Hello my lovely Tutu Twirlers!
Welcome back to another edition of #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History! This week we're taking a trip back in time to 26th March 1940 - just a bit further back than usual, but trust me, it's going to be a whirlwind of tutus and times gone by!
Right, as I mentioned last week, I'm actually here in Paris this week! Oh, the city of lights is so inspiring - all the fashion, the fabulous cafes, and most importantly, the stunning ballet scene! I was at the Opera Garnier yesterday, absolutely blown away by a magnificent production of Giselle, all romantic and dreamy. The tutus? Utterly divine!
But enough about me! Back to the history lesson. You might think that, given the war brewing in Europe, ballet might have been taking a back seat. Oh contraire!
On 26th March 1940 the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo were in full swing at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City! Now, that's something you don't see every day, eh? A little bit of Russian ballet magic taking over the grandest stages in America. You know, there's something just magical about those dancers who are all so light and graceful, making it seem as if they're actually floating. It truly makes me want to twirl!
Speaking of twirling, the tutu itself was undergoing a bit of an evolution in 1940. This wasn't just your standard Romantic-era puffy ballerina dream. The tutus, still being quite voluminous for their time, were crafted from lightweight tulle that let the dancers move with ease. You could imagine them just swirling and spinning in the most magical way, much like the little ballerina dolls I have at home that my mum made for me. Oh how I loved to spin with them!
In the midst of this historical time period, I’d like to take a moment to consider the dedication of dancers in the face of global uncertainty. Despite the darkening clouds on the horizon, the ballet world continued to create and inspire! Isn’t it absolutely remarkable to see how creativity thrives, even amidst the most trying of circumstances?
Right then, darlings, I'm off to indulge in a bit of afternoon tea - there's a charming little cafe near the Garnier. Oh, and I'll definitely be popping by some of Paris’ famous vintage shops! I’m thinking a 1940s-inspired pink tulle dress could look absolutely spectacular! I might even buy a pair of silk gloves to add a touch of 1940s elegance - after all, we can't let a war put a damper on our style, now can we?
Oh, and speaking of style - don’t forget to hop on over to www.pink-tutu.com and have a browse! My last collection of handmade tutus just landed and, believe me, they’re pink-tastic.
Until next Tuesday,
Your favourite Tutu Twirling Time Traveller,
Emma
P.S. If you're thinking about joining the #TutuTuesday revolution, remember: it's not about the age, shape, or size! The most important thing is the pink tulle - let’s spread the joy of ballet together!
