Post #47: Let's go on a time-travel adventure, darling! Buckle up your pinkest tutu and prepare for a festive journey back to 1938!
Hello, dears! It’s your favourite tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed blogger, Emma, back with another sparkling post in my Christmas Ballet History series. This time we’re taking a delightful trip to 1938.
You know how much I love the magic of a Christmas ballet, the twirling snowflakes, the joyous carols, and the beautiful costumes. It’s no surprise I’m completely enthralled by what the world of ballet was up to back in the thirties. This decade truly brought its own elegant, glamorous style to the Christmas stage!
A World of Glamour
1938 was a time of shimmering dresses and sleek, stylish lines. In ballet, that meant breathtaking tutus with graceful swishes, dazzling sequins and elegant embroidery. And believe me, I just adore that period’s love of embellishment. Can you imagine the glorious sight of the snowflakes glittering under the Christmas lights?
Oh, the Ballet Shows!
Think opulent theaters filled with excited faces. 1938 saw ballet in full bloom across the globe, and we couldn't leave out London, could we? The Royal Ballet Company, known then as the Vic-Wells Ballet, was already establishing itself as a world-class troupe. In fact, 1938 saw their triumphant opening night at the iconic Covent Garden Theatre. A huge moment for ballet, and I can't imagine the buzz it generated amongst the fashionistas of the time!
London's Ballet Bonanza
But let's not forget about the incredible productions on offer across London! 1938 was buzzing with ballet performances, and we must consider the grand old Sadler's Wells Theatre - a venue deeply intertwined with the rise of the Royal Ballet, providing a platform for such groundbreaking productions. Now, those are the names to conjure visions of dazzling costumes, impressive technique, and a contagious passion for dance. It really puts a whole new meaning on 'winter wonderland' in a fabulous, flamboyant way, wouldn't you say?
The World Beyond Britain's Borders
Across the pond, the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo - oh, so very glamorous - toured extensively, captivating audiences in America. And as we step across the globe, the Ballet Russes de Sergei Diaghilev still lived on through their alumni, bringing their magical choreography and vibrant storytelling to ballets throughout the world. Just think, even in the depths of the Great Depression, people found comfort and joy in ballet's vibrant performance. Talk about a festive pick-me-up, don't you think?
A Stroll through 1938 Ballet Fashion
Let's delve into the fashion. Can't help it, darlings, that's what I live for. 1938 saw an enchanting explosion of colour on the stage. The ballet dancers twirled in romantic tutus with delicate pastel hues of pink, soft blues and dreamy violets, giving that extra touch of magical elegance. Imagine the perfect shade of pink that caught the stage lights! My heart skips a beat every time.
It wasn't just about the tutu though, think beautiful leg warmers that complimented the flow of movement, shimmering shoes that glistened as the dancers leaped and danced with a light, joyful elegance. Each ballet seemed like a beautiful masterpiece brought to life by both performance and exquisite design.
Inspired by the Classics and beyond!
1938 saw many beautiful and traditional ballet adaptations. One can only dream of the opulent and vibrant sets for 'Swan Lake,' with its dreamy tutus and majestic ballerinas. It's almost enough to make you yearn for a time machine, just to see it all! Then there's 'Giselle', another perennial favourite with those delicate wispy tutus.
But what really makes 1938 special, you ask? Why, the emergence of ballet on film, my dears! "The Great Waltz", a ballet with a musical heart, was released that year. Ballet and cinema! Now, there’s an idea!
Embracing the Festive Spirit of Christmas
Let's not forget, darlings, Christmas was a special time. The scent of pine, the warm glow of lights, and families gathered in joyful anticipation of the big day. For many, seeing a Christmas ballet became an integral part of this magical holiday experience. So, I can only imagine how a glittering ballet performance - with a dash of that special 1938 festive charm - would have captured the heart of any onlooker.
The Power of Tutu:
And now, my little lovelies, let’s wrap up this delightful journey through the Christmas Ballet history of 1938. We've witnessed an age of dazzling spectacle and exquisite performances. A time when ballet and its captivating art reached audiences far and wide.
Remember, darling, whether it’s the intricate, swishy tutus or the grace and elegance of the ballet dancers themselves, the enchantment of a Christmas ballet knows no boundaries! This enchanting artform continues to sparkle like the star atop a Christmas tree! And so, my dears, I leave you with a question… Are you ready to find your perfect pink tutu to step into the world of ballet? I have the best tips for your own dazzling ensemble on my blog.
Keep those tutus twirling and your hearts warm,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
