Hello lovelies! Emma here, back again with another trip down the memory lane of ballet. I'm practically bursting with excitement to share my latest historical find, because you won't believe the delightful year 1736 brought to the world of ballet! Think stunning new choreographies, dazzling performances and Parisian chic so on point it's almost painful to witness - from the comfort of my very own, pink, feather-boa-adorned, time-travelling bubble.
A Bit of a Dance Revolution
First, let's talk revolution, darling! Now, we all know how much I adore a good Parisian soiree, and 1736 was filled with them! This year saw the emergence of a completely new kind of dance called the "ballet d'action." Basically, forget those elaborate and overly-complicated story ballets of old, these were like little, bite-sized narratives. Imagine stories told through movement - it’s like watching a ballet version of your favourite TV drama, except without all the tedious dialogue!
The mastermind behind this dance revolution was Monsieur Jean-Georges Noverre, the most fabulous choreographer in all of France. Imagine a kind of flamboyant and slightly theatrical Monsieur Pierre Beirein, but with way more movement. Now imagine that in a Parisian boudoir, wearing an equally impressive feather-boa, and you have the gist of what Noverre was like.
Noverre envisioned ballets as “living pictures,” full of character, emotion, and a dramatic storytelling ability. Think graceful swan-like arms for heartbreak and a playful, bouncy sequence to represent joyous love. You just can't help but fall for this kind of balletic poetry. I definitely saw this as a major turning point for dance and an incredible opportunity to tell stories without even uttering a single word! The possibilities are limitless, darlings!
A Peek Inside The Opera Garnier
I happened to wander past the glorious Palais Garnier in Paris, the most beautiful and ostentatious opera house you could ever imagine. Now, although the theatre hadn't yet been built in this era, its future self was bursting with excitement! The year 1736, however, brought us the first official staging of The Royal Swedish Ballet in the elegant and breathtaking Paris Opera House, a beautiful baroque theatre built in the heart of the city. I managed to secure a fabulous front-row seat, naturally, and the opulence just left me speechless! I could hardly stop myself from clapping with delight throughout the entire show.
The audience was as stylish as the performances! Ladies decked out in their most delicate, lace-trimmed gowns, gentlemen in elaborate wigs, I practically fainted with delight at all the decadent beauty around me! Think powdered wigs and delicate lace, with a sprinkle of romantic ruffles – all perfect for dancing, wouldn't you say? Now, don't forget the must-have accessory - an opera mask! The sheer elegance of it all just transports you back to another era. And I won't lie, I think this might be my favourite way to go to the opera – so much romance!
Ballet Fashion: Parisian Chic With A Twist
Now, we can’t talk about a Parisian balletic adventure without mentioning fashion, darlings! The gowns, oh the gowns! This era was truly one for the ages. You can't go wrong with flowing silk gowns adorned with a thousand little glittering jewels. This season's must-have looks included:
The “panniered” gown: You’ll find me draped in these stunning designs – a massive, full-skirted ballgown, a magnificent silhouette with a huge puffed-up bottom, the epitome of romantic and delicate feminine charm.
Lace, Lace, Lace: We can’t talk about the 1730s fashion without mentioning the iconic lace that graced practically every garment. I must say, a tulle tutu paired with an elegant lace shawl makes the perfect vintage-inspired look, for any fashionista seeking that oh-so-feminine touch!
“Pompadour” hairstyles: These were all the rage! Think elaborately curled and coiffed hair styles adorned with sparkling jewels or delicate flowers. They made every lady look like a regal princess – so utterly romantic, even a modern-day ballerina can appreciate that, darling!
Now, to truly bring this period to life, don’t forget a powdered wig – think soft curls that fall perfectly over the shoulders, framing the face – absolute elegance! I just love how a touch of dramatic, period-specific flair, elevates the ballet look.
Keeping the Pink Tutu Dream Alive
I left 1736 feeling absolutely enthralled, darlings. The year’s emphasis on storytelling and emotional expression resonated deeply with me – as I imagine it has with every ballet-loving heart out there.
In fact, every trip into the past fills me with a desire to keep the Pink-Tutu dream alive, making ballet accessible to everyone – regardless of age, background, or whether they’ve seen a performance in an elegant Paris Opera House or a street corner in Derbyshire. It's not just about watching ballets or rocking a pink tutu, it's about embracing the stories, the artistry, the joy, the laughter – it's about expressing yourself.
I think this might just be the beginning of a completely new style of performance - think tutus on the street, not just in theaters! This year, 1736, reminds me that there is always room for creativity, innovation, and, of course, some serious glamour!
And remember lovelies, you don’t need a time machine to experience this wonderful world, a dash of pink and a splash of tulle can take you there, wherever you are!
Until next time, darling!
Lots of Love and Ballets,
Emma xoxo
