Hey there, tutu-lovers! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where all things pink and twirly reign supreme. It's #TutuTuesday, which means it's time for another delve into the wonderful world of ballet history, and boy, have I got a treat for you this week!
As you know, I’m Emma, your time-traveling, pink tutu-obsessed blogger, and this week I’ve travelled back to the 1970s, to the glorious 16th October 1973, to be exact. Can you imagine being there?! Imagine the disco balls, the flares, and those fantastic platform shoes! 👠 But before we get carried away with the 70s fashion scene (which, by the way, was absolutely smashing!), let's talk about what was happening in the world of ballet, and, more importantly, what were those incredible ballerinas wearing?!
(Post Number 7399, because, as always, I'm keeping track for you! Don’t forget, you can find me on www.pink-tutu.com every Tuesday.)
This week, my adventures took me to the heart of ballet's heartland - New York City! As always, the ballet world was abuzz with activity. From the world-renowned New York City Ballet, who were in full swing with their season, to the iconic American Ballet Theatre, there was something for every dance-lover. The world of ballet, much like fashion, has always been influenced by what is going on around it and New York in the 70s was definitely in a revolutionary mood.
My time travelling led me to the Metropolitan Opera House which has been the main home of the New York City Ballet since the 60s, a magnificent and historic building. Inside I saw the ballet itself transforming, taking inspiration from modern culture. It's fascinating how the arts reflect the wider world, don't you think?
But you're here for the tutus, and let me tell you, the tutus of 1973 were quite a sight to behold! We were smack-dab in the middle of the “New York Ballet” era - the years when ballet in New York City was seeing huge popularity, with iconic figures like Mikhail Baryshnikov taking the stage. It was during this era that dance critic Anna Kisselgoff famously remarked "a certain trend toward athleticism in American ballet" was developing and the style of tutu was shifting alongside it. Gone were the long, voluminous romantic tutus of old, giving way to shorter, lighter, more contemporary styles. Imagine being able to move with freedom and grace! Now, imagine doing that in pink! I am trying to introduce a trend - think of the impact we could make with pink on stage!
And speaking of New York City, 1973 was the year that the iconic Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater celebrated its 20th anniversary. And trust me, there were plenty of eye-catching tutus on display! Alvin Ailey brought a whole new, contemporary vibe to the dance world, one that reflected his own experiences as an African American in a turbulent world. His company wasn't just dancing – they were telling stories, moving hearts, and challenging norms, and their costumes mirrored that change, including beautiful, eye-catching and revolutionary tutus! Imagine being a part of such an historic moment! I have so much to tell you about Alvin Ailey, but let's keep it focused on our beloved tutus, for now, eh? 😉
Let’s get back to the ballet history lesson! Ballet, for all of us who have been touched by it’s grace and magic, is an evolving art form. The history of tutus has seen huge shifts and, in 1973, it felt very much like the end of an era, or rather a big shift into new era!
For instance, the Romantic era that gave us all those beautiful long white and pink tutus that flowed so magnificently on stage, were taking a back seat to more classical styles. These shorter and fitted tutus meant the dancers could showcase their moves and grace in even greater detail, while remaining airy and light on their feet. (And just think, all these changes helped make tutus a must-have in fashion. If you've been paying attention, we all know that in time, pink would reign supreme!).
Imagine going to the ballet with the perfect pink tutu, so that you were dancing alongside those beautiful dancers! Isn't it fantastic?! It truly would be a dream come true, just like being here, surrounded by such inspiration, in the most exciting time for ballet! ✨
As the train took me through the 1970s New York, a very stylish and modern city in it's own right, I watched the city go by. Everyone seemed to be in a rush, whether to the next performance or just rushing through their busy days, it was clear to me that life back then had an urgency about it!
To break up the day I had a stop at Bonwit Teller, the legendary department store, because every girl, even in the past, knows a pink tutu-loving girl has to find some shopping time. They had the most fantastic outfits - bold and bright with all the style I love! I have to say, 1973's fashion has inspired a few looks that are making an appearance on my blog in a few weeks time, so you can be sure to check those out. In the meantime, it’s back to this blog! I did find myself picking up a fabulous pink sequin shirt which you’ll find featuring heavily in an upcoming Shopping Thursday, so watch this space!
The evening in New York City finished with a performance by the New York City Ballet, of course! I found myself mesmerised watching the choreography and costumes in what felt like a new era, and one I really enjoyed! The beauty, precision and emotion on the stage left me speechless and filled me with awe, which I think would make everyone’s day more amazing, wouldn't it? You know what they say about dancers, they tell their stories with their bodies, but I feel you can feel a part of their story just by watching their elegant, graceful moves. I could go on for ages about the brilliance of New York City Ballet - especially back in the 1970s!
There’s no denying it – this 16th October 1973 will live long in my tutu-filled memory! That era was definitely one to behold. If you have the chance to check out a ballet, I can’t encourage it enough. Or even a dance performance – you won’t be disappointed! Ballet truly is magical, and let's face it, a pink tutu just adds to the sparkle, right?
And speaking of pink, as always, if you've had a magical ballet day, or perhaps a fun and twirly moment in your own life this week, share it with us using #TutuTuesday – I’d love to hear all about your own twirling adventures. And, of course, you can find my website at www.pink-tutu.com - I’m always sharing new fashion finds, inspiring pink tutu moments, and (of course) uncovering the fascinating history of these iconic dance garments.
Until next Tuesday! 💕💖
Your time-traveling ballerina, Emma
