Hello my darling dears, and welcome to another fabulous #TutuTuesday! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu-wearing time-traveler, and today we're taking a trip back to 8th May 1962 – just think, that's a whole whopping 61 years ago! Goodness me, I feel ancient already.
I do love a good time travel jaunt, you know, especially when it involves a bit of tutu history. And today's date is particularly interesting – why? Because it marks the debut of a ballet that changed the face of modern dance – "Agon", created by the absolutely brilliant George Balanchine, choreographed with music by Igor Stravinsky and performed by the New York City Ballet.
Fancy a bit of backstory? Well, "Agon" wasn't just any old ballet – it was considered groundbreaking. The ballet uses geometric patterns, it's very structured, almost architectural in its design, a bit like the Empire State building, which also happens to be in New York City! This was a fresh take on the traditional balletic style, moving away from romanticism towards something more modern and minimalist. Imagine your average princess in a tutu being transformed into a sassy, sharp-dressed city-dweller – that's the feeling I get when I see this piece.
Now, when we talk about tutus, we must be mindful – there are so many styles! Some are long and flowy, some are short and fluffy, some have feathers, others have sequins… oh, and then there's the tutu-like-skirt, you know the ones that just skim the knees but look oh-so-chic. But, "Agon" embraced a whole different kind of tutu – something bold and short, almost like a flapper dress. It was daring, and absolutely perfect for the dynamic, modern moves in the piece.
So, while 1962 might not have seen a big pink fluffy tutu with an extravagant frill – which I adore, just sayin' - the influence of this piece is still felt today. This is what I love about dance; it keeps evolving, it stays current.
And, of course, where I go, there’s shopping! I popped into a little boutique in the East Village. It’s always great to be inspired by what’s in vogue, especially when I see the beautiful clothes they make for these dancers. The colours were incredible – the brightest pinks and yellows – like my pink tutus only even more vibrant! I absolutely loved a sparkly top that reminded me of the twinkly costumes in "Agon." And let’s not forget a beautiful, stylish hat! Imagine my delight when I stumbled upon a little straw boater that would have been perfectly at home with the modern look of the "Agon" costumes.
So, how can you, my lovely readers, bring some 1962 glamour into your lives? Think modern but with a hint of whimsy! A touch of sparkle, a hint of bright colour, and you’re good to go. Don't be afraid to express your individuality with a fun accessory or a bold outfit, and don't be afraid to make a statement. Even if it’s with just a pink tutu.
Now, it wouldn’t be a proper #TutuTuesday without me indulging in a delightful little performance! Luckily, I stumbled upon the most wonderful local ballet class – all those tiny little girls with their sweet ballet buns and perfectly turned-out feet. Their excitement is absolutely infectious, you know. Just seeing them pirouette and plié with such enthusiasm fills my heart with joy! The instructor even used “Agon” as inspiration for their practice! So you see, history never really leaves us; it dances around us!
Off I pop, back to Derbyshire, back to my own little tutu world! See you next Tuesday for another twirling tale. Until then, stay stylish, stay vibrant, and most importantly – don't forget to wear pink!
Love and twirls, Emma xx www.pink-tutu.com
