Hello lovelies! Emma here, back with another dazzling dive into ballet history! Buckle up, my dears, because this week we're jetting back to 1708, a time of grand balls and elegant gestures.
I must confess, as a fellow Derbyshire lass (yes, I'm from the glorious Peak District, you know!), 1708 feels a bit like my own time. Can you imagine? London in 1708 would have been buzzing with anticipation for the grand social seasons - the dances, the music, the theatre! Ah, the exquisite social scene. The thought of waltzing through a ballroom, clad in a frothy silk dress, gives me goosebumps!
Now, before we get lost in daydreams, let's talk ballet! 1708 is, unfortunately, not a standout year for revolutionary leaps or innovative techniques. We are still in the nascent stages of ballet's evolution. It was during this period that ballet moved from being mainly a court entertainment to a stage spectacle - a transition that would ultimately shape the ballet we know and adore today!
But fret not, my lovelies, the ballet world of 1708 wasn't barren! The famous Paris Opera Ballet was a roaring success, enthralling audiences with elaborate spectacles. Imagine, choreographies packed with mythology, gods and goddesses gracefully flitting through magnificent sets - talk about a showstopper! And guess what? Fashion was a dazzling spectacle as well. We're talking luxurious silk and lace dresses with huge panniers to create a dramatically wide skirt, a symphony of colours, and dazzling jewels.
My dears, I can almost imagine the swooning applause! The excitement, the passion! While ballet today may look different, it’s heartwarming to realise the heart of ballet has always been the same: an enchanting expression of artistry and grace.
Speaking of enthralling spectacles, let me tell you about something truly dazzling! While travelling through time (using my street performance skills - a little secret, hush!), I caught a glimpse of a show called “The Enchanted Island” in London's Drury Lane Theatre. Can you imagine? This spectacle combined music, song, and dance, a captivating mix that had everyone mesmerised.
Now, you've gotta hear about the fashion! Let me tell you, it was a veritable feast for the eyes. They used panniers to create a wonderfully dramatic silhouette, but not so big that they'd prevent some charmingly fluid movements! A little twirling was still in order. They also used colourful satins and velvets for their dresses - we're talking greens, blues, pinks! Imagine my delight!
Fashion in those days was as much about self-expression as it was about elegance. A dancer's outfit would tell a story even before a single step was taken! And speaking of stories, have I got a tale for you! In 1708, an incredible Italian ballet dancer, Francoise Prevost, was captivating audiences in London with her astonishing agility and dazzling artistry! Her performance is said to have enthralled the entire theatre. I can just picture her, floating through the air, radiating elegance with each movement!
Now, back to present day, because, let’s be honest, we are all about the now. And in today's world, we’re blessed with a world of vibrant fashion and incredible dance performances.
For the fashionable ballerina, the choices are endless: from intricate tutu styles to effortlessly chic street wear. Remember, we want that pink tutu on every street corner, no matter what your style! It’s not about conforming to trends, it’s about embracing individuality! We’re talking sleek crop tops and wide leg pants, a bold pink statement tutu for a day of ballet class or perhaps a delicate tulle skirt over a cute dress. It’s a celebration of ourselves, and a love for the magic of dance!
We can take inspiration from those graceful, poised ballerinas of 1708. But let’s be real, ladies, it’s time to bring a whole new level of pizazz! Remember to follow @pink_tutu on all socials and tell me what you’re rocking!
Until next time, my dearest ballet beauties, dance with abandon! ✨💖
