Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where we explore the enchanting history of ballet – a journey I wouldn't trade for all the world! It's Emma here, your favourite tutu-wearing, pink-loving ballet historian, ready to whisk you away to the year 1622 – the year that marked a truly special milestone in ballet's journey!
It feels a little surreal to say this, but in the 17th century, the concept of "ballet" was a rather recent addition to the world. And it was quite unlike the graceful, expressive art form we know and love today. But 1622 brought with it a very special moment in the evolution of ballet, when Louis XIII, the king of France, was completely bowled over by a magnificent ballet he witnessed, called "Le Ballet de la Royne," or, in English, "The Queen's Ballet."
This breathtaking performance was held in honor of the wedding of Queen Anne of Austria to Louis XIII himself, at the royal Château de Fontainebleau. Can you imagine, darling? The grand palace, the swirling gowns, the excitement buzzing through the air as the dancers performed with such beauty and grace – simply divine! This particular ballet involved 100 performers in glorious costumes and opulent sets, making it an incredible sight to behold! The dance included many themes and characters from Roman mythology – quite the dramatic choice, don't you think?
Imagine the sheer magnificence of those intricate, flowing costumes! It must have been a truly dazzling spectacle!
Now, let's talk about the dancers – not exactly what we'd see at Covent Garden today! Ballet, in its earliest forms, was truly theatrical. The performers weren’t just dancing – they were acting, singing, and using dramatic expressions, almost like a play. The ballet, as we know it, was just beginning to be shaped – but it was already beginning to touch people’s hearts.
Now, speaking of my very own heart, the world of ballet in 1622 just makes me feel so inspired. All that extravagance! Such intricate choreography, I imagine! And oh, the costumes… those flowing robes and richly decorated headdresses must have been a vision.
Of course, I have my trusty time machine to peek in on the performances of the past, you know, in case I ever find myself getting bored of Covent Garden (and oh darling, let’s be real, who would ever get bored of Covent Garden? Especially not me, ever!). And for those of you who want to experience the magic for yourself – but without leaving your comfortable sofas! – I've just found the perfect show: "The Ballet of the Queen" is on tour in the West End!
The choreography – it's simply breath-taking! Just like those court ballets from 1622. The story unfolds through exquisite movements and gorgeous, sweeping sets that make you feel transported back in time. The costume designer, my darling, she deserves a round of applause! I can't imagine it would have been easy recreating the beauty and extravagance of that time period, and they look so fabulous, all so stylish and captivating!
Of course, when I go, I always add my own little flair! You simply can’t wear the traditional tutu for this show (unless, of course, you’re feeling very rebellious). I’m thinking maybe something with more structure - something with more elegance! Maybe a beautifully embellished floor-length skirt with a tiny touch of pink. A tiny touch!
Speaking of fabulous fashions, did you know that in the 1600s, high fashion and ballet often collided? And not just on stage! A beautiful fashion example was Marie de Medici’s portrait by Rubens. Look up the image darling, it’s absolutely divine! She's dressed in all those fine materials – and you just know there's a hidden tutu in there somewhere! Just maybe. Maybe, darling, if we're lucky, maybe we can see an reimagining of that iconic image in this ballet.
After the tour wraps up, I simply must find a way to bring the beautiful pieces into my wardrobe – for street performance purposes, of course. Oh, how I wish we could time travel back to this year just to shop those stores in Paris! There are also wonderful museums where I’ve heard they exhibit period clothing and have wonderful shows on ballet’s evolution! It makes me dream of making a little ballet trip in the future. And then, we can talk fashion – because every balletomane deserves the ultimate Parisian shopping experience, darling!
There you have it, lovelies! Our journey through 1622 in the history of ballet! Let me know in the comments what your favourite era in ballet history is. I want to know! As always, remember, wear your tutu with pride! Every single one of us can be a ballerina in our hearts. Keep on twirling, my lovely lovelies, keep on twirling!
xx Emma.
