Hello, darlings! Emma here, your pink tutu-wearing guide to the fascinating world of ballet history! It’s Tuesday, which means it’s time to get twirling with another #TutuTuesday post, exploring the world of tutus through the lens of time travel. Today, we’re hopping on the train (first-class, naturally, because a true ballerina always travels in style) and heading back to July 28th, 1936!
Now, hold on tight, because this trip takes us straight into the heart of the ballet world, specifically to London, England, the beating heart of the theatrical scene. And guess what? It just so happens that on this very date, The Sadler’s Wells Ballet Company, later to become the world-famous Royal Ballet, opened their new season at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre with a grand performance of The Sleeping Beauty!
Imagine the excitement, the anticipation! It must have been a magical evening. I just adore how the theatre scene brings everyone together. A ballet performance, it’s truly an event! Everyone from the royal family to your local dressmaker would be present to admire the elegance of the dancers. The women would have been a vision in dazzling dresses, feather boas, and stylish hats, adding a dash of flair to the grand occasion. And, of course, there would be the exquisite tutus of the ballerinas. Can you imagine those perfectly executed pirouettes against a backdrop of gaslight-kissed stage magic?
Speaking of tutus, you know, I couldn't help but be a little envious of the ladies from the 1930s. Just picture this: their tutus – shorter than today's creations, a little bit puffier, but equally as charming. You’ll find that era loved a bit of dramatic puffiness in their garments, and what could be more dramatic than a ballerina gracefully executing a grand jeté? Oh, the beautiful contrasts of form and movement! The swirling, flowing skirts were just begging to be admired. Honestly, it’s no wonder that this decade is a constant source of inspiration for ballet costume designers even today!
Speaking of the present, let’s chat about the tutus of 2023! The styles have definitely evolved! Gone are the dramatic puffed-up silhouettes, and in their place, we see a focus on slim, streamlined shapes, perfectly highlighting the dancer's physique and allowing for even greater range of motion. Of course, the signature layers of tulle remain – the magic of tulle, let me tell you, is absolutely timeless. Whether you’re a seasoned ballet pro or just starting your dance journey, it’s difficult not to be entranced by a beautiful tulle tutu!
Speaking of beautiful tulle, my lovely readers, don't forget – every Tuesday we have our Pink Tutu Contest right here on www.pink-tutu.com. Show us your fabulous pink tutus for a chance to win some exciting prizes and be featured on our website!
Now, back to our 1936 ballet journey. While the Sadler’s Wells Theatre may have played a pivotal role in the ballet world that evening, a lot of ballet action was happening across the world, even right here in our own Derbyshire, England! It’s amazing to see that ballet is truly a global art form. We see it in the ballets created in different parts of the world, but we also see it in the way people from across the globe find beauty in it. Whether you’re admiring the exquisite craftsmanship of a handmade tutu or marveling at the complex, beautiful movements, ballet is a powerful expression that can transcend languages and cultures.
There is so much about this 1936 date, from the glamorous evening wear, to the innovative ballet costumes of the time! Just imagine – even while sitting in your favourite spot in your theatre balcony, it’s like stepping back in time and experiencing it yourself. It’s the allure of time travel, the magic of fashion, and the grace of dance that have me completely spellbound.
As I’m closing this blog post and prepping my train luggage for our next time-traveling adventure, I just have to add one little thought. Let’s make ‘Tutu Tuesday’ a celebration! This beautiful art form, its history and legacy, are all something to cherish! Every week, I can’t wait to discover more of its magic with you! Let me know in the comments your favorite ballerina! What are some of your fondest ballet memories?
Don't forget to join us next week for another thrilling #TutuTuesday blog, where we’ll delve into the sparkling world of ballet history, together!
Keep twirling and stay glamorous,
Emma x
