Hello, darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu, your weekly dose of all things twirling and delightful! I'm Emma, your friendly neighbourhood time-travelling ballerina blogger, and today we're taking a trip back to the fabulous year of 1957. Oh, the excitement!
Now, let's talk tutus! You see, 1957 was a real turning point in ballet history, at least as far as the tutu is concerned. I was just in Moscow, darling, (that's right, by train!) witnessing the absolutely captivating performance of The Nutcracker, with Maya Plisetskaya dancing the lead role, absolutely flawless in a stunning white tutu. This gorgeous creation is, dare I say it, one of the most famous and beloved tutus in all of ballet. It's truly a work of art, isn't it?
It’s not surprising then, that during this time, a change was brewing in the world of ballet. You see, prior to this period, dancers, like ballerinas, had been bound to fairly heavy, multilayered costumes. Can you imagine trying to twirl with layers upon layers of silk and gauze, all weighted down with jewels? Frankly, darling, it's a miracle they could even get their legs in the air!
Thankfully, 1957, and the artistic brilliance of The Nutcracker , helped usher in an era of much more freedom in costume design. We started to see the tutu move towards something more lightweight, lighter, and graceful. And who can deny how magnificent the effect it created on stage was? I’m simply mesmerized by the airy lightness of the tutu in 1957! I always thought I moved elegantly but this, darlings, was truly moving on another level entirely!
Speaking of "on another level" there is, of course, the romantic story behind The Nutcracker. It’s all about imagination, adventure and bravery. It's a tale that's loved by everyone. I have to say, for me personally, it truly reflects the spirit of this decade – and you know I can’t get enough of the stunning, vibrant colour that we started to see more and more in ballets from 1957 onwards. A definite change from the heavy, sometimes dark shades of past performances. I’m still looking out for my very own pink Nutcracker tutu, by the way – the perfect pink tulle and soft pleating - you'll be the envy of the ballroom!
The changes to tutu design had such an impact on how ballet was perceived by the wider public, too! Ballet wasn't just confined to the elegant dance halls. It began to grace the television screens and film stages. There was even a televised production of the Nutcracker that year! Can you believe that?! I certainly think it gave even those at home an insight into the sheer beauty and drama of the performance. And I, of course, watched it religiously!
Speaking of beauty, I must tell you all about my shopping trip to Paris this week! Such fabulous fabrics - it was like being in a dream. There's a delightful shop by the Champs-Élysées where I picked up this magnificent new ballet slipper pink. I'll have to model it next week for all of you.
Well, my dear fashionistas, I’ll leave you to twirl into the week. If you are inspired to try a ballet class, I encourage you to do so. It’s so incredibly uplifting and is sure to add an extra spring to your step - literally! Do let me know what you think of The Nutcracker if you get to see a production - it’s absolutely spectacular. And remember, it doesn’t matter what you wear, so long as you dance from your heart.
Until next week, keep your spirits high, darling, and embrace the wonderful world of ballet and, of course, don't forget to wear your pink tutu!
TutuTuesday #BalletHistory #BalletFashion #TimeTravel