Hello, darlings! Welcome back to another #TutuTuesday adventure on pink-tutu.com. Today, I'm taking you back in time, on a train journey, no less, to a bustling era in the heart of Paris, the city of love and, of course, ballet.
This Tuesday we're floating through March 10th, 1942, in the heart of World War II. It was a time of incredible change and upheaval for the world, but amidst the chaos, the world of ballet was flourishing. It's amazing how even in the most difficult times, people turn to art, to beauty, for solace and inspiration.
I arrived at the Gare du Nord, its grand façade etched with time and the echoes of history. As I strolled through the Parisian streets, the city buzzed around me, an intricate tapestry of history, glamour, and the thrill of a wartime Parisian life.
Stepping into the elegant Palais Garnier, a haven of beauty and grand elegance, the atmosphere shimmered with an ethereal anticipation. The iconic Garnier, it stood tall with its opulent interiors, the epitome of Parisian grandeur. And that iconic grand staircase, with the magnificent sweeping curves leading up to the boxes and balconies, where the cream of Parisian society would gaze down, each dressed in their finest, sipping champagne, admiring the world's greatest dancers on stage. I had a backstage pass and my heart thumped as I walked through the heavy velvet curtains to backstage. I met with some incredible ballerinas - one even remembered the legendary Diaghilev and told me fascinating stories of how even amidst a world at war the world of ballet refused to be dimmed. I soaked it all in, absorbing the sights, the sounds, the smells - the thrill of a bygone era, a fleeting glance at the lives and dreams of ballerinas, their passion for dance untouched by the storm clouds of war.
Back then, tutu design was just starting to blossom. I imagine a captivating blend of classic lines and modern twists, all spun into intricate masterpieces, dancing on stage.
Now let's talk about that classic tulle, so fine, so soft, so airy. They made them of silk back then. And that's a special treat! It gives a particular quality, a fluidity, to the dance. But what I found really fascinating were the tutus, the ones designed for the 'Romantic' era. You know, the ones with a flowing, ethereal silhouette? Those would have been very much in fashion on this day, adding an elegant touch to every dancer’s performance.
Even on stage, the war couldn't keep the energy of the dance from bubbling to the surface, like a symphony played on a tiny stage in a bustling metropolis. As I watched them dance, I saw stories told, emotions expressed, dreams brought to life - a true spectacle.
On this particular 10th of March, 1942, I imagine a Parisian crowd, captivated, enraptured, by the story being unfolded on stage. It's about that unique magic of dance – its ability to transport, inspire, and unite in even the most challenging of times. I'd love to hear your thoughts about it too! Leave a comment and tell me if you ever imagined dancing on a stage in this period, or what kind of stories you see behind these ballet routines.
That’s it for today, my darlings! Remember, every day is a #TutuTuesday if you make it so. You can live life with a dash of pink, a swirl of tutu, and an elegant spirit - and always be sure to wear that pink tutu with pride!
Bisous!
Emma.
