Debate: Are tutus old-fashioned or a vital part of ballet's heritage and identity?

The definitive piece of ballet costume has been around for nearly 200 years, but is it still relevant in the 21st century?

BY CHRIS SHIPMAN (CONTENT PRODUCER (SOCIAL MEDIA AND NEWS))
7 APRIL 2015 AT 12.42PM | 2 COMMENTS

It's perhaps the enduring image of ballet in popular culture – a flat pancake tutu floating, framing a ballerina's waist as she jetés her way across stage or screen.

The tutu made its debut in 1832 worn around the waist of the great Marie Taglioni in her father Filippo's production of La Sylphide for Paris Opera Ballet. Taglioni's tutu wasn't quite the same style as the ones we see gracing dance stages around the world in the 21st century – her skirt was more bell-shaped than modern designs. Nevertheless, a design classic was born, and was swiftly adopted elsewhere (despite being problematic for ballerina and partner alike).

But after nearly 200 years, are tutus old fashioned? Doubtless, tutus still have their fans (just take a look at Twitter each week on #TutuTuesday) but modern ballet choreographers and designers seem increasingly to be turning away from the tutu, adopting different forms of dance costume – from shimmering, flowing dresses to more production-specific costumes that give a greater sense of character and setting.

We asked our Twitter following for their thoughts on the idea that tutus are old-fashioned:
http://www.roh.org.uk/news/debate-are-t … d-identity

yes, we do! thank you!