Hey there, darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad ballet aficionado, Emma, back with another peek into the fascinating history of our beloved dance! This time, we're taking a whirl back to 1759, a year overflowing with drama, delightful fashion, and, of course, ballet! Grab your tea, slip into your prettiest pink tutu (a classic tutu, a Romantic one, whatever takes your fancy!), and let's dance through the past!
As always, my little lovelies, let's chat fashion first. Oh, the colours, the fabrics! The gowns of the era were so breathtaking, and not a hint of black in sight! Think delicate pastel silks, luxurious satins in the softest hues of blue, green and lavender, and layers of lace so fine, they’d practically melt away. The ladies were positively blooming with feminine charm! Imagine yourself swirling in a blush pink dress with billowing skirts, accented by delicate jewels, and a matching shawl draped over your shoulders – absolutely divine!
Speaking of the year 1759, what was happening in the ballet world? It was a grand time for dance, my lovelies. It was an exciting time, just on the cusp of new forms, and new dance movements. I could just picture myself in one of the grand opera houses, taking in the opulent setting with it's gilt-covered railings and glittering chandeliers, ready to be enchanted. I would, of course, be wearing my most spectacular pink tutu, with sparkling embellishments catching the light and making my fellow theatre goers jealous.
There were also the amazing ballerinas of the day – so much poise and grace! Marie Sallé was all the rage – she was renowned for her naturalism and her revolutionary innovations. It’s no wonder that in 1759 she made a sensational return to the stage, creating a whirlwind of excitement. It was truly a remarkable comeback for such an exceptional dancer. And let’s not forget Jean-Georges Noverre, the father of modern ballet! He revolutionised the way we look at dance, bringing storytelling and emotions into the mix, truly transforming ballet from a purely decorative art into something that could touch the heart.
Oh, to have been transported to one of the opulent performances! Think the Palais Royal in Paris or the Drury Lane in London – all shimmering chandeliers and bustling crowds, and the thrill of seeing dancers gliding across the stage. It must have been something to behold! The dancing wasn’t quite like the ballet we know today - think of a graceful dance that showcased artistry with storytelling and beauty.
You know, one of my favourite aspects of travelling through time is seeing the ballet through different eras and experiencing the fashion that matches each period. It’s a feast for the senses. We love the fashion here in the 21st century. I, for one, can't get enough of the extravagant dresses and costumes of all sorts and I, for one, wouldn't hesitate to don a pink tutu any chance I get! We all love wearing a gorgeous tutu of any style! They’re so magical. They make you feel like a true ballerina!
You can just imagine, dearies, those glorious ballets - the artistry, the movement! There was so much to see! The ballet of the time may be less “grand jeté” and more about dramatic posing and elegant grace. Still, it would have been breathtaking. It reminds us that the magic of ballet, the story told through movement, transcends time. The joy of dance is something we can all experience and appreciate.
So, let's raise a toast, darling! A toast to the timeless allure of ballet, the breathtaking fashion of bygone eras, and the pink tutus that unite us! We may live in a world of swirling tulle and fabulous heels, but even in the 18th century, the ballet was a shining example of human beauty, expression, and the enduring power of love, emotion, and stories. Let’s celebrate it all with a big smile, a happy twirl, and, of course, our most stunning pink tutus!
Love, Emma xx
(Remember to subscribe for the next post for the Pink Tutu History, where I go deeper into 1759, maybe even tell you what my favourite pink tutu to wear in 1759 was).
