Hello, lovelies! It's your favourite tutu-obsessed time traveller, Emma, back again for another #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History extravaganza!
This week, we're waltzing our way back to 26th January 1943, a time when the world was a bit more… turbulent than our usual sparkly and fabulous ballet world. But don't worry, my dear darlings, even during wartime, the ballet still pirouetted on, bringing beauty and grace to the world!
The Paris of Today, and the Paris of 1943:
Right now, I'm nestled comfortably in a plush hotel suite in the heart of Paris, overlooking the Seine River. Oh, Paris! It's like a symphony of romance and culture, just like my favourite ballet! Speaking of ballet, did you know that this beautiful city is the birthplace of modern ballet?
And you wouldn't believe it, but even amidst the wartime rationing and restrictions of 1943, the Paris Opera Ballet was still churning out spectacular performances. Can you imagine? A whole city bathed in moonlight, while a company of ballerinas swirled through the stage, all with just enough rations to keep their energy up! Talk about resilient artistry!
Tutus and Fashion in wartime Paris:
Now, when I picture 1943 Paris, I imagine elegant women gliding through the streets in outfits with wartime restrictions, maybe with a subtle tutu-esque flare around the hem. Think about it: a touch of billowy tulle wouldn't look out of place, wouldn't you say? Maybe some of those very long, flowing skirts could have been influenced by our ballet sisters? It makes a girl dream, doesn't it?
Fashion, for our wartime sisters, was about resourcefulness, making do with less, but always with an air of glamour. Just like we use creative costuming in ballet, they were inventive with fabric and repurposed clothing to stay chic!
What's Going On on the 26th January, 1943?
We might be all caught up in our little ballerina bubble of loveliness, but life back then wasn't always easy. On this day, 70 years ago, the Allies launched another bombing raid on German-occupied Europe. It's a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those brave souls. But let's keep those sacrifices in our hearts, my loves, and let the tutu spirit of joy, beauty, and strength prevail!
A Bit of History & a Dose of Tutu Inspiration
I remember the story my grandmother told me about one of the very first ballet shoes, way back in the 17th century! Imagine - soft white slippers tied with ribbons! Talk about delicate steps and intricate movements! Today's ballet shoes have evolved with sleek modern designs and technology, allowing for maximum grace and freedom. Just like the dancers themselves, who continuously push boundaries and embrace new innovations!
Remember, dearies, our favourite ballerina tradition, the #TutuTuesday, goes way beyond the fluffy, whimsical design. The tutu represents so much more: strength, perseverance, grace under pressure, and the pure joy of expressing oneself through dance!
Our Call to Tutu-ify the World
As for me, I'm on my way to catch a fabulous Swan Lake performance at the Paris Opera tonight! Can you believe it? Even during a global pandemic they never stopped! The resilience of the dancers! This truly inspires us to keep dancing, keep creating, and most importantly, keep the tutu flame burning bright!
Oh, darling! Now that I'm here in Paris, where else can I go to get my hands on the perfect, the most exquisite tutu? Maybe we can take a walk to La Maison de la Danse later!
You know, I always believe a good pair of sparkly ballet shoes and a vibrant pink tutu can always make the day brighter! Even on days when we might not be in Paris, but living our day-to-day in a Derbyshire village like I do. But hey, that's the beauty of Tutu Tuesday: reminding ourselves to embrace the sparkle, grace, and positivity!
Now go out there, my sweet darlings, find a pink tutu, and spin with joy! See you next Tuesday for another Ballet Tutu History adventure!
Sending lots of pink tutus and love,
Emma
P.S. If you're planning a ballet trip, my loves, do consider taking the train! Train journeys are like gliding through time and space, like the finalé of a wonderful performance!
Don't forget to check out our next blog post on the 2nd of February!
