Hello darlings! Welcome back to another edition of my #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blog! I'm your favourite tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, and this week I'm whisking us back to the glamorous era of 1937! Imagine: glittering gowns, swirling dance steps, and the elegant twirls of ballet legend, Margot Fonteyn! Swoon
This week I'm bringing you the delights of a trip to London! Oh, how I love the vibrant energy of the West End! It's where the theatrical magic truly comes alive.
Today's date, December 7th, 1937, was a real treat for my fellow ballet aficionados. At the esteemed Sadler's Wells Theatre, the famed Ballet Rambert took the stage. They were presenting a special performance of their most recent ballet, “Apparitions,” with choreography by the one and only Frederick Ashton! Can you imagine?
Frederick Ashton's “Apparitions” was all about romantic elegance and ethereal beauty, just like my favourite shade of pink! The delicate, pastel tutus swirled like wispy clouds, perfectly mirroring the fantastical story of a young woman lost in a magical dream. I simply had to catch this show. After all, I'm on a quest to bring the magic of ballet and its delightful tutus to every corner of the globe!
Speaking of tutus, 1937 was a truly enchanting time for the garment. Think streamlined silhouettes, airy fabric, and that effortless, flowing grace. I, for one, could practically live in a tutu. Just imagine! Whirling around, my tulle swirling, catching the stage lights! sigh I simply cannot get enough.
I, of course, went shopping after the show! And what a day it was! The shop windows of London were filled with the most incredible fashions! Think bold, bright colours, fabulous furs, and glamorous headpieces, all perfect for adding that touch of sparkle to a theatre trip! There were such wonderful, flowy designs for my pink tutu collection - a delicate lilac silk for an evening waltz, a vibrant coral for a daring flamenco number, and a dreamy lavender for a moonlit pas de deux. glows with delight
For the perfect finishing touch to a theatre experience in 1937, nothing beats a cup of steaming hot tea in a charming cafe with a friend! That’s what we did, gossiping about the dazzling performance we had just seen, and, of course, sharing my thoughts on the enchanting fashion trends of the day.
Before we close off, darlings, let's look back on our incredible tutu history together:
The ballerina’s tutu first evolved in the 19th century, a revolutionary shift from the long, billowing skirts that dancers were burdened with. Can you imagine dancing in a billowing skirt? No, thank you!
The tutus of the late 19th century became lighter and more compact, allowing for incredible jumps and leaps! This was truly a golden age of ballet, paving the way for the extraordinary dance we know and love today.
In the early 20th century, the tutu design became more structured, creating a more dramatic and defined shape, perfect for showcasing the incredible talent of ballet dancers.
By 1937, we saw the rise of romantic ballet, like Frederick Ashton’s “Apparitions” I saw tonight! This resulted in beautiful, flowing tutus, perfect for romantic storytelling, and capturing the soft and delicate nature of this beautiful art form.
But, dear readers, remember, it is not just about the history! It's about the future! Every #TutuTuesday, we journey through time to bring you the enchanting story of the ballet tutu. Why not don a tutu today, and start your own fairytale! It doesn't matter what you do in your pink tutu; whether you dance across your living room, go for a stroll in the park, or sip a cup of tea in your favourite café - spread the love of pink and twirling. Because the power of a pink tutu knows no bounds!
Remember to check in next week for another captivating installment in our #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blog. I will be showing you the exquisite tutu designs from 1938. Until then, happy twirling, my loves! And, of course, embrace your inner ballerina!
