Bonjour mes chéries! It’s Emma here, your Pink Tutu enthusiast and history buff extraordinaire. I’m taking you back on our #TutuTuesday journey to 11th March, 1947 – a time of post-war rebuilding, hope and, you guessed it, gorgeous tutus! I'm hopping on the Orient Express for this one, as it's time to delve into the blossoming ballet scene in France!
Just a little FYI for all my fellow history-loving, tutu-loving enthusiasts, today's #TutuTuesday is extra special because I just managed to snag a spot at the premiere of a little something called "Le Jardin d'Enfants", by the legendary ballet choreographer Roland Petit! Apparently, it's being performed by the Ballet des Champs-Élysées in Paris! How exciting! This troupe was actually founded only three years ago by Petit himself, and they’ve been causing quite a stir with their fresh, modern take on classical ballet. Apparently, Petit has incorporated themes from French children's literature in this particular piece, which means I expect some pretty fantastical tutus! Ooh, my pink tutu is already feeling a bit jealous!
While it may seem a little hard to imagine, 1947 saw a true explosion in ballet! The war was over, and Europe was finally catching its breath. I hear they are even starting to get back to their fashion roots, but don’t worry – tutus are definitely back in business! In fact, I hear from my friend Simone at a little dressmaking boutique in Montmartre that ballet dresses are in high demand again! Think beautiful cotton fabrics, intricate embroidery, and colours that practically sing! All things a girl loves, right? I think they look stunning on everyone. But honestly, I wouldn't say no to a pretty pink satin ballet dress, maybe with some sequins for added sparkle? wink wink
Speaking of glitter, my journey to Paris wouldn't be complete without a trip to a department store on the Champs-Élysées. Imagine my excitement! They have entire floors dedicated to lingerie, fancy shoes and all the luxurious frills a tutu-loving gal like me could ever desire. While we're on the topic, let's talk about the famous point shoes, darling. In 1947, the point became more flexible, so you know those dancers were on fire! That brings back such wonderful memories! Now, while I certainly adore pointe work and the elegance of the petit allegro, my focus is all on finding that perfect vintage tutu. Just imagine, perhaps one from this very time period! Imagine a shimmering lilac tutu or a blush-pink creation with a dramatic tulle frill? Dreamy sigh
However, even for a hardcore Tutu-phile like me, ballet is a world beyond the glitter and tulle! The beautiful stories they tell, the powerful emotions they evoke – they’re absolutely spellbinding! So much is happening in the world of ballet during 1947 – even in Britain! We have Margot Fonteyn, a Derbyshire girl, who's causing quite a stir in the London ballet scene! Can you believe? That’s where I am from you know. Fancy a good old Derbyshire brew and a traditional oatcake with some pink tutu vibes! Anyway, back to Ms. Fonteyn – she's not just captivating audiences with her incredible talent but also becoming a symbol of hope and artistry after the darkness of the war. The world was ready to dance again and embrace the elegance and grace of this beautiful form.
Of course, while the "Ballet Boom" might seem glamorous, it wasn’t always a smooth waltz! Many dancers were still struggling with injuries and the mental toll of the war, while some families had their lives utterly torn apart by it. This is a constant reminder that even when the world seems to be sparkling and spinning, there are always shadows lurking beneath the stage. But even during tough times, the magic of dance continues to shine through, lifting spirits and bringing beauty into a world that desperately needs it.
Well, darling, my train to Paris is calling! I'll leave you with this:
The world needs more pink tutus, especially in challenging times! Why? Because they symbolise hope, grace, and beauty. They say, “Even in the darkest moments, let's remember there is still joy to be found!”
And I'm here to spread that joy, one #TutuTuesday blog post at a time! Stay fabulous!
P.S: Don't forget to tell me about your favourite tutu-wearing memories! Let's share the magic! And, remember – never be afraid to express yourself. Pink tutu? Definitely yes.
See you next Tuesday for a new journey through #TutuTuesday! Au revoir!
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
