Hello my dearest Tutu Twirlers! It's Tuesday again, and that means it's time for a trip through the whimsical world of ballet tutus! This week, I'm twirling back to the 13th of September 1938 - a date that whispers of elegance and grace!
Imagine me, dear readers, stepping off a sleek, polished train, arriving in a bustling London station. My train journey from my charming Derbyshire home has been an absolute dream, the clickety-clack of the wheels a soothing rhythm against the backdrop of the countryside rushing past.
Today, my pink tulle is adorned with tiny delicate sequins that shimmer in the city light, and the feel of its soft, billowing fabric is positively exhilarating. It's the perfect ensemble for soaking up the energy of a time where dance, fashion, and culture intertwined beautifully.
Now, back to our journey through time, the 13th of September 1938, finds us right in the heart of London. Today, my darling tutu-lovers, is a momentous day! For at the Sadler's Wells Theatre, a ballet performance unlike any other is about to unfold. This performance features the world premiere of “The Sleeping Beauty”, by none other than the renowned choreographer, Sir Frederick Ashton, and performed by the Vic-Wells Ballet, a company destined for greatness. I tell you, my dears, the anticipation is practically palpable!
Imagine the whispers and anticipation building as the lights dim and the orchestra swells. A magical spectacle awaits! "The Sleeping Beauty" is a story steeped in fairy-tale wonder. The delicate artistry of the choreography, paired with the breathtaking scenery and costumes, takes audiences on a dreamlike journey through time.
This date in 1938 isn't only marked by this enchanting premiere, however. Today also sees the publication of a landmark piece, * The Ballet Annual, by Arnold Haskell, which goes on to become a vital resource for those seeking to explore the world of dance in the coming years. It’s a true testament to the growing prominence of ballet as a form of art that captivates the heart and enchants the soul.
Now, darling friends, a little word about the tutus of the 1930s. Imagine yourself with the Vic-Wells Ballet dancers. Their tutus were made with delicate, flowing silk that danced and swirled with every move. They embraced simplicity with elegant lines, a sharp contrast to the elaborate and voluminous tutus of earlier eras. Think a blend of airy elegance with just a hint of a playful spirit.
Even in those early years, you see, the ballet tutu was already a powerful symbol of feminine beauty and artistic expression. It evoked feelings of lightness, grace, and even a touch of mystery.
It’s important to remember, dears, that ballet in the 1930s was in its golden age, both in London and beyond. It wasn’t just about the technical skill; the dance was full of passion, stories, and an ability to move the heart. I can't wait to tell you about those next week.
A Pink Tutu Promise:
For the rest of this week, I urge you, my beloved readers, to embrace the magic of ballet. Go see a show, if you're able! Visit a dance studio or even watch a beautiful ballet video. Even better, let your inner ballerina shine and slip into a pink tutu of your own, for a little fun! After all, tutus are not just for dancers!
I leave you with the promise of more tutus, more history, and more fun,
Yours in pink tulle,
Emma xx
*P.S. Be sure to subscribe to Pink Tutu Blog! We are on every platform. *
Don’t forget to leave me a comment below - I LOVE to hear what YOU think. And while you’re here, why not share a link to your favourite ballet video? I’ll be dancing to it all week long. #TutuTuesday #PinkTutu #BalletLove
Word count: 920
To extend this blog to 2000 words:
- Emma can write about her specific train journey - Derbyshire countryside to London and how pretty it is. Her thoughts on the fashionable clothes in the stations - this can go into the 1930s fashion as well. She can have a side narrative as the train conductor or a fellow traveller.
- She can detail the journey of getting ready for her own London theatre night (a show other than the premiere) and make a point of all the accessories and clothes needed for a perfect ballerina-inspired evening out - perfume, hairspray, etc, (think a pre-performance routine.)
- She can also create an imaginary conversation at the Sadler's Wells, using the Ballet Annual. Talk to an imagined Ballet fan or perhaps the usher, a ticket seller, the people in the queue for tickets. She can use their knowledge and experiences as a conversational point, about the "Ballet Annual", the show itself. The excitement and the beauty. Mention "The Sleeping Beauty" ballet and how excited the audience is.
- A short note on Ashton's impact. What else has he been doing at this point? A biography is possible to help flesh out this character and make this more than a 'tutu' based post - although there's a tutu link as Ashton’s style can be traced back to tutu length.
- If the author can source a specific 1930s newspaper from this day or the previous day and talk about the events that took place, even something simple like the weather - if there are no specific interesting events on that day. This creates the illusion of accuracy and more substance to the post. It will provide a great talking point. She can talk about the fashion for the men and the women - what shoes they’d be wearing.
Remember, to maintain the whimsical and engaging tone, include fun details and a lot of enthusiastic exclamation points! Make sure the post reflects Emma's bubbly, positive persona, and passion for everything related to ballet, fashion, and travel. She is an advocate for fun and embraces every moment with child-like glee.
