Oh darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed blogger, back with another peek into the magical world of Christmas ballet history. Today, we're twirling back to 1962 - a year that, let's be honest, could really use a dose of sparkly Christmas cheer, especially in the world of ballet fashion.
The year began with the glittering news of a new ballet company opening its doors in London. The English National Ballet (then known as the London Festival Ballet) made its debut with "Swan Lake", the ballet that launched a thousand tutus. And my oh my, did those tutus sparkle! Can you imagine the thrill of seeing those pristine white tutus, feathers dancing in the air, against the backdrop of Tchaikovsky's hauntingly beautiful score? Honestly, the entire audience would have felt like they were in a magical winter wonderland.
This era also saw the rise of some real fashion icons, both on stage and on the street. We're talking Audrey Hepburn with her chic elegance and* Twiggy, the embodiment of the swinging 60s! The women on stage started to break free from traditional dancewear, incorporating elements of street style like those amazing *shift dresses and the effortlessly cool high boots.
Speaking of the 60s, remember when those bold geometric prints were everywhere? That’s why I am particularly enamored with Peter Darrell's "The Eve of St. Agnes". He truly had his finger on the pulse of the times! His use of geometric design and bright colours to represent the visions and dreams within Keats' poem was just genius. And don't even get me started on the vibrant, free-flowing movement in his choreography! Honestly, it made me want to break out my own colourful outfit and twirl through the streets like there’s no tomorrow.
But you know me, I can’t go too long without talking about tututastic affairs! The festive season of 1962 saw some truly spectacular productions around the world.
First off, imagine my delight at finding out about the "Nutcracker" at the New York City Ballet! And this wasn’t just any "Nutcracker", my dear readers. This was the premiere of Balanchine’s version, a Christmas ballet masterpiece with choreography that continues to captivate audiences today! It was all about the dazzling choreography and elegant costumes, I'm pretty sure the audience gasped at the sheer beauty of those exquisite tutus and the enchanting story that unfolded on stage.
On the other side of the pond, the Royal Ballet graced the London stage with their own special offering, "The Sleeping Beauty", featuring the magical work of Frederick Ashton. There is nothing more magical than the Christmas story of love conquering all with gorgeous sets, elaborate costumes and intricate choreography. Who wouldn’t be spellbound? This year saw the perfect opportunity to bring out those majestic, dramatic tutus and just let the romance flow!
Now, darling, we can't forget about the magic that only a Christmas ballet can bring! The enchanting atmosphere of the theater, the twinkling lights, the sound of the orchestra…all contribute to creating the most magical festive experience! And I don't need to mention the joy on children's faces as they watched the Nutcracker or Sleeping Beauty, or the thrill that ran through the air when the ballerinas gracefully pirouetted onto the stage. Honestly, even if it’s just watching these breathtaking performances online, we all can still find those precious memories!
But my festive adventures in 1962 didn't just take place in theaters. Imagine my joy of going on a Christmas shopping spree in London! Picture it: gorgeous department stores with displays filled with sparkly decorations and the aroma of freshly baked Christmas treats filling the air. It's a Christmastime shopping dream come true! This was a time for discovering unique, vintage Christmas decorations and scouring local boutiques for that perfect ballerina outfit, a perfect pre-Christmas shopping trip.
As always, it wouldn't be a proper Emma post without mentioning the fashion! I’m in awe of the ballerina's outfits, they really were something special! Imagine dancing around in a glamorous dress with sparkling embellishments – pure Christmas magic, don't you think? Remember those exquisite beaded gowns we see on the actresses in films of that time? Well, those made their way to the stage too, bringing a touch of vintage elegance to every step.
Of course, all this talk of Christmas ballet and 60s fashion makes me wonder about the next time I'll be whisked off through time! With my street dance fund overflowing thanks to my dazzling street performances (yes, in my tutu, of course), I'm sure a magical ballet journey awaits. Will it be the era of the tutu explosion? Will I encounter ballet greats like Margot Fonteyn or Rudolf Nureyev? Only time (and a little bit of pink-tutu magic) will tell!
And remember my loves, if you find yourself getting wrapped up in the magic of the holiday season this year, think about taking your family or friends to see a performance of "The Nutcracker" or "Sleeping Beauty". The experience will leave you breathless, believe me! I promise it will be more than just watching the ballerinas dance, it will be a Christmas story to tell, a magic memory to keep close!
And don’t forget, I want to see you rocking a pink tutu this Christmas! It's time to twirl into the festive season in style!
Keep those tutus spinning, darling!
Emma
