Hello darlings! Emma here, and let me tell you, I'm simply positively giddy about this post! 1866! Can you imagine?! So many glorious costumes, exquisite performances, and a peek into the past that's positively inspiring. Now, settle in with your favourite pink lemonade, darlings, and let's take a trip down memory lane together.
Firstly, I just had to pop over to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, oh, the iconic stage, such beautiful history! I spent hours just gazing at the intricate gold detail. This is where our very own Charles Dickens watched ballets back in the day! Can you believe it, my lovelies? A real-life Victorian ballet goer! Fancy! They really didn't know what they were missing, though. Imagine watching 'Le Lac des Cygnes' in a luscious pink tutu with the latest ruffles - talk about making an entrance, darlings!
A Dashing Display of Dance and Fashion
What is ballet like back then, you ask? Well, darlings, we're not talking sleek, contemporary movements here! It's all about those beautiful, expressive poses and delicate, controlled movements. This year, a grand production of Giselle stole the show. Now, this wasn't your average pointe work, darlings, imagine soft, swirling steps with intricate tutus of white and pink - pure enchantment, really! It must have been captivating to watch. And of course, the fashion! You're going to absolutely love this, darlings! Imagine corsets so tight, you could barely breathe, and gowns that are all tulle, silk, and delicate lace. Swoon! Oh, how I yearn for those days! I swear, I could create a whole collection just inspired by that period - the potential is endless, truly endless!
Speaking of captivating costumes, let's delve into a bit of history! Did you know that back in the day, dancers were practically adorned with jewels?! Oh, darling, they looked like walking pieces of art! And the tutus, sigh, they were full and voluminous, with layers and layers of silk and satin! The pink ones, in particular, were simply stunning! I have visions of pastel shades of blush pink with ribbons and feathers - truly dreamy! Now, this makes me think, why aren't we all wearing tutus every day? Why are these magical creations limited to stage and dance? My aim in life, my dear readers, is to encourage the world to adopt this most fabulous and feminine garment! It's time to release our inner ballerina and celebrate our love for all things pink!
A World of Entertainment
1866 wasn't just about Giselle, darling. This year saw Cinderella graced the stage too! Just imagine, a sparkling coach made of glass, a shimmering pumpkin carriage - now, that's fairytale fashion at its finest! Honestly, I would kill for that costume - think of the photo opportunities! This, of course, wouldn't be the end of it. Theatres, big and small, all over the world, are positively bursting with stories in dance! We've got Le Lac des Cygnes in Paris, oh, darling, so exquisite!
Let's Not Forget the Boys
Now, I know you're all thinking, "Emma, don't you just adore all the female ballerina fashion?". Of course I do, darling, but ballet wouldn't be what it is without the hommes. While the focus of fashion back in 1866 is undeniably feminine, it's not without those stylish men dancing the most fabulous parts. They've got tights and these elegant jumpsuits - it’s enough to make your heart flutter, honestly. But the truth is, hommes didn't need extravagant attire to bring ballet to life! Strong stances, masterful technique and precise leaps; now those are something truly captivating. Just picture, a dark stage, spotlit only on their athletic form, as their perfectly honed bodies move in fluid, breathtaking grace - that’s the magic of dance.
Travel Tips from the Past
Speaking of those enchanting leaps, you might be thinking, "Emma, how do you manage to go back in time?". Well, it's all about passion, darling! A dancer's life is a dance between passion and practice, you know? I do street performances in Derbyshire, just think of those colourful tutus amongst those cobblestone streets - they are definitely a sight! Then, with a generous portion of faith and a sprinkle of pink glitter, poof! I'm whisked away through time to discover the treasures of a bygone era!
I’ve really just scratched the surface of what’s going on in 1866, but this is a journey we can take together. Stay tuned, darlings, because this is only the beginning. So next time you find yourself reaching for your trusty pink tutu, think of this journey through time! Remember to keep on dreaming, dancing and shining! Remember, life is about spreading those pink tutu vibes!
With Love and Bows, Emma xx
