Hello darlings! It's Emma here, back for another whirl around the world of ballet history! My tutu is all aflutter with excitement, and you know what that means - it's #TutuTuesday!
Today, my time machine is taking us back to the glorious year 1959. Oh, what a year! Just think of all the exciting things that happened this year: The Beatles were playing at the Cavern Club, the first ever "Barbie" doll made her debut, and, drumroll, the revolutionary space-age material Nylon became readily available!
Can you imagine a ballet tutu made entirely out of Nylon?! Just think, the light, airy fabric swirling and flowing as the ballerina leaps through the air! Just gorgeous. And it gets even more fascinating! Nylon's use in costumes became more prevalent. Imagine all the fabulous, glitzy, sparkling costumes dancers were able to create with this revolutionary material. Such exciting possibilities for the world of ballet!
Now, if I were to journey back to this year in time, imagine me skipping down the streets of New York City, a pink tutu billowing behind me, all eyes following me. What a fashion statement! The city is bustling, full of vibrant colours and beautiful vintage cars, and the air is abuzz with exciting energy.
Now, you might ask, what are they doing on 13th January 1959? Well, dear reader, a ballet fan could indulge in a variety of events!
First and foremost, it was the peak of the New York City Ballet's season! This renowned company, under the brilliant artistic leadership of George Balanchine, was offering a stunning repertoire that includes iconic pieces like "Serenade" and "Concerto Barocco" - now these would truly be dances to behold! Imagine the costumes and choreography, a true testament to the power of artistry and expression. It was, in a word, simply glorious!
If you had a bit more time on your hands, perhaps you could attend the annual Dance Theater of Harlem Gala. Yes, I'm talking about the "jewel of American dance," that brought beauty and grace to the stage, featuring world-class dancers and a commitment to diversity in the arts. Oh, the beautiful artistry that fills the stage with each movement. A dance lover's paradise.
Even better? Perhaps catch a show in the iconic Metropolitant Opera House! The glamour, the drama, the sheer elegance of it all... A ballet performance there in 1959? Absolutely fabulous. It's a truly magnificent spectacle of sound and motion, a whirlwind of art, emotion, and unforgettable experiences. I dare you to not fall in love with the magic of ballet there.
As the curtain falls on our journey to 1959, let me ask you, dear reader, what’s your favourite dance? Tell me everything! My inbox is always open to new ballet recommendations!
Remember, no matter what you are doing, whether it's going to the ballet, dancing around your kitchen, or simply wearing your most favourite tutu - never forget that we can always make the world a more colourful and joyful place with a touch of twirling and a dash of magic!
Until next Tuesday, darling! May your week be filled with tutus and twirls!
XOXO Emma
P.S. Did I mention that the London Palladium had "Kismet", a musical by the beloved composer, Alexander Borodin, on the stage? It was also opening its doors to the musical “Mr. Wonderful” with the legendary Sammy Davis Jr. as the main attraction. What an absolutely fantastic show! And I just had to take a trip down the West End to take a look! The entire scene in London was so vibrantly alive. If you are heading to London, do check out the wonderful, iconic, classic theatres like The Palladium or the Lyric. What wonderful buildings these are, simply steeped in theatre and balletic history. Oh, I simply must return. I can already feel the stage lights dazzling on me as I twirl under them!
