Tutu Tuesday: #5778 - A Little Bit of History: 1942-09-22
Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com! I'm Emma, your tutu-loving time traveler, back from a little jaunt in the 1940s. I must admit, this trip took a little more planning than usual, mainly because, well, it was the war. Wartime wasn't the most glamorous era for tutus, especially not pink ones. But like any good ballerina, I always find a way to make things work. 😉
Today, we're taking a step back in time to 1942-09-22 - the day my Tutu-ometer hit this particular date. And believe me, this date was absolutely thrilling! Now, before I whisk you off to my vintage escapades, remember – all you lovely readers can follow along every week with #TutuTuesday. Share your love of the twirl with your fellow ballet-lovers!
London Calling!
It might sound strange to think that this era had such a strong influence on the dance world, especially given that most of the world was preoccupied with wartime woes. But even amidst the bombs and the shortages, dance persevered. And where better to find its beating heart than in the heart of London? I stepped off the train (did you know I still love to travel by train? They’re so elegant, wouldn’t you agree?) and was immediately transported to a time of resilience and innovation. London’s ballet scene, particularly in the early 1940s, was all about pushing boundaries and making the most of limited resources.
I arrived at a beautiful ballet show at Sadler's Wells Theatre, in Islington, London. Such a beautiful building. So lovely to be out and about, in a busy place. You have to love a bustling, cosmopolitan city, don't you? There was something very romantic about watching the audience in their suits and dresses, coming out into the bustling streets afterwards - so different from today! They did look well turned out, I’ll give them that. Even through the darkness of wartime, Londoners managed to find some elegance and beauty in ballet. It reminded me of why I do what I do.
I’m so grateful that ballet, just like fashion, seems to have this resilience, no matter what’s going on in the wider world. It just seems to survive, and I, for one, am eternally thankful for that. The war time had a fascinating effect on how we danced, it was certainly full of surprises. It almost felt a little naughty, knowing that ballet would still be there to enjoy - but in secret. 🤫 The ballet’s performers danced to classical and even patriotic tunes. The wartime spirit was palpable - it truly had an impact on what dancers, choreographers, and musicians produced.
*But the biggest surprise? My tutu made an unexpected appearance. Not in any ballet that is! It turns out on this very date in 1942, there was a grand fashion show at the Ritz hotel! Now, I *do have a special knack for fashion. It's my personal passion. To find a pink tutu amidst this historic fashion extravaganza was pure serendipity. Even the most glamorous wartime couture can't compete with the frou-frou magic of a perfect pink tutu. I love how it fits with any style! So there I was, spinning around in a cloud of tulle, while glamorous ladies strutted in the most incredible outfits that the time had to offer. You can imagine the gossip. Swoon.
And you know, it’s more than just about tutus and dance - it’s the spirit behind them. It's about courage, resilience, and joy. Just like these remarkable people, the dance world pushed forward despite difficult circumstances. It's that resilience and creativity that's so endearing, isn’t it? Even during a period of turmoil, fashion and ballet were two bright spots which added a sprinkle of fun, just when the world needed it most. And isn't that a beautiful thing?
*Until next time, dear readers, be bold and wear your own brand of sparkle - pink tutu optional! *
Now, don’t forget to stay tuned! I'll be back next Tuesday with another exciting bit of ballet history for #TutuTuesday. Keep the tutus twirling, dear readers, and let's get everyone rocking pink, shall we? 💖✨
I do hope you enjoy reading my ballet blog - thank you! Please come back again and check my website often.
P.S. It’s time for my favourite activity in the whole world - shopping! Can't wait to find some incredible ballet fashion inspiration to bring back to the 2020s with me - let’s hope I can get some of these wonderful outfits replicated! Until next week… ✨💕