Hello fellow tutu enthusiasts!
Itâs Emma here, your pink-tutu-loving, Christmas-ballet-obsessed, time-travelling blogger! This is my fifth post in my "Christmas Ballet History" series, and this time weâre taking a twirl back to 1896. Buckle up your ballet slippers, darlings, because we're going to be diving into a year brimming with glitz, glamour, and a sprinkle of sugarplum magic!
Where Was I in 1896?
Well, last time, I was off prancing about in 17th-century France! This time, I'm back on home soil, taking in the sights and sounds of a Victorian Christmas. Let me tell you, there's nothing like the crisp winter air and the twinkling lights of a bygone era! Of course, no trip back in time is complete without my pink tutu. I went for a classic, billowing tulle number with a festive ribbon sash and a tiny Christmas bell adorning my bun. Absolutely divine!
Christmas Ballet Performances: The Highlights of 1896
Now, I know what you're thinking: "Emma, surely the Christmas ballet scene wasn't as grand in 1896 as it is today!" Think again, my darling! This era saw a burst of artistic creativity, particularly in the realm of ballet. There were two major productions that stole the show (and the hearts) that year:
- "The Nutcracker": My personal favourite! This was no ordinary nutcracker though. We're talking the world premiere of Tchaikovskyâs masterpiece at the Imperial Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. Imagine, being in that theatre when those unforgettable melodies filled the air for the first time! Now, you might say "Well Emma, it wasnât even a Christmas performance." But think about it, darlings! The "Nutcracker" embodies the magic and wonder of Christmas in every delightful scene. And the sheer beauty of it? Simply divine!
- "La Sylphide": Another beautiful work! A French Romantic ballet first performed in Paris at the Opéra de Paris in 1832, this was another highlight of the 1896 season. La Sylphide truly transports you to a world of fairies and delicate dances - the perfect respite from the brisk December weather!
But it wasn't just about the main events. Many regional theatres across Europe would be performing shorter ballet works for Christmas - think "The Sleeping Beauty", "Swan Lake" or "Coppélia". Imagine, a cozy theatre, a packed audience, a beautiful Christmas tree twinkling, and those glorious melodies filling the air! Truly enchanting!
Fashionably Festive!
And letâs not forget the fabulous ballet fashion of 1896! We were talking big tulle, oh so big tulle. The tutu's form had evolved into the classic ballerina shape with a very tight bodice. There were so many ruffles and layers that it simply burst with romance. Colors? Think shades of pastel pink, buttercup yellow and the rich emerald green of a Christmas tree. They were like whimsical, wearable works of art, perfect for embodying the ethereal charm of these iconic ballets.
Now, if you're as obsessed with this era's ballet fashion as I am, don't miss a trip to Harrods or Liberty in London. You'll find all the latest designs for theatre fashion, including beautifully delicate lace gloves, sparkling diamantĂ© jewelry and velvet opera cloaks in divine shades of ruby and emerald. Of course, a true Victorian lady would be sporting her most elegant hat â think feather boas, bows and intricate trimmings in tones to match her gown!
Street Performances and Street Style
Now, after all those gorgeous performances and high-end fashion, I need to ground myself! Thankfully, in 1896, ballet was also making its way to the streets! Think Street performers â dancers on bustling pavements performing snippets from popular ballets, like âLa Sylphideâ. This added a touch of sparkle and artistry to the day-to-day lives of everyone. Of course, the best way to celebrate Christmas is with street performers â those twinkling lights, the cold, fresh air, the anticipation and joy, and then there you have it, dancing on the street â simply sublime.
As for the street fashion in 1896? A bit more on the practical side than those theatre fashions. Think practical tweed skirts for ladies, tweed caps for the chaps and a lot of buttons and boots! It wasn't just about the glitz, it was about layering and keeping warm as the evenings got darker. Of course, a bit of festive flair, a touch of velvet or a ribbon, and youâve got yourself a fantastic Christmas outfit!
How You Can Add a Dash of Christmas Ballet to Your Life:
- Get Twirling! If youâre not a professional, try out a dance class in the festive spirit! So much fun! There's a festive joy in twirling around like a Sugar Plum fairy!
- Play that Soundtrack! Blast the music from "The Nutcracker", "La Sylphide" or "Swan Lake".
- Recreate the Victorian Charm! Put on your most festive outfit, decorate your home with festive twinkling lights, and have a fun ballet party!
I've left my heart back in 1896 with the music of the Nutcracker, the ethereal beauty of "La Sylphide" and the twinkling charm of those beautiful costumes. Remember, even if youâre not a time traveler like me, a bit of festive imagination can transport you to a Christmas world of magic and artistry!
Until next time, darlings, keep twirling, stay stylish, and never lose that festive spirit.
Always in pink,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. If you love what you've read here, why not join our fantastic Pink Tutu community online and share your passion for ballet with the rest of us? Let's spread the pink tutu love together! We have a fantastic online forum where you can share photos of your own tutu creations and all things Christmas ballet! See you there!
Donât forget to look out for my next Christmas ballet history blog coming soon!
