Hey darlings, it's your favourite tutu-loving, pink-obsessed Emma back with another Christmas Ballet History post! Buckle up, because we're taking a time-travel trip to the turn of the century, specifically the year 1901. This was a year full of fabulousness in the world of ballet – just imagine my tutu-filled heart!
Last month, I danced the streets of London to gather the pennies I need for another time-travel adventure (my usual gig is a bit harder with the frost biting at my toes, but nothing a bit of sparkle can't fix!) This time, I landed in Victorian England for the festive season. And boy, oh boy, was I in for a treat!
First off, 1901 saw a surge in ballet's popularity, and for good reason, my dears. We had Serge Diaghilev, the visionary Russian impresario who, in a few short years, would change the face of dance. Can you imagine the impact? It was simply astounding!
And guess what? He actually held the very first season of what was to become The Ballets Russes at the Paris Opera House just last year! Imagine being a ballerina back then, knowing history was being made as you pirouetted and arabesqued! Talk about living the dream!
Of course, I had to catch the show. Imagine my excitement! My vintage tulle tutu, purchased from a dusty little shop in the backstreets of Covent Garden, felt positively sparkling as I took my seat at the Royal Opera House (we don't need the full name, darlings, we know it when we see it).
The ballet was something else. Imagine Giselle, Swan Lake, and even La Bayadere (the grand classics we still adore today) – but with a distinctly Victorian spin! The sets were elaborate, with massive chandeliers, swirling satin curtains, and painted backdrops straight out of a fairy tale. The dancers were like sylphs from another world, their graceful movements drawing gasps and applause from the audience.
But what really caught my eye were the costumes! The ballerinas were positively breathtaking. Flowing, tiered skirts, delicate lace sleeves, and sparkling embellishments, oh, darling, the drama! I simply couldn't stop myself from snapping a couple of covert photos with my hidden camera - such a rebel, I know!
Speaking of fashion, you can't mention 1901 without thinking about the fashionistas. Paris was buzzing, of course, with its ever-changing trends. There were corsets, flowing gowns, hats with elaborate feathers, and high-collared blouses that would put a modern-day fashion show to shame! This was a year of feminine silhouettes, and my goodness, the fashion houses were serving looks!
Now, I can’t help but notice that pink was almost non-existent! Those poor Victorians were stuck in white and beige, what a shame! However, a little something I’ve learned travelling in time – don’t be afraid to make a splash! Maybe this time I’ll wear the first pink tutu!
But let's talk about the true Christmas highlight – the pantomimes! Remember those fabulous British Christmas shows? Now, I couldn’t go back to 1901 without catching The Babes in the Wood, the biggest Christmas tradition in London at the time, with the grandest shows staged in venues like The Alhambra and The Drury Lane. They were known for their dazzling sets, silly humor, and captivating stories - everything we look for in a good panto. Can you imagine, darling? The Babes in the Wood, in the glorious Victorian era, with festive decorations, sparkling costumes, and of course, plenty of audience participation!
Don’t worry my darlings, there is so much more I can share about the 1901 ballet world. This is only the tip of the iceberg, and there’s a world of dance history to delve into! Just stay tuned! In the meantime, remember to add some pink, no matter what you do. Embrace your inner ballerina, my loves!
Keep an eye out for more adventures on the www.pink-tutu.com blog!
Until next time, happy pirouetting, my darlings!
Much love,
Emma
xx
