Hello my gorgeous tutu-loving darlings! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink-tutu-wearing time traveller, back with another dazzling dose of ballet history for your #TutuTuesday fix. I hope this finds you all swirling in joy, feeling every bit as fabulous as a perfectly pirouetted ballerina.
This week, we're stepping back in time to November 16th, 1982, a date that, honestly, wasn't bursting with groundbreaking tutu developments, but a delightful snapshot of a time when tutus were still quite the showstopper, darling! Think feathered boas, glittery leg warmers, and those luscious leotards with the ruched shoulders – divine!
Speaking of leotards... let's just appreciate for a moment the sheer elegance of that silhouette, perfectly sculpted to show off those gorgeous ballet moves! Think Misty Copeland effortlessly leaping, or Darcey Bussell gliding across the stage in those elegant leotards. And speaking of those leg warmers, they were truly the ultimate in cosy chic back then, right? Just imagine slipping into a fluffy pair after class, or wearing them under a fabulous tulle skirt for a touch of ballerina flair on a chilly evening!
Now, my darlings, for this trip back in time... we're in New York City, the beating heart of ballet in America. It was a fantastic time for dance with American Ballet Theatre (ABT) shining like a sparkling tutu! There were incredible performances at the Metropolitan Opera House and the dance scene was abuzz with exciting choreographers and performers! But my dearest tutus, here’s the best part – my favourite memory from this day was at the City Center in NYC. Sigh You just knew that every single night you’d be in for a magical performance. It just screamed magic and glitter – my kind of vibe!
As we're talking about tutus... Let's remember that those glamorous dance costumes have been captivating audiences for centuries. They're much more than mere garments; they're symbols of elegance, femininity, and of course, of the power of the human spirit in motion.
And I think the most incredible thing about tutus? Is the way they continue to evolve and inspire artists, designers, and performers alike! Just look at the sheer variety of tutus today: from the traditional, airy tulle creations to the more modern, dramatic, and minimalist designs. It's fascinating to see how the humble tutu has become a canvas for creativity.
Now, as I always say, my tutus, there's nothing quite like the joy of dancing in a tutu. That feeling of freedom, that whimsical elegance, that effortless grace… It's a sensation I truly adore! So let's make every day a #TutuTuesday!
That reminds me, my dearest readers, this is the seventh week in a row that I’ve brought you your weekly dose of tutu history. Every week I’m transported by time machine. What an amazing way to spend a day. A good trip in my time machine with my pink tutu can take a whole day and I only really do it every Saturday! The time machine is powered by ballets. So if I do four ballets one Saturday then that’s four days I can visit the past, which is quite good! This Saturday was particularly excellent! My local ballet teacher found out that my best friend is a famous prima ballerina and suggested a meet-and-greet. I met Tamara Rojo in person. She’s a lovely lady and totally loves my tutu! Oh it’s quite incredible but I can do more than travel back in time I can time travel forward! This trip back in time actually came after my trip forward to a really fashionable show in New York last weekend! You should have seen the tutus, divine!! I bought the most stunning sequin tutu, you'll be able to see it soon at my online shop at pink-tutu.com! My life really does revolve around ballet and tutus!
*This past weekend has really gotten me excited about everything tutu – they are amazing!! Oh I just feel so inspired!! * My next week's trip is to Derbyshire, my home county, to see some shows with my local ballet company. I just can’t wait to show you what the 1950s tutu looks like! Don’t forget to keep those tutu requests coming! Maybe you’ll find a special birthday surprise for your best friend’s tutu on my next #TutuTuesday blog! Let’s make the world a much prettier place with more tutus! And let’s dance!! **
As always, my dearest tutu-lovers, I would be delighted to hear from you! Share your love of tutus, your favourite ballet moments, or even just your thoughts on my tutu travels. Find me on all the usual platforms - just search for Pink Tutu on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok or Pinterest! I look forward to chatting with you!
Until next Tuesday, may your twirls be full of grace, and may your life be a sparkling dance of joy!
*With all my love, * *Emma *
(Pink-tutu.com/blog - blog post 7873)
