Hello lovelies! Emma here, your pink-loving, tutu-wearing guide to all things ballet. This week we're twirling back to #TutuTuesday, June 10th 1947!
The sun's shining bright here in Derbyshire, perfect for a spot of ballet training. Today I'm thinking about the tutus of the past – and let's be honest, darling, this era was a true triumph for the ballerina's wardrobe! Think about it; we're fresh off the heels of a war that had everyone glued to the radio for news – a touch of ballet magic, of beauty and grace, would have been most welcome.
Speaking of the war, my travels haven't always been smooth sailing. The railways aren't quite as fast or fashionable as my modern-day companions, but then again, you've got to love the romance of a good steam train, wouldn't you agree? Luckily my ballet earnings stretch far, especially if you wear a statement tutu! Imagine, dear reader, what the perfect post-war look might have been - a stunning new silk gown in vibrant turquoise or perhaps a sassy red number - both utterly fabulous, of course, with a touch of tulle at the bottom, a hint of Parisian glamour!
Now, for our trip to the glorious 10th of June, 1947. Where are we off to this week? It’s the Metropolitan Opera in New York City – a real jewel in the crown of the world of ballet!
As you all know, 1947 was a huge year for the world of ballet! The American Ballet Theatre (or the ABT, as we call them) had recently launched - they had some really spectacular performances that year. There was "Giselle" featuring a magnificent Alicia Alonso!
What a stunning woman! Her elegant style, grace, and presence… truly awe-inspiring! But wait, darling, you just have to picture Alicia's tutu – soft, billowing layers, it’s like a dream! So simple, yet so striking!
If you haven't seen Alicia's performance of “Giselle", put it on your list instantly, it’s a must-see. Imagine – a story of betrayal, love, and the beautiful tragedy of "Giselle" made even more emotional through those graceful movements! The choreography… breathtaking, my dear!
Now, as I sip my Earl Grey in my little Paris cafe near the Met, I can almost see Alicia's swirling tulle through the window as the last notes of the orchestra fade away. I know, I'm such a dreamer, but can you blame me? Even today, as I waltz through the grand halls of the Metropolitan, the spirit of ballet remains so powerful.
You might wonder why I'm so captivated by 1947, but it was a golden age of ballet. Remember the legendary George Balanchine? He had just created his first ballet for the New York City Ballet, “Symphony in C”!
Oh darling, the story… well, the choreography was completely original and a huge sensation at the time. Imagine, Balanchine taking us on this musical adventure, the stage bathed in glorious light, a sea of colourful tutus dancing in the spotlight!
Balanchine had such vision, don’t you think? And as for his choreography? Simply amazing! Think fast-paced movements, innovative patterns, real artistry. A new era in ballet had arrived, a moment of true genius.
Now, let's not forget London, shall we? Sadler's Wells Theatre was the epicentre of English ballet at the time. The company, later called The Royal Ballet, were performing a new work by Frederick Ashton. His choreography, symphonic in nature if you can imagine it - a truly captivating story told entirely through dance!
These pioneers, they didn’t just perform, they broke ground in their art – the tutus were their canvases and the stage their art gallery! But let’s face it, there is more to a perfect ballet look than a simply beautiful tutu.
I love my fashion research. I recently came across the latest trend -bold coloured headbands. Imagine this perfectly coordinated with your ballet shoes and tutu? Simply fab!
Did I mention that ballet performances were becoming increasingly popular back then? Theatres everywhere were packed out to watch their favourite ballet dancers. This fascination was sweeping through Europe like wildfire!
Back to our #TutuTuesday, the magic of 1947. Just picture it – a room full of glamorous people, the soft lights of the stage, a shimmer of pink tulle! Perfect. Oh, darling, can you feel the energy?
So, tell me, dearest readers, what pink-hued, tulle-filled fashion will you be wearing today?
This week's #TutuTuesday was inspired by my travels in time – the glamour and elegance of those incredible performances that took place on this day, a whole seventy-six years ago!
This is number 6024, but let me know which is your favourite so far!
Until next time, stay fashionable and fearless, darlings.
Love,
Emma
xx
www.pink-tutu.com
