History of Ballet in 1652

Hello, my lovelies! Emma here, back with another trip through time to discover the delightful history of ballet. This time, we're waltzing back to the glorious year 1652, and let me tell you, it’s going to be an absolute treat. We’re heading to Paris, darling! Imagine a Parisian salon filled with ladies in magnificent gowns, the aroma of perfume lingering in the air, and, of course, the most wonderful dancing you’ve ever witnessed!

Remember that pink tutu I’ve got my eye on? Well, darling, this is when those gorgeous ruffles and frills first emerged onto the scene, replacing the rather cumbersome attire ballerinas were forced to wear in earlier times. Can you believe that? This is a year of liberation, my dears! It’s as if those wonderful dancers decided to ditch their weighty, restricting dresses for the lightness of silk and satin, freeing their limbs to tell beautiful stories through movement.

You see, darlings, before this point, the royal court favoured stately court dances. The King's entertainment, a rather sedate affair, didn’t require a whole lot of whirling and twirling. And if you could picture what was worn back then, you’d likely be thinking of layers and layers of fabric! Imagine, trying to gracefully twirl in a dress so thick you could practically sit on it. No wonder the ladies only took a few delicate steps.

But thank goodness 1652 arrives, as if a gentle breeze of fashion had decided to waft across France, whispering “tutu, my love! tutu!” Imagine the excitement of those who danced! Those early dancers - their skill was certainly exceptional. Imagine learning such delicate, elaborate steps in those bulky dresses. It took some incredible grace and skill to perform in that heavy finery. It makes me truly admire these ladies.

Let's think back, my dears, to 1652, that magical year. A group of brilliant dancers in Paris, called “The Royal Academy of Music,” started the fashion revolution in ballet. Gone were those heavy skirts, in their place something a bit lighter - the “corset”, designed for the most delightful figure-hugging and graceful movements, creating a silhouette, let's be frank, that would give even a modern ballerina a little heart flutters.

Then, like magic, a “basque” (a shorter jacket) appeared, perfectly placed over those beautiful corsets, providing the very first glimpse of that divine structure that's oh-so essential in a tutu! Those corsets, darling, made a statement - all about highlighting the figure, drawing attention to a woman's natural beauty. And that’s how a ballet costume could start its magical transformation, going from layers of fabric and embellishment to something elegant and flowing.

If we’re talking fashion, my dears, ballet fashion in 1652 was all about sophistication. Imagine lace, velvet, and silk adorning every piece of fabric! The colour palette? Opulence itself! Rich burgundy, emerald green, golden yellow, and yes, my lovelies, even a little touch of pink! Just a little sprinkle here and there, because in 1652, pink was still quite the special colour.

Just imagine the buzz of excitement as this new fashion trend was embraced across France. We can almost imagine whispers in salons, "Darling, did you see those lovely ballet costumes, and that 'tutu' as the dancers call it?" And everyone agreed, darling, it was magnificent!

Don’t forget, in the year 1652, the theatre scene in France was alive and kicking, bustling with activity! You can just picture “L'Opéra,” with its elegant grandeur. It must have been a fantastic spectacle, dazzling audiences with its lavish décor. Even the scenery in these ballet performances was incredibly elaborate. The costumes themselves told stories through intricate patterns and details - an enchanting sight to see, especially as a ballerina!

Let's take a peep into the year 1652 and its ballet repertoire. Think of it as a time when “Mythology Meets Music!” You would be treated to pieces about Greek and Roman gods. Ballet "heroes” fought their way through battles, all while keeping an elegant figure. You’d have the delightful dances from Greek "nymphs" and graceful "cupids” flitting across the stage. It's simply divine, don't you think?

Think, "love", "adventure", and "triumph" – these are the themes that set the heart of every dancer in this era racing. If you can picture the scene in your mind's eye, imagine a stage alive with a delightful tapestry of colour, movement, and music. Now that’s an experience fit for royalty, don't you agree, my lovelies?

So, what’s in store for us next? Oh darling, it’s going to be so much fun! The next chapter will focus on a fascinating event - The arrival of a very special Italian dancer called Giovanni Francesco Albani. We'll see what new, exciting steps he introduced, the ballet techniques he created. Just think, dearie, this may be where the ballet as we know it starts! It's going to be a thrilling ride! Stay tuned to this website to see it all unfold. Until then, keep dancing, keep shining, and remember: "a pink tutu a day keeps the blues away." You know I am simply passionate about pink, it just fits my spirit, and I do love the colour of these fabulous dresses. Do you love pink, my loves? Leave me your favourite pink tutu fashion and the name of a ballet piece you enjoyed this week. I’d love to hear your stories!

Until next time, my gorgeous darlings!

Yours, Emma x