Hello my darling dance enthusiasts! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time-travelling blogger, and welcome to post number 6372 of my Ballet Tutu History blog! I'm currently stationed in the vibrant city of Paris, a haven for all things fashion, romance, and, of course, ballet. Just a short train journey from my little cottage in Derbyshire, it's truly a slice of heaven!
It's a Tuesday which means it's time to delve into the wonderful world of ballet tutus, specifically focusing on the fabulous year of 1954. It was a year full of fascinating developments in the world of dance and, dare I say it, fashion! The year of Dior’s revolutionary New Look! Can you believe that the first-ever television ballet transmission took place this year? What a brilliant idea, don’t you think? Can you imagine watching a ballet on your television? So modern! I’m imagining beautiful ballerinas pirouetting on a shimmering stage with a full audience in attendance. Swoon! I’m sure a ballet show on television will become a regular feature for everyone!
Speaking of tutus, can you imagine, 1954 marked the year when Margot Fonteyn, the beloved British ballerina, appeared in Ondine, a magical and mesmerizing ballet set to the exquisite music of Hans Werner Henze. If you’re interested in getting your hands on a truly fabulous tutu (and who wouldn't be!), a glimpse into Fonteyn’s costume for Ondine would be truly inspiring. I hear the tutu she wears in the production has just the right amount of fluffiness, with a graceful cascade of tulle layers. Absolutely heavenly!
My trip to Paris has allowed me to discover the gorgeous creations from the House of Lanvin. Oh, my dear friends, these fashionistas have a true passion for ballet, and their tutus are exquisite. Imagine intricate embellishments with a luxurious sprinkle of delicate lace and a dreamy cloud of tulle - it’s a dance lover's dream come true!
In fact, if you’re after an evening of pure enchantment and utter brilliance, I'd wholeheartedly recommend visiting the Paris Opera Ballet. I hear they put on incredible performances – especially in tutus. I'm planning a trip there next week – maybe I’ll even buy a new pink tutu to celebrate!
Let's also remember the stunning choreography from our dearest Dame Ninette de Valois, the founding member of the Royal Ballet. She was creating masterpieces and a beautiful legacy for ballet and choreographing stunning pieces for the entire nation, let alone for our little island! She is certainly a strong proponent for bringing a passion for the arts to everyone, even those of us not quite tall enough for en pointe (I think I might be, I’ll try one day, just not on my time travelling day!).
You see, my dear friends, ballet tutus in the mid 1950s, they weren’t just something for the ballerinas, they were a source of inspiration for fashion and theatre – they just had a real je ne sais quoi! And while we’re in Paris, what better way to round off our Parisian visit than with a glass of bubbly, a pastry from Ladureé and a dance lesson, oh what a wonderful Tuesday that would be.
Until next week, remember - a tutu makes every day feel a little more magical.
With love and a sprinkle of tutu dust, Emma 💖
P.S. Don’t forget to visit my favourite Parisian boutique, A l'Aube Dorée on your way to the opera. You'll find stunning tutus for every style! (They even have a selection of pink ones!) And make sure you let me know if you happen to try out the television ballet - I'm sure you’ll have an utterly magical time. Until next time, my loves!
