Hey darlings! Emma here, back with another dose of Christmas ballet history. Grab your hot chocolate and settle in because we're taking a time-traveling trip back to 1897. Can you imagine a Christmas without internet shopping? I know, it makes my little ballet heart skip a beat just thinking about it!
So, the year is 1897. The Queen, bless her, is still on the throne, the world is on the cusp of a new century, and – oh joy – Christmas is in the air! You might not think of Christmas ballets straight away when you hear the year 1897. But believe me, ballet was already experiencing a glorious bloom.
Let's first talk about fashion, because frankly, darling, it was utterly delightful! Think shimmering satins, lace that could make a spider envious, and oh, those ruffles! The ballet dancers were basically living, breathing fashion editorials, showcasing the finest the era had to offer. No boring black tutus here, dear! This was the age of vibrant colours. You might have seen a dancer adorned in a dazzling sapphire silk dress or a frothy pink tulle confection – think "Gone with the Wind" meets "Cinderella" but with a bit of Victorian elegance sprinkled on top.
Speaking of "Cinderella", this classic fairy tale was getting its own magical Christmas makeover in London. This ballet production at the Empire Theatre was called “Cinder-Ellen Up Too Late. “ Imagine the fun! With dancing chimney sweeps, a dashing Prince Charming, and, of course, our beloved Cinderella in her magical gown. You can practically feel the festive atmosphere, don't you?
But "Cinderella" wasn't the only festive offering. Remember "The Nutcracker"? It was being performed all over Europe, a heartwarming reminder that the story of the little Clara and her Nutcracker was already a much-loved classic by this time. This was a true treat for families in 1897 – who wouldn't be charmed by the adorable dancing snowflakes, the elegant Sugarplum Fairy, and, of course, the magic of Christmas spirit?
Talking of the "Nutcracker" , in 1897, Tchaikovsky's original score for this magical ballet was just beginning to get appreciated! Now, the "Nutcracker" is an iconic masterpiece that people all around the world adore. It's so beautiful and charming that it brings back Christmas memories even in the hottest summer months.
Now, I know what you're thinking – where were those iconic pink tutus I’ve been trying to bring into fashion, dear readers? You’re not entirely wrong. The 1890s were a time for delicate silk and cotton designs. They embraced beautiful and detailed embroidery which was a masterpiece in its own right, darling! The focus was on flowing fabric and graceful lines, but still – think of it – with the right embellishment and a splash of the perfect shade of pink, those gorgeous Victorian dresses could be just as captivating as a perfectly-constructed tulle tutu .
My time travels have helped me realise, we all have ballet in our souls, even in the Victorian era! There's just something utterly captivating about those graceful movements, the artistry, and that magic that lingers long after the final curtain falls. So, don't forget to spread a bit of Christmas magic in your own little world this holiday season, my darlings.
Until next time, don't be afraid to express your inner ballerina in pink, darling, because the only way to wear a **tutu is with confidence and a whole lotta Christmas cheer!
Yours truly, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
