Hello darlings! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu-enthusiast, ready to whisk you back in time to a year full of breathtaking ballet and fashion delights: 1833!
I'm so excited to share a little bit of ballet history with you all, especially as it’s a time that influenced so many ballet innovations we see today! Now, pack your imaginary suitcases, pop on a pretty pink tutu – I’m even wearing my fanciest one for this trip – and let's journey together!
First things first, picture a world of grand theatres shimmering with candlelight, beautiful music filling the air, and the most enchanting stories told through dance. In 1833, ballet wasn't just a performance; it was a spectacle! People flocked to the theatre to see what new magical creations our favourite ballerinas had conjured up on stage.
What Were People Watching?
Let’s talk about some of the fantastic productions captivating audiences! You wouldn't want to miss "La Sylphide" – a dreamy ballet with a captivating plot and dazzling choreography! This ballet premiered back in 1832 but continued to sweep the stages in 1833! The costumes? So very ethereal! Think wispy white tutus, ethereal fabrics and flowing sleeves! Sigh… so romantic!
Then there's "La Fille Mal Gardée," another story that captured hearts and imaginations! It's about a charming but rebellious young woman and her love story. The characters in this piece, darling, they’re truly brought to life! Imagine vibrant, colorful peasant dresses swirling around as these lovely dancers twirled across the stage!
But the true star of this year was Marie Taglioni. This ballerina! Just think of all the amazing roles she graced with her delicate technique! She made a graceful waltz into our hearts. Her influence, though subtle, would revolutionize the world of ballet for decades to come.
Fashion and Frills!
As much as I adore the breathtaking ballets of this time, 1833 also brought forth a dazzling display of fashion! The stage, with its elegance and refinement, influenced the attire of ladies everywhere. Think soft flowing skirts, romantic blouses with delicate lace, and that touch of understated sparkle!
Imagine the ball gowns! So romantic, with ruffles and delicate details. There’s no surprise that so many ladies began sporting romantic dresses, blouses, and hairstyles, mirroring those seen on stage! Even men had a more relaxed style! They embraced comfortable coats, crisp shirts and pants – not the constricting jackets and high waistcoats of the past!
And of course, let’s not forget about the shoes! Slippers and shoes, my darlings, began to be constructed of softer fabrics, making every step look like it was flowing! This new movement and flow is precisely why dancing changed so significantly, becoming less about precise, strict choreography and more about freedom of movement, something we see today.
Where Were They Performing?
One of the most enchanting spots for a show was, of course, the Paris Opera Ballet. Imagine a lavish space, exquisite décor, and the energy of the Parisian crowds, all wrapped into one unforgettable experience! Ballet lovers all flocked there! Even today, The Paris Opera Ballet is a hub for showcasing beautiful ballets.
And of course, we cannot forget about the London Opera House - the biggest stage in London for opera and ballet! It was one of the most lavish stages! It saw its fair share of beautiful dancers and dazzling sets! A true spectacle of its time!
Why It Matters!
Why should we remember 1833 in our love affair with ballet? This year saw significant movement away from the strict style of ballet seen in the past and the beginning of the graceful fluidity and grace that defines modern ballet. Not only that, the ballet scene was thriving, audiences were ecstatic and more and more people flocked to the theatre for their dance fix.
As I say to all my beautiful readers - make every day a day for appreciating the art of dance! Find a tutu you love (of course, pink!), wear it and dance! Or, take in a beautiful performance in a local theatre! After all, that's what brings joy to everyone! Until next time, darlings!
Emma 💖
P.S: Be sure to let me know in the comments what your favorite ballet is!
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