History of Ballet in 1593

Hey gorgeous ballet lovers,

Welcome back to Pink Tutu's Ballet History Blog, where we journey through time, discovering the enchanting history of ballet! It's me, your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballet enthusiast, Emma, back from another exciting escapade, this time to the year 1593!

I’ve always had a special affection for the Renaissance period, with its elegant art, flowing fashions, and a fascination with the human body – it just screams ballet, doesn’t it?

But before we dive into the history, let’s talk fashion! Because, let's be honest, ballet is all about the sparkle, the style, and the flair. And trust me, 1593 is a time when you wouldn’t want to miss a street fashion show. Imagine billowing silks, velvet gowns, dazzling jewels, and an array of gorgeous hats that would make even the most stylish millennial gasp. Forget streetwear – it’s all about streetWEAR in 1593, and my pink tutu totally stood out.

Anyway, onto the historical bits…

Ballet - Not quite ready to take the stage

The year 1593 isn't really about the formalized "ballet" we know and love. It’s the seed-planting stage! Now, don’t get me wrong, court dances, dances performed in festivals, and all kinds of lively movement have been part of life for ages. Think playful footwork, flowing movements, and stories told through movement. Think ancient Egypt! Think Ancient Greece! But we’re still talking about early stages.

Italy’s “Balletto”

Across the channel, things are taking shape in Italy! We are talking about “Balletto”, with elaborate court performances in Venice, Florence, and the Vatican. There were theatrical presentations with dancing elements, but this was a whole new thing.

The King’s Men and Shakespeare!

But remember, we are talking about the year 1593 – in London, where history unfolds. That's the year William Shakespeare, our beloved bard of poetry, tragedy and drama, started acting in London! The "King’s Men", his theatrical company, was getting big, putting on dazzling plays at the Rose and the Globe. And these weren't just shows; they were a celebration of life and performance! Think lively, entertaining plays with captivating dancing elements – definitely some potential for the birth of "ballet", don’t you think?

Let's Get Creative:

I know you love fashion, as much as I do, and this era was an absolute fashion show! I went for a softer, more elegant silhouette to fit the aesthetic of 1593 – a delicate pale pink tutu with layers of tulle, all held up by a high-waisted velvet corset. Think dainty elegance with just a dash of a “look-at-me” edge! I know you all have a pink tutu or two, so grab yours, put on some Renaissance era music, and imagine a time where ballet was in the making.

Let me know what you think in the comments and don’t forget to post a photo with the hashtag #pinktutu1593! And, my lovely ballet lovers, join me next week as we travel back in time to another year brimming with excitement and inspiration in ballet history!

Keep on dancing, Emma x