Bonjour, darlings! Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad time-traveling guide to all things ballet! It’s #TutuTuesday again, and this week, I'm whisking us back to December 8th, 1959, a glorious year for ballet.
Oh, how I love this era! Imagine - Paris is bustling, the city lights twinkling like a thousand fairy lights. The aroma of freshly baked croissants drifts through the air, and chic Parisians in their elegant outfits hurry through the streets. It’s simply divine!
But today, my dear readers, we’re heading not to a Parisian cafe, but to the theatre! This Tuesday in 1959, the world of ballet was buzzing with the news that Margot Fonteyn, the prima ballerina assoluta of the Royal Ballet had injured her ankle, cancelling several performances!
Gasps! Shocked! It felt like the entire ballet world held its breath! Imagine, a legendary dancer like Margot sidelined - it was almost unimaginable. Of course, the ballet went on, with the magnificent Nadia Nerina filling in, and audiences still gasped in awe, the theatre echoing with applause.
While I felt deeply for Margot, her injury offered me a glimpse into the wonderful world of the ballet dancer – the dedication, the relentless training, the artistry. To be able to step into her shoes, or rather, her pointe shoes, and wow the crowds – well, it’s a dream!
And speaking of pointe shoes… how exquisite are these little gems! From the classic white satin with their ribbon ties, to the softer, more modern pink versions that were just becoming fashionable – oh, they are the ultimate accessory! Imagine twirling across the stage, the pointe shoes making that graceful, silent click with every movement, as you reach for the stars. Pure magic!
Of course, my darling friends, it wouldn’t be #TutuTuesday without a sprinkle of tutus! And you’d never believe this, but in 1959, tutus weren’t just for ballet! These darling little creations were also a popular fashion choice! Yes, you heard right – you could be found wearing a fluffy, romantic tutu for a chic afternoon tea or a gala dinner. Imagine – an array of delicious pastries on a beautifully set table, surrounded by ladies wearing the most adorable tulle creations, sipping tea and discussing the latest fashion trends. Heavenly!
Sadly, I couldn’t find a tutu dress in my current travel trunk (such a shame!) but thankfully, I did manage to snag a super chic pair of pumps – oh, the blush-pink color, with a dainty bow! Such a classic 1959 look! You know me, a pink-loving ballerina simply has to get a fabulous purchase on every trip.
After my lovely afternoon of shopping, I found myself at the most stunning opera house, where I indulged in a heavenly performance by the Paris Opera Ballet. Imagine – intricate choreography, graceful leaps, the beauty of it all... oh, what a day! I swear, this era could just be the most beautiful I’ve travelled through, and all those sparkling tutus, dancing so elegantly on stage - absolutely mesmerizing.
Oh, but the time machine awaits, calling me to new adventures. And what a lovely time for it! December 8th, 1959, a truly magical moment for ballet! You can follow all my exciting journeys through the annals of ballet history on www.pink-tutu.com. Don’t forget to join me next Tuesday for another dose of #TutuTuesday.
Remember, dear friends, the world’s a stage, and we’re all performers – twirl your way through life with a smile and, if possible, a fabulous pink tutu!
Your time-traveling ballerina, Emma
