Hello darlings! Itās Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing ballet aficionado, and Iām so thrilled to welcome you to another installment of my Christmas ballet history blog! Today, weāre jetting back to the year 1908, a time when the Edwardian era was in full swing and the world of ballet was buzzing with excitement. My, how time flies!
Oh, how I adore travelling back through time and witnessing the wonder of Christmas ballets from eras past! Itās like stepping into a magical storybook, filled with twirling fairies, brave heroes, and enough glitter to blind you! Now, imagine this ā Christmas Eve 1908. The snow is falling outside, a beautiful blanket of white, and the fire is crackling in the fireplace. The air is thick with the scent of cinnamon and pine, and a gentle piano melody drifts through the airā¦ Wouldnāt you just love to step into that moment?
And it wasnāt just the air that was magical in 1908; ballet fashion was as glamorous and extravagant as the stage productions! Imagine cascading velvet bodices with layers upon layers of tulle. Or, imagine dazzling jewel tones woven into lavish costumes that shimmered under the gaslight!
The World of Ballet in 1908
1908 was a golden year for the ballet world! Diaghilevās Ballets Russes had arrived on the scene just two years earlier, causing a huge stir with their daring productions and vibrant choreography. They introduced the West to the captivating artistry of Russian ballet, a real turning point in the history of ballet, which resonated with the fashionable crowd of London. Oh, I just adore the drama of it all, and to imagine witnessing that historical moment, a young Russian ballet dancer performing in a beautifully decorated London theatreā¦. just wow!
Speaking of London theatres, imagine those gorgeous venues! The Royal Opera House, Drury Lane, and the Coliseum ā they were abuzz with activity!
In 1908, there was no shortage of spectacular ballet productions! But it was āGiselleā that had captured the public imagination and hearts. A beautifully dramatic ballet! And you know what, the beautiful choreography and the intricate costumes are almost as mesmerizing as the dancers themselves.
But my true Christmas ballet obsession isā¦ āThe Nutcrackerā!
Now, this festive masterpiece was not the sensation that āGiselleā was back in 1908, it was still very new. Can you imagine, I was unable to witness the captivating journey of Clara through the magical Land of Sweets? Well, just wait, one day my time travelling skills will allow me to see this wonder! My time travelling funds come from street ballet performances, I adore performing for my audience in Derby! It just feels like being in the limelight! My dancing makes people smile and, most importantly, brings a sense of magic to the street. Oh, how I wish people would follow my example, you too could travel through time!
Fashionable Flair:
1908 ballet fashion was, if I'm honest, an absolute masterpiece! Imagine, elegant gowns with exquisite bodices, all layered with soft, ethereal tulle and delicate embellishments. I adore a good bodice!
Where to Find Ballet Inspiration Today
Now, in 2023, the world of ballet is thriving with innovative creations, amazing choreography and new-generation dancers that keep pushing the boundaries of ballet!
I highly recommend that you head down to your local ballet company and get swept away by the magic! But donāt forget, thereās so much inspiration for your inner ballerina to be found online, too.
Oh, and did I mention how much I love Pinterest! My favorite page? Ballet costume inspo - it is just the most divine, swirling combination of colors, tulle, sparkle and everything that truly inspires a ballet-loving soul!
Ending Note:
So, darlings, thatās all for today's journey back in time to 1908! Remember, the ballet world is overflowing with a treasure trove of magical stories, both past and present. Itās just waiting for you to discover it!
Until next time, remember to keep twirling, dream big, and let your inner ballerina shine! Oh, and donāt forget to spread the word of the pink tutuā¦ we all need more pink tutus in our lives!
Have a lovely day!
Emma xoxo
