Hello my darling dancers,
It’s your favourite pink-tutu-clad ballerina blogger, Emma, back with another whirlwind tour through time. Today, we’re waltzing our way back to 1636, a year that marks a turning point for ballet, a time of grand gestures and courtly dances, a true “coming out party” for ballet as an art form.
Imagine a world before pointe shoes and tutus, a time when elegance and grace were embodied in graceful steps and sweeping movements, and the art of storytelling unfolded through choreographed expressions. Sounds enchanting, doesn't it?
But back in 1636, this elegant dance form wasn't quite the theatrical spectacle we see today. It was mainly associated with royal courts, a way for the aristocracy to express their power and refinement. Ballet was a privileged spectacle, a secret gem enjoyed by those in the highest circles. But oh darling, change was on the horizon!
The King of France, Louis XIII, a true fan of the arts, decided to spice things up a bit with a unique, groundbreaking production called “Le Ballet de la Royne.” This wasn’t just another courtly dance routine; it was a theatrical extravaganza filled with grand costumes, elaborate sets, and storytelling through choreography. It was the birth of ballet as we know it!
While ballet has evolved tremendously since 1636, the foundation laid by Louis XIII and his court paved the way for the amazing shows we see today.
Let's chat a little about fashion. Fashion back then wasn't all about the tutu and leg warmers – more about elegant gowns and powdered wigs! While not your standard ballerina garb, the ladies would dance in gorgeous gowns of silks and satins, adorned with lavish lace and embroidery. And gentlemen, oh dear, they'd be sporting richly patterned velvet suits and stockings. So, lots of fancy footwork but not quite ready for those street performance pink tutus just yet, darling.
For you history buffs out there, ballet in 1636 was about showing off the royal court’s opulence and highlighting the sophistication of French society. Think ornate stages, exquisite costumes and, of course, highly choreographed routines. Imagine waltzing into a ballroom adorned with a magnificent crystal chandelier and you’ve got the right picture of what life felt like back then!
But don’t be mistaken! Even in 1636, people were always striving for more - bigger, bolder, and more elaborate. There’s a lot to be said for their ambition, darling.
As always, I love looking into the history of ballet. It’s all so fascinating! The sheer ambition, the grand gestures, the innovative creations – there’s an enchanting energy to it, even in a world of powdered wigs and courtly dance! Now, imagine me back in 1636, my pink tutu sparkling beneath a grand chandelier in the Palace of Versailles!
However, if you want to be in touch with your inner dancer, don't forget your local dance studios. And for my fellow ballet fashion enthusiasts, there's nothing quite like shopping for new dance wear or accessories - a lovely pair of shoes, a pretty new tutu... oh dear, I'm dreaming of my next ballet-inspired fashion splurge!
Speaking of which, here’s a bit of what’s going on in the world of ballet right now! The Royal Ballet has just announced its upcoming performance of the ballet, "The Nutcracker", it’s a classic, and the choreography will make you want to twirl like crazy. And if you’re in the mood for something a bit more contemporary, there’s a new dance company in London doing a series of street performances with some incredible costumes and moves. It’s called “Tutu Urban”, and it's pretty much what my street performance dream is made of! It's all so exciting! I need to visit these shows ASAP.
Until next time my lovely dancers, stay bright and stylish! And don’t forget - never let go of that dream of twirling around in a fabulous pink tutu!
Your dear friend and fellow ballerina,
Emma xx
