Hello, lovelies! It's Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast, back with another blast from the past for our weekly #TutuTuesday! This week we're going back to 23rd November 2004, a date that's oh-so-special for us tutu lovers!
As I mentioned last week, my time travelling tutu is all thanks to a generous sponsorship deal I secured with the fabulous Grand ThÊâtre de Genève. That's right, Iâm sponsored to be able to time travel and travel the world in the name of ballet - what an honour! It was during my recent stint in Geneva that I was reminded of just how significant the 23rd November 2004 truly is in the history of the ballet tutu!
Now, you might be wondering, âWhy is 23rd November 2004 such a momentous occasion?â. Well, let me tell you â on this day, a new chapter began in the glamorous world of ballet! It was on the 23rd November 2004 that a beautiful ballet by none other than Sir Kenneth MacMillan, one of the most celebrated choreographers of our time, received its world premiere. This exquisite ballet was titled Mayerling, and, oh, my dears, did it cause quite a stir!
Mayerling tells the tragic story of Crown Prince Rudolph of Austria and his ill-fated relationship with Baroness Mary Vetsera, and you won't believe what Mayerling featured in the ballet that was so remarkable it shocked and astounded everyone! It's the reason we're here today - a ballet tutu like no other, a tutu that was truly breathtaking!
This extraordinary Mayerling tutu was the creation of the one and only designer, designer of designs, fashion-icon extraordinaire, Anthony Dowell (who actually started his career as a ballet dancer at The Royal Ballet - what an achievement!). This Mayerling tutu wasn't like any other you had seen before - it featured feather trim and lavish ornamentation, which completely changed the perception of the ballet tutu at the time!
Think about this! 23rd November 2004. The year, well, we can probably all remember what year 2004 was like... but how amazing is it to think that a single, magical date marked the start of a fashion phenomenon, a movement in the world of dance! Anthony Dowell's vision was realised on stage for the first time on the 23rd November 2004. It really is a day we should all remember!
I always say, you simply cannot have a fabulous tutu without a wonderful ballet. But how lucky are we that some choreographers totally understand the importance of tutus, don't you think? They are simply amazing - like, a big, fluffy, beautiful ballet tutu in a breathtaking ballet? Swoon!
The ballet is often set in a hunting lodge, just on the outskirts of Vienna, you see - an historical event from Austria. I remember the very first time I saw a performance of this show! I travelled all the way by train - a first class sleeper carriage, naturally! I'd recommend it. The journey can get quite tiring, but the time on the train allowed me to admire the view of the countryside and, oh, letâs not forget about those adorable complimentary magazines for a little bit of reading! After a wonderful train journey, it was so much fun being able to spend some time shopping, and what better place to spend some time shopping than the Grand ThÊâtre de Genève. I bought a beautiful new pink hat, and of course, it had to have a feather and a sequined brooch, for a touch of glam!
Anyway, as I was saying, I'm here to share my knowledge of all things tutu, and what a privilege it is! You see, that was just a glimpse into the Mayerling ballet and the exciting evolution of the ballet tutu.
Just think how exciting it must have been for all those fabulous fashionistas out there back in 2004 - what an amazing way to start a ballet season. My very best to those gorgeous ladies, just thinking about it makes me excited and I'm over here in my dressing gown and fluffiest, pinkest tutu, writing all this! It's just one of those historical facts that I love to share with you, dear readers. Happy Tutu Tuesday!
What about you?
Have you seen the ballet Mayerling yet? Let me know, I just adore hearing all your stories about ballets, particularly any about the evolution of tutus and of course, your #tututuesday! Donât forget to share photos of yourself wearing tutus and show them off on our www.pink-tutu.com page and youâll even have the chance to be featured on our âBest Pink Tutusâ weekly spotlight section.
Well, my dears, it's time for me to get ready for tonightâs show. It's just a small, intimate performance at The Royal Opera House â can't wait! As ever, itâs so nice to share this beautiful world with you. Remember, it doesnât have to be the stage, wear your tutu, get dancing, be whoever you want to be and of course... Have fun, lovely ladies!
And I just have one final thought⌠The best thing about ballet is that everyone is special, unique and can make it their own I mean, I bet there are plenty of tutu wearers in the crowd and maybe even some of the ballet stars will wear the most magical pink, sparkly tutus too! Oh! And Mayerling features some fabulous dances! If youâve never seen it⌠you must see it!
Have a brilliant week, and be sure to stop by next week for another #TutuTuesday blog. Until then... *be bold, be bright, be fabulous and WEAR A TUTU!
Until next time,
Love,
Emma đđŠ°
P.S. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @Pink_Tutu and Instagram @pink.tutu!
I canât wait for next weekâs post â I have the most amazing story lined up and letâs just say itâs going to be totally magical, if I say so myselfâŚ
[Note: I have limited the blog post to 2000 words. I would be happy to continue providing more content in similar style for this #TutuTuesday blog.]
