Hello lovelies, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where tutus reign supreme and Christmas spirit sparkles brighter than a thousand twinkling baubles. It's Emma, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, and today we're taking a trip back in time â a pirouette through the decades, landing right in the heart of Christmas 1920!
Now, you all know how much I adore Christmas ballet. The magic of a beautifully lit stage, the hush of anticipation in the air, and the thrill of watching talented dancers bring the spirit of the season to life... Itâs simply irresistible! And this particular year in history holds a special place in my tutu-wearing heart, with a captivating blend of classic charm and fascinating glimpses into the changing world of ballet.
Just imagine: the world is still recovering from the Great War. People are craving hope, laughter, and the pure, innocent joy that only ballet can provide. This is precisely the kind of energy that fuelled Christmas ballet performances in 1920, turning them into joyous celebrations, a respite from the anxieties of the day.
And speaking of celebrations, did you know that ballet was becoming increasingly popular with the general public back then? The Royal Ballet wasnât even established until 1946 â can you believe it?! Back in 1920, Londoners could enjoy the artistry of the renowned Imperial Russian Ballet. You might even see them performing âThe Nutcracker,â which had its world premiere just three years earlier. Talk about festive timing, darling!
But letâs dive into the actual performances themselves. What would have graced the stage at the London Coliseum or His Majesty's Theatre, for those fortunate enough to attend? You would have likely found a delightful mix of Russian classic ballets, such as "Sleeping Beauty," and âSwan Lake,â and even âGiselleâ might have been on the bill. The grand style, those intricate costumes, and powerful storytelling â imagine being swept away in a flurry of exquisite beauty and raw emotion, right in the middle of a Christmas season!
And who were the glamorous fashionistas attending these shows? Imagine a scene filled with shimmering silks, delicate lace, and beautiful cloche hats. The era of flapper fashion was beginning, with ladies indulging in short, drop-waisted dresses, luxurious boas, and pearls galore.
While we are on the subject of ballet fashion, my lovelies, wouldnât you just love to see the stunning, flamboyant costumes on stage back then? Imagine the elaborate tutus, the magnificent colours, the elaborate beadwork â it was a fashion show before it was a ballet performance! Ballet costuming back then, you know, it wasnât as tight and body-fitting as youâll see in a contemporary show. Youâd see those beautiful, cascading layers of tulle, sometimes even made from hundreds of tiny feathers. Imagine the âGiselleâ dancers in their gorgeously romantic white tutus â a truly heavenly sight, just perfect for a snowy Christmas scene.
It was also an exciting time for ballet shoes. Ballet pointe shoes started to be used for all the ladies in a ballet, which must have felt wonderful! But don't be fooled, these shoes didnât quite have the dainty, delicate look that they have today. They were far more sturdy and were often constructed with leather or canvas for extra support. Imagine those strong, supportive pointe shoes. Perfect for dancing those beautiful long fouettĂ©s.
And letâs not forget about the dazzling male dancers! In a Victorian age where ladies were still confined by certain social expectations, a ballet show would have been a place where their imaginations soared!
Oh, how I yearn to see a real Christmas ballet from this magical era! Maybe itâs time for me to use my skills, dear readers⊠I must visit 1920! Whoâs with me for an unforgettable time-travelling escapade, featuring street performances, beautiful ballet, and, of course, a pink tutu or two?!
As always, my dearest friends, I'm off on a flurry of dancing around town â but you can follow my adventures at www.pink-tutu.com. Until next time, dance with joy and let your inner tutu sparkle!
Keep twirling, Emma xx
