Hello, my lovely tutu-loving darlings! It's Emma here, your pink tutu-wearing time traveller, and welcome back to #TutuTuesday! Today we're stepping back in time, or rather, forward (because who doesn't love a good paradox?) to the glorious year 1931, where the world was in the throes of The Great Depression, but where ballet tutus were still taking centre stage, both literally and figuratively.
This is post number 5192 on my ballet tutu history blog, a monumental achievement if I do say so myself! This blog is my passion, my reason for being (apart from, you know, wearing my trusty pink tutu). I travel through time, learning about ballet tutus, and bringing their history back to the future - to you! So, grab a cuppa (or a fancy French café au lait, if you're feeling fancy!), sit back, and let's delve into the world of ballet tutus, 1931-style.
Now, you may be wondering what's so special about June 30th, 1931. Well, darlings, on this very date, something incredibly fabulous was happening! The world-renowned choreographer, George Balanchine, was presenting his "Serenade" at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris! Now, you'll have to forgive my inner fangirl, but I squealed with delight when I learned about this.
Imagine, my lovelies, the Parisian stage lit up with dancers in exquisite, flowing tutus, twirling and leaping to the captivating music of Tchaikovsky. Can you picture the shimmering silk, the graceful movements, the sheer artistry? It's a visual feast, even for us through the lens of time!
And let's not forget about the fashion, my darlings! Paris in the 1930s was a haven for stylish trends, and that included the world of ballet costumes. Imagine the dancers in their silk-lined tutus, paired with exquisite satin shoes. A perfect embodiment of both elegance and artistry, don't you think?
But back to the actual tutus. In the 1930s, tutus were undergoing a subtle shift. Gone were the bulky, restrictive tutus of the 19th century, replaced by lighter, more airy designs that allowed for greater movement and fluidity. It was the perfect reflection of the changing landscape of ballet, embracing dynamic new styles like "Ballet Russes."
For instance, take the "tutu romantique" of the 1830s to the 1860s, with its layers of tulle extending down to the ankles and the soft, romantic flowing shapes. Then, imagine the transition to the "tutu classique," shorter and lighter. And finally, imagine that evolving even further into the “tutu à la française,” with the delicate layered design emphasizing a lighter feel and making for greater athleticism on stage. I truly believe, even after all my years of time travel, this transformation in style in the tutu is so brilliant.
Now, the year 1931 might not have brought us any dramatic, groundbreaking tutu revolution, but it was a vital step in the ongoing evolution of the iconic piece. It’s also a good time to point out the continued importance of a good "ballet tutu" when it comes to any dance! The right one can enhance a dancer's posture and the ability to show grace and elegance on stage. In other words, the tutu isn't just there for beauty; it plays a key role in the art form itself.
But my darlings, you don't need to be a dancer to embrace the joy of a good tutu! This #TutuTuesday, I encourage you to celebrate your own inner ballerina by adding a touch of tulle to your life. Whether it’s a whimsical skirt, a pink hairband with some lace or a fluffy pom pom, bring a little sprinkle of ballet magic to your day. Remember, the power of a tutu knows no boundaries. After all, everyone can dance!
So, what will your pink tutu adventure be? I'm off to the ballet. Today I'm seeing "Giselle," one of the most beautiful ballet stories ever. (The final scene is simply heart-wrenching!)
Until next #TutuTuesday, darlings!
Lots of love and tulle-filled wishes,
Emma, your Derbyshire-born, time-travelling ballerina
P.S. Want to keep up with my #TutuTuesday posts? Visit www.pink-tutu.com! It's the ultimate resource for all things ballet and tutus.
P.P.S. Remember, my lovelies, it's never too late to embrace your inner ballerina! The beauty of ballet is its universality and the magic of the tutu extends to everyone! Now, who's ready to twirl?
