Hey lovelies! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu-wearing time traveller, ready to take you on another whirlwind adventure through ballet history! It's Tuesday, which means it's time for your weekly dose of #TutuTuesday! This week, we're waltzing back to the magical year of 1985, a time when shoulder pads were king, leg warmers were queen, and tutus were definitely having a moment. 💅💖
Before we step back in time, I just have to tell you about my trip to New York last week! The city never sleeps, darlings, and neither did I. It was an absolute whirlwind of Broadway shows, couture shopping, and, of course, ballet. Seeing the dancers at the New York City Ballet in their pristine white tutus was absolutely breathtaking - so much grace and elegance. They definitely reminded me of the inspiration for this week's history post!
Back to 1985! 🕰️
Can you imagine, darlings, that it was 38 years ago that ballet audiences were swept off their feet by the dazzling dance drama, The Little Mermaid! I know, it's shocking that this delightful adaptation of the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale is that old already! 🤩
This enchanting ballet, a collaboration between Denmark's Royal Theatre Ballet and the Netherlands Dance Theatre, premiered in Copenhagen, Denmark on 2nd July, 1985, which just happens to be the date we're celebrating today! Can you imagine being there for the opening night?!
Imagine the excitement, the anticipation, the awe! A magical spectacle, The Little Mermaid ballet transported audiences into the depths of the sea, with swirling movements that reflected the ebb and flow of the tides, and the dazzling costumes, designed by none other than the iconic John Macfarlane. Just like a shimmering sea creature herself, Macfarlane's creations, featuring vibrant blue silks and ethereal tulle, reflected the beauty and wonder of the ocean. 🌊
While I couldn't make it back in time to watch this legendary production myself, my research revealed the excitement of this production! Critics gushed over the performance and the artistry, and the audiences were captivated. Some even reported a sensation of "being swept away on a magical current", which is definitely how I felt when watching Black Swan last month! 🦢
But enough about that! The point is, 1985 was a very important year for the ballet world, particularly for the popularity of the classic ballet form. The Little Mermaid is not the only famous ballet production born that year! It's quite amazing that just four months before The Little Mermaid, another spectacular ballet debuted! Can you guess what it is? It's a masterpiece! You've probably heard of it! I'll give you a hint: It's another classic story from Denmark that features a mermaid. And just like a certain Little Mermaid, this story involves a special, mystical relationship between a man and a beautiful mermaid. And not only that, it features amazing music from Denmark’s most famous composer - Tchaikovsky! Any guesses? 🤔
That’s right! It's none other than The Little Mermaid by Peter Schaufuss! This production is a total ballet masterpiece. Featuring the amazing and innovative artistic choreography by its creator, Peter Schaufuss, The Little Mermaid tells a captivating story through the dance, a combination of classical ballet and a powerful, contemporary style!
I simply adore Peter Schaufuss! If you get a chance, do check out his fascinating dance story. He’s another fantastic reason why 1985 was an absolutely wonderful time for tutus! It truly felt as though the world was dancing in time to the beat of beautiful ballet.
Now, speaking of tutus! If you're reading this in a gorgeous, frothy tutu, then congratulations! But if not, why not get out a tutu and give this vintage ballet style a whirl? Trust me, there is a pink tutu out there for you! 💖✨
My dear fellow fashionistas, let me know what your favourite ballet productions were in 1985. And as always, I love seeing your amazing tutu pictures! Make sure to use #TutuTuesday to tag me on social media. Let’s get dancing, my lovelies!
Until next time! ✨💕
