History of Ballet in 1845

Oh darlings! Get ready for a trip back in time with me to the glorious year of 1845, a year that truly burst with ballet brilliance! 🩰✨

You know me, I love a good time-traveling adventure, and this trip took me right to the heart of Victorian ballet. And let me tell you, even back then, the ballet world was buzzing with excitement!

This year, it’s all about theatrical innovation, refined artistry and some truly spectacular fashion statements, which, of course, includes an array of fabulous tutus, but that's not all… prepare to be amazed!

I have my trusty pink tutu, of course, and it’s proving the perfect garment for hopping between eras! After a dazzling performance on a busy London street corner – because street ballet, you know, is my secret passion – I whisked myself back to 1845 and dove right into the theatrical world.

It seems like the world of ballet is alive and kicking in 1845! Imagine, even back then, ballet was considered a thrilling, exhilarating spectacle.

• A Parisian Treat: Oh, how I adore Parisian charm! The most popular production was La Fille du Régiment, by the master, Gaetano Donizetti. I just imagine the swooning crowds! It's said to be an iconic story of love, honour, and music, and features one of the most famous operatic arias - a true classic.
• The Grand Theatre of London: Here in England, we're rocking our own productions too. At the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, the esteemed dancers, Marie Taglioni and Fanny Elssler, wowed audiences with their artistry, captivating everyone with their exquisite grace and powerful expressions. I can only dream of witnessing their performances live!
• New Choreography, New Excitement: There's so much movement in the ballet world, so many innovations and fresh interpretations. Jules Perrot's “Giselle” – yes, you guessed it, the iconic ballet with the tragic, yet graceful heroine! - was premiered back in 1841. Imagine that, only a few years back in time! The world is discovering Giselle's powerful story, the romanticism, the captivating passion. You simply must see this ballet for yourself!
• The Birth of The Romantic Era: And this whole romantic vibe? It's happening in the ballet world as well, dear reader. Imagine graceful movements, the flowing tutus, and the beautiful melodies; these dancers are enchanting everyone with the power of artistic expression and emotional storytelling through dance. They make us feel everything, from joyous anticipation to tragic heartache.

Let's talk fashion, shall we? You know how I love tutus, and in 1845, oh my, it’s just… pure fashion bliss!

• The Ballet Fashion Spotlight: Think frills, flounces, and layers! This is the age of romantische ballerinas. We're talking billowing tulle skirts, sheer silk, soft shades of pink, white, and lilac – everything light, flowing, and airy. The ladies even embraced long, loose curls to match the effortless grace of the dancers.

I confess, this era is so inspirational to my own ballet look! Even now, you see these Victorian influences, like the beautiful swaths of tulle in some contemporary ballerinas' costumes.
* The Rise of the Pointe Shoe: I simply adore how fashion, or should I say footwear, plays such a crucial role in ballet. And oh, how pointe shoes were starting to emerge as a staple for ballet dancers! It's a testament to the power of strength and artistic dedication. * Off the Stage & Into the Street: Speaking of fashion, ballet looks weren’t only for the theatre. Remember my love for street performances? This era saw elegant ballet costumes inspiring even everyday fashion! Imagine – long, flowing skirts and silk ribbons for our fashionable ladies.

This whirlwind of 1845 has been truly enchanting! From breathtaking ballet productions to beautiful costumes, it’s clear to see the impact of ballet throughout society, both on the stage and beyond. I encourage you, dear reader, to delve deeper into the stories of these groundbreaking dancers, marvel at the captivating choreographies, and be mesmerized by the elegant costumes of the era! Remember, you, too, can join in the celebration by adding a dash of ballet flair to your everyday wardrobe, a hint of pink here, a touch of tulle there! Let's inspire the world, one pink tutu at a time!

Until next time, my darling ballet aficionados, keep twirling!

Emma xo