Merry Christmas everyone!
Oh my goodness, it's December the 25th, and I'm here, surrounded by glistening snow and festive lights. What a magical day for a #TutuTuesday! Christmas always reminds me of snow, hot chocolate, and of course, magical performances - from "The Nutcracker" to "Sleeping Beauty". Those swirling, sparkly tutus are simply delightful.
And, I’m off to see a real performance. But before I do, I have to tell you about my fabulous adventures through the 1970s!
I'm hopping out of the time machine, feeling the crisp winter air on my cheeks and pulling my darling pink mohair shawl closer. We're in the middle of a glorious snowy Christmas Day.
I just love Christmas time in New York. The air crackles with anticipation and excitement - and there’s something special about the twinkling lights reflecting on the snowy streets that sets my tutu spinning. I'm sporting my best feather boa and a pair of fabulous pink ballet flats to complement my tutu. Because let's be honest, it's not really Christmas until a pink tutu has made an appearance, right?
Today, we’re stepping into the world of 1970s ballet - and it's a wild ride. You see, the 1970s in ballet wasn't quite as prim and proper as those earlier days when Marie Taglioni pirouetted into our hearts. In fact, it was an era of bold new movements and exciting choreography! Ballet became daring, experimental and, some might say, a little less classical.
Think less fluffy tutus, and more about revolutionary styles. You'd find ballet dancers exploring contemporary movement, contemporary music and experimenting with all kinds of fun costumes and accessories. We're talking bold colours, daring cuts, a touch of theatrical flair - and, naturally, some phenomenal dancing!
Of course, a tutu was still the classic go-to for a graceful ballet dancer but this decade it was often combined with modern influences. Think about dramatic and long sweeping tutus. They might have a splash of color, a fringe or a little bit of texture. You could even catch some short, sporty versions that wouldn't be out of place on a gymnast.
But let's talk about something a bit more personal. As much as I love exploring these amazing trends from the past, what I adore most about ballet history are the personal stories and triumphs.
Remember that amazing ballerina Margot Fonteyn? The Queen of English Ballet, that's her, right? I just love her. She was the epitome of elegance and grace! The stories about her performances are legendary and a source of so much inspiration. I absolutely adore her beautiful and classic style.
Now, if you can believe this, even the ballet stars of this period had a love of travel by train. Margot Fonteyn said she was absolutely fascinated with train travel and would have gone anywhere by train. Just think of all the fantastic travel outfits, the elegant hats and coats. That era must have been divine! And, honestly, when you're traveling from town to town seeing ballet shows in New York City, it would make sense to have a penchant for this grand form of transportation!
Now I want to tell you all about one of the hottest events today, in New York. There's the legendary Bolshoi Ballet performance at the Metropolitan Opera House, which is famous all over the world. You have to see these dancers for yourself, I assure you.
Just imagine those fabulous performers! Those magical dancers - I simply can't wait to see them. They've got incredible talent and there is a magic to their work. That’s what draws me to these legendary productions - that timeless, magic and awe-inspiring ability of ballet to make us believe. It's why ballet, to me, is always special.
I'm off to see it now, in my perfect Christmas day, with this incredible snowy setting and a spectacular Christmas lights show illuminating the entire city. There is just nothing like it! It is a spectacle you just can’t imagine unless you see it in person. The dazzling outfits, the passionate performers and the incredible performance space create such a fabulous festive vibe - all I can do is put my hand to my chest and take a bow. It truly is something out of a storybook! I will tell you more about the performance tomorrow.
But first, a very special message: I just wanted to send my best wishes for a magical and peaceful Christmas Day, wherever you may be, dear friends!
Happy tutu-ful holidays, and I’ll see you soon, my darling dancers!
Emma
xxP.S: I simply must say how much I am in love with this 70's vibe. Those dramatic clothes, those funky styles, the boldness of the dance - I can see why those years are popular again. Don't forget that there are some very trendy retro designs going on. And those vintage 70's clothes would just look stunning in pink. My heart is aflutter. I may need to make a few changes to my wardrobe soon, my lovelies!
