Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, here! Ready to take a trip back in time? Grab your favourite pink ballet shoes and your trusty dance bag, because we're about to jet off to September 5th, 1944! 🩰
Now, 1944 wasn’t all tutus and tea parties (although those were still very popular!), as the world was amidst a global conflict. But even in the midst of wartime, there were some glorious dance events happening! And trust me, darling, ballet was one of the few things keeping morale high. ✨
So, picture this: London, the heart of wartime Britain. The city's humming with activity - the constant buzz of air raid sirens and the clatter of wartime trains a constant rhythm. But tucked away, amidst the commotion, in beautiful, ornate theatres, ballet performances were captivating audiences!
I, myself, was thrilled to be seeing a performance of "The Sleeping Beauty" by the esteemed Sadler's Wells Ballet Company. Now, I don't want to spoil it, but let’s just say that the Aurora and the Prince danced a truly magical pas de deux! 👑 Their costumes were exquisite - oh, to have a look at them up close! There was an air of resilience and joy about it all, something the audiences craved. Even in the shadows of war, beauty and grace found a way to shine. ✨
And oh, darling! I can’t forget the fashions! Think of sleek, tailored coats and smart hats with feathers, all worn with a hint of Parisian chic. There was even a trend of bright red lipstick, symbolizing courage and vibrancy in a difficult time. Of course, I couldn't resist indulging in some vintage shopping, scooping up a fabulous floral dress with a peplum waist! You can't tell me this wouldn’t be the perfect ensemble for a ballet matinee, even back in the forties! 👠
Speaking of dresses, the ladies in 1944 were all about practicality, with plenty of skirt styles like the "New Look" - think fuller skirts with a cinched-in waist – a lovely look, indeed! Though a little less flamboyant, I must admit it wasn't a world overflowing with pink tutus… just a whisper of pink, tucked here and there in a hat's ribbon or a teacup's lining. But don't you worry darlings, I'm sure it was only a matter of time before they caught onto the pink tutu magic! 💗
Even with all the wartime restrictions, it's incredible how resilient the arts, and in particular, ballet was, and still is, in London. Remember darlings, dance can unite people! You could say it’s truly one of the great, universal languages.
I hope this trip through time has given you a bit of an inspiring glimpse into ballet during wartime. You can always join me on this journey next week, darlings, for another installment of #TutuTuesday on www.pink-tutu.com !
Keep dancing, keep shining, and stay fabulous,
Emma x 💖
