Christmas Ballet in 1950

Hello, darlings! It's your favourite tutu-clad ballerina blogger, Emma, back with another dive into the enchanting world of Christmas ballet history! Today, we're time-travelling to a wonderfully whimsical era – 1950! Buckle up your ballet shoes and grab a hot chocolate, because this trip down memory lane is going to be positively divine! 💖

This is post number 59 for my Christmas ballet history blog, www.pink-tutu.com. This year I funded my time travel via some extra-fabulous street ballet performances – did I tell you I recently discovered the most beautiful pair of lavender and silver glitter pointe shoes? Simply irresistible! I must admit, street performance really gives a new meaning to "opening night"! 😉

Anyway, let's talk 1950! Imagine the excitement of attending a Christmas ballet performance back then. You wouldn't find a glitzy, glamorous West End theatre with LED lights and a whole rainbow of tulle on the stage. Back in 1950, ballet had a certain charm - a classic, elegant simplicity. Think opulent crimson curtains, twinkling fairy lights, and perhaps a charming stage set inspired by Tchaikovsky's magical 'The Nutcracker'! 💖

Some of the ballet stars who were absolutely dazzling the stages in 1950 were the legendary Margot Fonteyn, a goddess in pink who truly revolutionized ballet in Britain, and Moira Shearer, a whimsical ballerina with an ethereal quality who was as charming as a Christmas carol. Imagine the excitement in the air knowing these legendary dancers graced the stage! 💖

Ballet fashion in 1950, my darlings, was a dream come true! Imagine the grace of those delicate tutus – all the way from soft, pale pinks to vibrant crimson, they swished and danced with an air of elegance. Ballet shoes were dainty and charming, usually adorned with delicate ribbons, just perfect for those light and graceful leaps! Don't even get me started on the hairstyles, oh my! Chignons, braids and, of course, perfectly coiffed victory rolls, all perfectly designed to complement those magical costumes and the overall look of ballerinas – simply stunning!

I'm dreaming of a Christmas in 1950! What would be the perfect attire for a grand ballet performance? I'd be wearing a twirling, ethereal powder-pink tutu adorned with tiny snowflakes, topped with a dazzling pearl tiara and a festive velvet shawl in rich burgundy! Imagine the sparkling lights and the delicious air of Christmas anticipation – truly a magical experience!

The theatrical world in 1950 was absolutely bursting with talent! If you were in the mood for ballet, "The Sleeping Beauty" and "Swan Lake" were making waves! And of course, no Christmas season was complete without a heartwarming performance of "The Nutcracker"! And, you know, while I'm all for new, exciting choreography, there's something so captivating about those classic ballets – truly timeless masterpieces! 💖

But that wasn't all! The world of opera was absolutely alive and kicking with famous opera singers such as the amazing Kathleen Ferrier.

Of course, back then there was not the instant access to information about what shows are on or the world of ballet fashion, like we have now with the wonderful world of internet fashion blogs – but, just think about the anticipation, the excitement of discovering something new and the buzz in the air, the collective anticipation, building up to those first performances of the season. Now, that’s real magic! 💖

I adore discovering how the world of ballet wasn't just limited to the stage! In 1950, there was a resurgence of interest in ballet amongst the general public. Magazines like "Dancing Times" were bringing the latest ballet trends and news right to people's homes, just like my little blog! 💖

I always love seeing the beautiful and fashionable ways the general public embraces ballet and it's always interesting to look back and see what people found inspiring!

There's something truly magical about discovering ballet's history! 1950 reminds me of how much the art form has evolved, but the passion, the love for dance, and that magical aura surrounding it - those are timeless! ✨

Don't forget to tune in next week for another thrilling voyage back in time, as we explore the Christmas ballet history of yet another era! I can't wait to show you what's next, it's going to be absolutely phenomenal! 💖

Until then, keep those tutus twirling! ✨

Love,

Emma

xx

P.S. Have you been following my favourite fashion blogs and Instagram accounts? I’m loving @VintageBalletChic, @DanceWearDirect, and @TheBalletLifestyle – be sure to follow them for all the latest news, trends and incredible fashion inspiration from around the world of ballet! You won't regret it, my darlings! 💖