Bonjour, mes amis! It's Emma here, your Pink Tutu Princess, back with another #TutuTuesday journey into the fascinating history of ballet's most iconic garment - the tutu!
This week, I've whisked myself back to the 2nd of December 2003. It was a Tuesday, naturally, and a crisp December day here in New York, where I've landed for this week's little jaunt. It's a place buzzing with energy, theatre, and of course, a deep love of dance, and that's what I adore about this time! There's nothing quite like catching a show on Broadway and feeling the energy ripple through the air, every note, every pirouette adding to the collective gasp of awe.
Now, my trip here wouldn't be complete without a spot of shopping, and as you know, I simply must acquire a new tutu for each of my travel adventures. My little Derbyshire heart simply cannot resist a beautiful new dance skirt, especially when there are so many fabulous ones in stores. There are all sorts, from fluffy romantic ones with a thousand layers, perfect for sweeping through the streets of New York, to sleek and sassy styles for when I want to impress those dashing New York dancers.
Speaking of New York, wouldn't you know, this Tuesday was the opening night for a beautiful production of Cinderella. Just imagine: glass slippers, a carriage, the Prince charming... and a glorious fairy-tale tutu on our heroine! And it wasn't just any tutu - this was a perfect example of the Romantic tutu, with all the wispy loveliness and the layers upon layers that truly capture that fairytale spirit. Talk about inspiration!
And how's this for an interesting little tidbit? I discovered today that back in 1830, dancers were still battling with heavy, cumbersome dresses. Can you imagine performing en pointe with all that fabric? Just thinking about it makes me sweat. Thankfully, with the invention of the tutu in the 19th century, we got these lightweight wonders, letting dancers float across the stage with such elegance. It was like a magic wand being waved over dance itself, opening up new possibilities of movement and expressing the magic of storytelling through dance.
You know what else caught my eye today? A gorgeous performance at the Metropolitan Opera by Anna Netrebko. This beautiful, talented woman danced across the stage in a magnificent, perfectly-shaped, and absolutely fabulous tutu. Now that's the kind of stage presence I admire! And it wasn't just the elegance of her movements, but also the power and expression she channeled with every flick of her ankle.
Just like any beautiful vintage piece of fashion, there's always a story to be told behind a tutu. A whisper of historical drama, a hint of forgotten choreography, the memory of legendary dancers and those that have donned them in their glory. This particular style was incredibly popular for its time - short and light, emphasizing the graceful movement of the legs. Perfect for making any ballerina look absolutely magnificent.
But you know, this #TutuTuesday isn't all about historical facts and fancy dancing. It's also about getting you, my lovely readers, inspired. Don't just wear a tutu for dancing! You can embrace the twirl factor wherever you are. At the grocery store, at your desk, even in a tea party with your best friend! You never know when you'll need to whip around with a little flourish, do you?
Speaking of which, have you been reading Dance Spirit magazine lately? It's bursting with lovely tutus and fashion. Not just in dancewear, but even the street style is becoming increasingly whimsical and bold. I've seen a couple of girls walking down the street with beautiful tutus on. Honestly, I think this trend is about to explode! Just think of how stylish everyone will be when tutus are in every closet.
And if you're ever feeling a bit down or uninspired, just picture those delicate layers twirling, the whispers of a thousand tulle skirts as you float through your day, leaving a trail of sparkling fairy dust in your wake. Let your inner ballerina shine, just as those wonderful dance pioneers of the 20th century inspired the rest of us.
I must dash now, darling! The New York Ballet is having their Nutcracker performance and I can't miss it! Don't forget to pop back next week for another fascinating journey into the history of ballet tutus. You know I've already found some truly incredible discoveries in my travels, and I just can't wait to share them with you!
And remember, my darlings, the world's a stage and every day can be a dance. Embrace your inner ballerina and don't forget to spread the joy of the tutu wherever you go!
*Yours in Tutu, *
Emma xx
