Hello my lovely tutu-ettes!
It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu wearing ballerina! The festive season is officially upon us, and you know what that means? Time to dig out those Christmas sweaters, gather with loved ones, and... indulge in the magic of Christmas ballet!
Today's post, our forty-fifth delve into the history of this delightful tradition, takes us all the way back to 1936! Get ready for a dazzling trip back in time where we explore the shimmering world of Christmas ballet as it was eighty-seven years ago.
Let’s take a peek behind the curtain...
1936 saw the world still grappling with the aftermath of the Great War, and the air was thick with anticipation for a more prosperous future. While there might not have been the same dazzling array of shows we enjoy today, the spirit of Christmas ballet was definitely alive and kicking.
The iconic Nutcracker, the ballet that makes our hearts sing, had been around since 1892, making it a staple on the holiday stage in 1936! Can you imagine watching Tchaikovsky's beautiful music come alive on stage? I’d be glued to the front row, tutu swirling, with sheer delight!
Now, let’s talk ballet fashion...
While the elegance and artistry of ballet fashion remains timeless, 1936 was a period of fascinating style! You could picture the graceful dancers adorned in stunning tutus, full of elaborate designs, romantic ruffles and shimmering fabrics. Just imagine, the soft pink of my favourite tutu, maybe even a touch of gold glitter… a true festive dream!
Now, don't you think pink is simply the perfect shade for a Christmas ballet? Pink evokes such warmth, happiness and celebration, all perfect Christmas emotions. We must aim for every ballerino to be sporting a touch of pink, whether it's in their tights, their shoes, or of course, in a beautifully layered tutu! Let's spread the pink tutu love!
Beyond The Nutcracker, other popular Christmas ballets graced the stage in 1936, such as the ever-charming Sleeping Beauty. I picture them with beautifully intricate sets and dazzling costumes – maybe even a snowflake motif woven in with delicate rhinestones!
It wasn't just in the big theaters, though! There were Christmas ballets being performed in schools, community halls, and even private homes! You see, the magic of ballet wasn't confined to fancy halls back then – it was shared across all communities!
Think of the joy that the sight of these dazzling dances brought to everyone watching, be it young and old! This truly reminds me why I'm so passionate about my pink tutus - it’s the opportunity to bring a touch of magic into everyone’s life, whatever their age or circumstance.
What was happening on the ballet scene in 1936, beyond Christmas ballets?
Well, if you were a budding ballerina in Derbyshire like me, you might have been attending a class with Dame Margot Fonteyn who began teaching there in 1934! Or perhaps, if you were feeling extra daring, you could have travelled to London to catch one of her early performances - wow! It would be an unforgettable experience for sure, even for me! You know what? I just know that my pink tutu would have perfectly matched that chic art deco glamour of the 30s!
My street performances:
Speaking of traveling to London, you see, the life of a ballet-obsessed girl in Derbyshire involves more than just admiring the theatre. Sometimes you need to go out, twirl on the cobblestone streets, share a little sparkle with the world, and raise funds for my time travel adventures! It’s like a secret, pink tutu-wearing super hero power - the magic of street ballet!
I even bet I could find a little spot in Covent Garden, just to pop in a few spins while catching a peek at a vintage, beautiful store window display – now that is my ideal Christmas combination. You see, a passionate ballerina, especially one like me, is always looking for a dose of ballet beauty, wherever they are, even on the busy streets of London.
Pink Tutu Wishlist 1936:
This Christmas, it wouldn’t just be the Nutcracker gracing the stages of the world. *There would also be the stunning performances of the Paris Opera Ballet in *Le Lac des Cygnes. ** What I would give to see those stunning white tutus and glittering stage decorations… A ballet fan like me wouldn't dare miss that!
The highlight of my 1936 Christmas ballet wishlist would, however, have to be the Ballets Russes, bringing the most incredible shows to London. You wouldn't just get a performance, but a real spectacle of colours, movement and music. Talk about festive excitement! My pink tutu would be swirling with excitement at a chance to be at one of those legendary shows!
Christmas Ballet is truly special…
It's a time for gathering, a time for joy, and of course, a time for magic. Christmas ballets bring families and friends together, and for one moment, take us to a place of pure enchantment. Who needs real snow when you have swirling snow flakes and sugar plum fairies dancing on the stage, right? And as for my 1936 journey through time? I already have the perfect pink tutu ready for a dazzling, pink-tutu-tastic trip to the theatre! Just think, the excitement, the warmth, the wonder… that's what makes Christmas ballet magic!
So my dears, remember… a dash of pink tutu magic in your life can really brighten any Christmas. Let's keep the festive spirit alive!
Until next time, twirl and sparkle!
Emma.
www.pink-tutu.com
