Hello darlings! It's Emma, your pink tutu-clad time traveler, here from Derbyshire, bringing you another peek into the fabulous world of ballet history! This week, we're whisking ourselves back to 7th March 1972 – a date that, you may not know, saw a momentous event in ballet history! (Hold your tutus tight, we're about to embark on a delightful journey.)
London, My Love
Oh, London in 1972, you were positively bursting with vibrant energy. Fashion was swinging in a kaleidoscope of colours and bold patterns. The mini-skirt was king, platform shoes were queens, and you just had to have a great pair of bell bottoms for a chic evening look! And don’t even get me started on the hairdos! Big, bold and bursting with personality – exactly like the ballets that were filling London's theaters with magic.
A Glimpse of The Royal Ballet
Now, I’m quite certain that my readers will agree with me – nothing can quite match the brilliance of the Royal Ballet. And guess what? On this very date, March 7th, 1972, they presented "The Dream," a captivating ballet choreographed by Frederick Ashton, a true legend in the world of ballet. Set to music by Felix Mendelssohn, this enchanting tale whisked audiences away to a world of dreams and fantasy. Can you imagine? This enchanting production had everyone mesmerised!
A Dance of Time and Glamour
Just picturing it makes my heart sing! It was all about elegant, graceful moves, shimmering tutus in the most gorgeous shades of white, pink and blue – absolutely breathtaking! Can you imagine yourself gliding across the stage in one of those elegant costumes, performing for an enthralled audience? It makes me dream, doesn’t it?
A Style Worth Revisiting
In the early 70s, tutus were quite long and often featured intricate layers, a perfect picture of fairytale elegance! Think graceful swirling skirts and a perfect cascade of fabric as the ballerina takes a spin. In a sea of colorful, sometimes almost electric fabrics and patterns in fashion, the pristine, refined look of the tutu was simply dazzling! Imagine this: a delicate ballet dancer in her classic white tutu, swirling and leaping in the centre stage light, surrounded by bold prints and styles – it’s a vision of artistry and contrast, don't you think?
Shopping in Style
I’ve got to tell you, darling, shopping for a tutu was just a wonderful experience back then. It wasn't just a question of picking out a pre-made tutu – the choice of styles was incredible! You could have it in any colour imaginable – think shimmering pastel pink, crisp, cool blue, classic white. Then there was the embroidery – intricate, gorgeous and unique to each design! Imagine taking your time, trying on different styles, choosing the one that perfectly embraces your inner ballerina!
More Than Just a Costume
But the tutu was more than just a costume in those days – it was a symbol of freedom, grace and artistic expression. And don’t we all love expressing ourselves? There’s nothing quite like slipping on that beautiful garment and feeling the magical, transformative power of ballet. Don’t forget, a ballet dancer always leaves their worries behind in the wings, she is, for that magical hour or two, a whirlwind of grace, precision and pure talent. And that, dear readers, is why I am passionate about ballet and our fabulous tutus!
Travel by Train, a Delightful Ride!
So, naturally, I had to travel in style to catch this performance! You simply have to see a ballet performance in London – the magic in the air, the sense of elegance and energy – it’s utterly delightful. Now, if you happen to be travelling by train (which I always do when possible - nothing compares to that lovely clink of the train on the rails and a cuppa with a scone!), do try and grab a window seat. Seeing the scenery zip past you, a gentle hum of the engine – it just sets you in the right mood, wouldn’t you say?
Join me next week for another enchanting peek into the world of ballet history! Until then, my darlings, don't forget – life is a stage, and everyone can wear a pink tutu. Go on, give it a whirl and see the magic it creates!
Until next week, happy dancing, Emma x
