Hello, my darling tutu enthusiasts! It’s your favourite pink-clad time traveller, Emma, back for another whirl through the wonderful world of ballet and its glorious, twirly companion - the tutu! 💖
Today’s #TutuTuesday takes us back to November 2nd, 1999. Now, before you all start questioning my time travel abilities, remember - I can only go back as far as my research allows! I'm still trying to unlock the secrets of faster-than-light travel so I can zoom all the way back to the origins of the tutu (don't worry, I'll share that journey with you soon!).
Anyway, back to November 2nd, 1999. It was a Tuesday (a day perfect for a ballet blog post, obviously!) and the world was buzzing with anticipation for the turn of the millennium. We were all gearing up for the new year, Y2K fears notwithstanding!
But what were our ballerinas up to? Well, it seems the world of ballet was already embracing a new age of experimentation. It was a time for reimagining classic stories, pushing the boundaries of performance and exploring fresh, exciting choreography.
Think about it – this was the year the Royal Ballet's Matthew Bourne stunned everyone with his groundbreaking and hauntingly beautiful "Swan Lake". The company's version wasn't a mere reimagining – it flipped the script entirely, casting a male dancer as the enigmatic Swan! Talk about a tutu game-changer! This daring piece definitely made ripples in the tutu world, leaving many pondering whether this modern reinterpretation had stolen the classic swan-dress spotlight. I can tell you now, after being at a few of these shows – it absolutely had, with good reason!
Speaking of groundbreaking performances, this was also the year that choreographer and tutu-maestro Wayne McGregor, who many think is the Michelangelo of the dance world, premiered “Chroma” for the Royal Ballet. It was a stunning visual feast with its vibrant costumes, minimalist backdrop, and innovative use of the tutu in unexpected ways. It's one of those performances where I absolutely need to go back in time and grab myself front row seats – the only issue is how am I going to snag a seat alongside Dame Darcey Bussell when she takes centre stage? 🤔
As I do my usual travel research before jumping on my next train journey through time, I like to indulge in my favourite pastime: tutu-shopping! While 1999 wasn't quite the vintage paradise that it is today, I still managed to unearth some real gems at Dancewear Centre in Covent Garden.
Believe me, tutus back then were something else! We're talking big, voluminous, fairytale princess-worthy tutus, all layers and frothy goodness. I found myself captivated by the vibrant colours - think candy-floss pinks, sky-high blues, and sunshine yellows! Just imagine my joy as I slipped on a pale blue, full-length tutu, its soft fabric shimmering in the Covent Garden daylight. It was a moment of pure ballet bliss!
I found that tutu on my favourite day of the week - Saturday. That's because Covent Garden really comes alive on Saturdays! Not only do the Covent Garden shops overflow with stylish new arrivals (from tutus to handbags!), it also fills up with bustling crowds all eager to explore the shops, enjoy street performers, and perhaps even witness a spectacular show. And this is just what happened to me on Saturday, November 6th, 1999. I found myself face-to-face with a troupe of tutu-wearing street performers. They were showcasing their dazzling skills with captivating twirls and breathtaking jumps right in the heart of the bustling Covent Garden market. They were a real testament to the allure of the tutu and its power to bring magic and joy to every corner of the city. It's moments like these when I feel absolutely sure everyone should wear a pink tutu! 💖
Speaking of street performances, it seems the street arts scene was also blooming in 1999, creating a colourful tapestry of talent and creativity that perfectly complimented the tutu's artistry and grace. It was a magical blend of colours, movements, and music!
Back then, I remember how everyone would flock to the South Bank, that stretch of the River Thames that buzzes with activity from the National Theatre to the Tate Modern, as it always has. It's a haven for both artists and art-lovers and has always been a place to truly embrace the beauty and wonder of the art world. And let me tell you, tutus were well-represented back in 1999!
It was during one of my excursions to South Bank that I found myself at the heart of the action on Saturday, November 20th. This was no ordinary Saturday! It was a celebration of creativity and, of course, I just had to make my way through the hordes of eager visitors. But something incredible happened. The air buzzed with excitement as the South Bank's Street Theatre Festival unfolded. Imagine, a huge celebration of artistic expression! I was surrounded by musicians, artists, dancers – all celebrating the creative power of human spirit. Amidst the street entertainers' acts, a wave of awe passed through the crowds, leaving us spellbound! The tutu's elegance perfectly contrasted with the hustle and bustle of London's exciting street performance scene, creating a visual treat that left me in awe of its boundless ability to charm!
Oh, the wonder of ballet and its incredible tutus! They really are the epitome of elegance and artistry! I've had so much fun travelling back in time and getting caught up in the 1999 buzz, from Covent Garden's ballet shops and street performers to the electrifying South Bank. It truly is an amazing reminder of the timeless elegance of ballet and its wonderful ability to transport us into magical worlds.
So, don't forget to join me again next Tuesday for another #TutuTuesday journey! Until then, don't be afraid to twirl and express your inner ballerina, you never know, it might lead you to some incredible places, both in time and in your own heart! ✨
Love,
Emma x
