mood in dance. Gone are the days of soft and demure ballets; there's a sense of dramatic urgency and powerful emotions - the kind you just can't escape! This exciting new trend in dance, you can see reflected in the tutus - bolder, bolder, bolder, and not afraid to express the raw, untamed spirit of the times!
Off to the Premiere!Oh, but I'm getting carried away! I simply cannot wait to see "Le Sacre"! There are just a few moments before I whisk myself away to the Théatre des Champs-Élysées, where the premiere will take place. You simply have to imagine, dear readers: opulent theatre, hushed anticipation, the hum of excited whispers, the scent of perfume, the glimmer of diamonds... it's a feast for all the senses!
After the performance, I will, of course, be indulging in a splendid late-night Parisian adventure! A few hours shopping at the latest fashion houses, perhaps a glass of something sparkling at a glamorous café, and, of course, indulging in a delicious treat. The pastries in Paris are divine!
I shall report back next Tuesday, my dear tutu lovers, with all the latest ballet happenings from the City of Lights, full of stories from "Le Sacre" and all the Parisian flair I can gather! Don't forget to keep a look out for post number 5090 on www.pink-tutu.com!
Until next time, my dears, keep your tutus twirling!
Love,
Emma x