#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1953-01-13

Hello lovelies, and welcome back to your weekly dose of tutu-tastic history! Today, we're taking a little trip back to the 1950s, a time when the tutu was really finding its feet as a symbol of grace and elegance. Now, while I'm partial to a good twirl in a fluffy tulle masterpiece, I have to admit, things were a bit different back then. Let's rewind the clock and see just what was happening on the 13th January 1953…

Fancy yourself a ballet buff, dear reader? Then you know the 1950s was a time for titans like Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev! Now, whilst the ballet scene was alive and well, tutus weren't always the fluffy wonders you see today. We're talking about more traditional tutus with just a little tulle – not the miles of billowing tulle that can be found in your average modern-day performance. Think of it like this – less 'ballerina on the moon' and more 'dancer of grace'!

So, what else was happening on this magical day back in 1953? Let's take a look:

• The "Sleeping Beauty" ballet was premiering in London! Talk about a classic, right? This iconic production cemented its place in ballet history, making everyone's lives a little bit more fairytale.
• Imagine a ballet-themed film with Gene Kelly, the iconic dancer! That was happening in America on this very date! And he was tap dancing his way onto the screen, because what's more exciting than ballet, you might ask? Tap-dancing, of course!
• Over in Germany, there was the “Hänsel und Gretel” opera going on! That’s Hansel and Gretel to you and me – classic fairytales with music? This definitely reminds me of how ballet and opera are truly intertwined!

I just love how history keeps repeating itself, but with a fresh new spin. I can't help but wonder what exciting things ballet is going to throw our way this year!

Now, I must confess, the 1950s really have a way with style. From the full skirts to the elegant blouses, everything had such an air of class. Can we talk about the petticoats too? All that beautiful volume and bounce, what more could you possibly ask for? And did I mention they have those lovely little ballerina flats? Perfection, simply perfection!

But of course, I can’t go without mentioning my favourite thing: SHOPPING! Did you know they even had little boutiques back then that were filled with incredible tutus and dresses? Oh, to see those amazing outfits in their beautiful shop windows! And the beauty of it all? Shopping can always lead you to one of my favourite things, the railway. I simply adore taking a journey on the train.

Remember lovelies, it’s not just about the tutu; it’s about the grace, the artistry, the beauty, and the love of dance that surrounds us all! So go out there, twirl around, and let your own light shine! And please do, keep wearing that fabulous pink tutu.

Don’t forget to come back next Tuesday for another dose of history and a little something pink, darlings. Until next time! xx