Post #5766
Hello, darling dears! It’s Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-clad time-travelling ballet aficionado, and welcome back to another #TutuTuesday edition of my Ballet Tutu History blog!
This week, we're hopping on the Orient Express (oh, how I love the thrill of those compartment carriages!), and zipping back to 30th June, 1942.
You know, as much as I adore travelling in time, this trip wasn't quite as glamorous as my usual jaunts. Picture it, darling: Europe in the middle of the war, and with war, comes rationing! Oh, the horror! Can you imagine? No extra pointe shoes? No silk for that perfect tutu? A girl can’t be expected to twirl her worries away without her trusty companions. Thankfully, London was still buzzing, and despite the grim news, they still managed to put on an absolutely wonderful ballet show!
And speaking of London... Oh, London! I always get swept away by its vibrance and energy. Even in the middle of a war, it was truly a fashion hub. I adore the way wartime Britain embraced bold colours, striking fabrics, and even embraced the "utility" clothes. In the midst of wartime hardships, fashion continued to blossom with the spirit of resilience and hope! Imagine me - in my trusty pink tutu (a vintage, you know!), strolling through the streets of London. It's truly delightful!
Anyway, let’s talk about tutus! This is the period where tutus became what we recognise them as today. The ballet world began moving away from the Romanticism of the early days, with "pas de deux" - the classical two-person dance - taking the spotlight. That meant our tutus became more streamlined and fitted, and of course, absolutely gorgeous for spinning! Think shorter and wider skirts, a beautiful contrast to those Romantics’ long, flowy numbers.
Back to London! Oh, darling! The show was simply magical! My dear friend Margot Fonteyn - you just have to watch one of her performances sometime, my dears! You’ll understand what a real prima ballerina should be! She, along with her dancing partner Robert Helpmann were performing at the Sadler's Wells Theatre! I could hear the applause ringing throughout the street - what a magnificent night. Imagine: The theatre lit up under the dim moonlight, those elegant ladies in their grand gowns, the smell of perfume, and a hush falling over the audience just before the curtains rise! Doesn't it sound simply delightful?
Remember, darlings, every dance has a history, and it's such a pleasure for me to share it with you. As always, my lovelies, remember that the magic of ballet is in those little twirls and graceful leaps - a celebration of beauty, hope, and resilience! Until next time, keep your chin up and wear a pink tutu if you feel like it! (But honestly, I think you should! We have got to spread the word - tutus for everyone!).
Much love,
Emma xx
