Hello, darlings! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood ballerina and time traveller, back with another dazzling dose of ballet history. This week, we're skipping back to 1649, a year that was nothing short of revolutionary for our beloved dance form. Buckle up your ballet slippers, my dears, as we take a magical trip to a time when dance took centre stage in the most unexpected of ways.
As a true lover of all things pink and tutu-tastic, my journey through time often involves a quick stop for a wardrobe change. For this trip to the 17th century, I found myself indulging in a delightfully dramatic pink silk dress with panniers - very Marie Antoinette vibes! A hint of gold embroidery, some shimmering pearl embellishments and a matching, feather-trimmed pink hat, just to top it off!
Now, back to our tale! In the heart of Europe, the French monarchy, in all its powdered wigs and opulent gowns, was the heart of ballet and dance. While earlier forms of court dance existed in Italy and France, 1649 marked a turning point.
Imagine my joy when I landed right in the midst of King Louis XIV - the Sun King - holding his first Grand Bal! It was quite a scene. Hundreds of courtiers twirling and pirouetting to music in grand, gilded halls adorned with tapestries and portraits of famous ballet stars. Can you even imagine, darling? I couldn’t have dreamed up a more fabulous setting for our journey.
This was, however, more than just a glamorous ball. It was a showcase of dance that elevated it to a full-blown artistic movement! This is where the foundation of the ballet we know today started to form, and the ballet company - a troop of dancers who rehearsed and performed together - started taking shape. Imagine - dedicated teams of performers, a repertoire of choreography, the spectacle of costumes and the beauty of movement as one entity! Truly revolutionary!
Oh, but the beauty didn’t stop at the court! Fashion, in this era, was all about exuberant layers, a grand sense of volume, and elaborate decorations. Ladies favoured hoop skirts, large lace collars and embroidered sleeves, a testament to the elegant artistry of fashion! For gentlemen, it was about opulent silk brocades, ruffled shirts, and powdered wigs. Their style, much like the court dance, held a captivating, formal, and graceful quality - much like the moves themselves!
Speaking of moves, have you heard about the famous French choreographer Pierre Beauchamps, darling? This amazing individual formalised dance techniques during this period. He's credited with being a true pioneer, introducing the five basic ballet positions that every ballerina still practices today! You wouldn’t believe how many hours I spend practicing my fifth position! You wouldn't believe how much my street performance earnings help fuel my ballet and vintage clothing collection.
As my time travel adventures teach me, every era of dance brings something new and exquisite to our beautiful art form! Now, to get back to the present day and tell you all about the dazzling ballet shows happening now!
I recently witnessed a stunning performance of 'Swan Lake', darling. The costumes, oh my goodness, they were like visions of white! They reminded me of those magnificent 17th century gowns, just refined for a modern take! Imagine the exquisite tutus in their pure whiteness, embodying the story of the swan's transformation! It was truly a treat!
In the world of ballet fashion, pastel shades, tulle, and embroidery are all the rage! The iconic ballerina look is in high demand, with soft pink hues and exquisite tutus - and of course, lots of sparkle! Remember to check out my online store!
Until next week, my darlings! Keep your tutus ready and your passion burning! I can't wait to twirl you through the history of ballet! Remember, pink is the way to go and every ballerina deserves a pink tutu, darling!
