Hey, darlings! Emma here, your favourite tutu-loving ballerina, back with another trip through the magic of Christmas ballet history. This week, we're heading back to 1997 – a year overflowing with sparkle and glamour, and where Christmas ballet was reaching new heights!
It’s almost December, and I'm already starting to feel the festive fever rising. That sparkly, shimmering feeling of anticipation and the excitement for those stunning Christmas ballet performances are getting to me, darling! And you know me – when it comes to Christmas ballet history, there’s always a good time to reminisce and look at some of those magical performances that continue to inspire and delight us.
Now, let’s rewind the clock to the late 90s! The year is 1997, and it feels like a lifetime ago, doesn't it? Remember the Spice Girls and boy bands, dial-up internet, and the Tamagotchi craze? Well, the world of ballet was equally fascinating! We were seeing the rise of amazing new talents like Alina Cojocaru and Sylvie Guillem, while legendary ballerinas like Margot Fonteyn and Natalia Makarova continued to inspire and leave a mark on the world of dance.
1997 also marked the arrival of the “Nutcracker!” ballet craze, and what a craze it was, darlings! Suddenly everyone was swept away by the enchantment of Tchaikovsky’s magical score and the dazzling story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince. And, darling, imagine my joy at seeing this classic, timeless piece, with those absolutely fabulous tutus and stunning costumes! I think they really caught the essence of the magical holiday. I even designed a pink tutu for one of my street performances last month inspired by one of the ballerina costumes. The sparkle really does make it special.
Remember, darling, that Christmas ballet wasn’t just about watching amazing dancers in incredible costumes. It was also a time for the entire family to get together, enjoy some festive cheer and indulge in some delicious treats. In 1997, we also saw a growing interest in ballet fashion, and darling, I absolutely adored it!
My, oh my! Remember those amazing designs, the sequined frocks, and velvet cloaks? They really gave us an insight into the magical, enchanted world of ballet and perfectly complimented the themes of magic, beauty, and wonder. Of course, a pink tutu is always a go-to piece in the Christmas ballet fashion realm! And don’t get me started on the incredible shoe designs and dazzling accessories – from elegant jeweled earrings to the perfect shimmering ballet slipper! I absolutely love browsing vintage fashion stores for those fabulous finds!
And talking about finding some real gems, darling, there’s a stunning Christmas Ballet show at The Royal Opera House – I can’t miss that! The show is called “The Sleeping Beauty”, and it’s featuring the stunning Alina Cojocaru! Just picture it - The gorgeous costumes, a gorgeous setting with that exquisite ballet – my dream, darling! Now, if I could just figure out how to sneak in that special little something for the ballerina outfit...
I simply adore taking trips back to different eras. It gives me a peek into those wonderful costumes, that stunning dance and the magical worlds they create – a ballerina's dream, darling! I find myself so drawn to the timeless nature of Christmas ballet. It’s so full of magical stories and beautiful music – and every year it never fails to captivate and charm its way into my heart. It’s something we can all share together.
It also really helps when it comes to getting my own performances together! A good old look back is always inspiration. I really hope my performances add that touch of magic, even if it is just on the streets. That sparkle on the faces, especially the kids! You just have to love a ballet tutu – the classic, the modern, the new style – that iconic look is something special! I just love that sparkle on stage, and everyone gets into that holiday spirit! And a Christmas ballet with a pink tutu? It doesn't get better than that, darling.
So, let’s raise a glass to 1997 – a year that embraced Christmas ballet, the festive spirit and that magical feeling that just comes with that season. And let's not forget to remember that amazing ballet fashion! And a massive cheer for my next big project - the goal of a world covered in pink tutus - the tutu revolution!
What a vision – a world of pink tutus! But we need to keep adding that magic. And if it means bringing back Christmas ballet in all its glitter and grandeur, then I'm all in. It’s just so much fun!
Until next time, darlings,
Emma
P.S. I'm on the hunt for more of that festive Christmas Ballet inspiration! Share your favourite 1997 Christmas ballet moments in the comments below and remember, my little ballet bunnies – be sure to let your inner sparkle shine, darling, just like a perfectly-crafted pink tutu! You can check out my latest collection of pink tutus on my website! It's been inspired by some of those classic performances - and it’s just what your wardrobe needs!
