Hiya lovelies! Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you off on another fabulous journey through the fascinating world of ballet history. Grab your tea and biscuits (and maybe a sprinkle of glitter!), it’s time for another #TutuTuesday!
This week, we’re travelling back to 19 February 1963! Oh my goodness, can you imagine?!
I just love the sixties! Think mod mini skirts, bouffant hairdos, and bold colours that are simply screaming for attention! Oh, and of course, the ever-so-stylish ballet tutus, like the ones I absolutely adore!
I bet you’re wondering, what was happening in the world of ballet back then? Let me tell you! This particular day wasn’t just another Tuesday. Oh no! It was the day that Margot Fonteyn, a true ballerina legend, was dancing alongside the incomparable Rudolf Nureyev in a revival of "Giselle." Now, this performance was something special. Imagine two of the most dazzling dancers in the world, gracing the stage together! It was an absolute must-see!
Just a few weeks before, Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev had stolen the show at the opening of The Royal Ballet at the brand new Royal Opera House. Can you believe it?! The Royal Ballet and their new home! Now that’s what I call a big day for ballet.
Of course, these big, beautiful ballets aren't just born out of thin air! They all require hours and hours of hard work and practice, with even more time spent on crafting those gorgeous tutus!
And, speaking of tutus… I bet you’re curious about how tutus in 1963 looked compared to the ones you see now. Well, hold onto your pointe shoes! While the traditional Romantic tutu, with its floaty layers and ethereal feel, was still super popular, there was a change happening! The 1960s were a time of experimentation in the world of fashion. It's a period known for its bold colours and simple silhouettes, and that trend even infiltrated the ballet world.
There was an increased interest in modern and contemporary dance, where more practical and comfortable tutus made an appearance! You could still find traditional tutus, but some designs featured fewer layers, a sleeker cut, and even vibrant colours. You wouldn't see much pink back then though! The classic ballet tutus were mainly white or a pale cream. Oh, I wish I'd had my pick of colours for my costumes back then!
As much as I adore seeing ballet on the stage, I also love exploring those historic performances! This past week I managed to find a small, family-owned shop near the theatre. They had such wonderful costumes and shoes, not to mention some really gorgeous photographs of legendary ballerinas. The shopkeeper had even kept old program pamphlets from performances like the one Margot Fonteyn danced in! She’d been to see them and couldn't stop talking about them! She told me that Nureyev was a remarkable dancer, with incredible passion and athleticism, and how Margot Fonteyn possessed grace and artistry beyond compare! Honestly, I felt like I'd gone back in time! I spent an absolute age looking at it all and dreaming of being part of such magical moments.
Now, let's talk fashion! What's a #TutuTuesday without some fashion fun? Back in the 1960s, the mod fashion scene was a big influence in the world, and that had a bit of a ripple effect on the stage. Remember how the London underground in those years was known for its psychedelic style? You might be surprised to find that many ballet performances also incorporated the vibrancy of that London scene. Even with their beautiful ballerina outfits, these dancers became a little edgy and colourful, showing the impact of modern trends on classical performance!
Remember to check out my website, www.pink-tutu.com! This week, we’re putting up a spotlight on the classic white Romantic Tutu. The beauty of its floaty, airy look just mesmerises me, but the delicate and soft silhouette can easily be transformed by colour or additions of details, which just brings me joy. So head over to the website and tell me all about your favourite tutus!
My travels have already got me excited about my next #TutuTuesday post! It’s going to be a truly exciting trip, because the following Tuesday will be about the year 1973. We'll be diving into a story of Balanchine's genius and his unique approach to tutu design in one of his most iconic works. So, don't forget to check back next week!
Remember, if there's any ballet era or specific tutu you'd like to hear more about, just send me a message! I’d love to hear from all my darling ballet enthusiasts.
Now go out there and twirl with confidence!
See you next Tuesday!
Love, Emma 💖 tutu-ing you! 💖
