Hello my lovely dancers! 🩰
Emma here, back from a whirl through the elegant world of 1873! It's been an absolute delight exploring the world of ballet in this fascinating year, and I've got so much to share! Let me grab my trusty pink tutu and let's journey back in time...
A Grand Premiere for The Sleeping Beauty!
This year saw a truly iconic ballet premiere - The Sleeping Beauty by the magnificent Tchaikovsky, danced by the talented Mariinsky Ballet in Saint Petersburg! Imagine the thrill of witnessing that for the very first time! The music is a masterpiece - so powerful and graceful, and I can just imagine how beautiful the costumes must have been! Now, that's a show I'd travel back in time to see again and again.
From Royal Courts to Grand Opera Houses
While in Russia, The Sleeping Beauty graced the grand stages of the Imperial Theatres, we can't forget the dazzling dancers who captivated audiences at the Opéra Garnier in Paris. This year, they presented their take on the iconic La Sylphide by Jean Coralli and Adolphe Nourrit. Can you imagine those billowing tulle tutus and the effortless grace of the ballerinas on stage? A true visual delight, wouldn't you agree?
A Parisian Waltz of Fashion!
Speaking of visual delights, the world of fashion in 1873 was certainly bursting with glamour! Imagine delicate silk gowns and billowing layers of tulle – like a delicate dance of fabrics! For me, it’s all about the crinoline. This magical structure adds a "full-skirt" shape to our dresses, adding movement and grace as we sashay down the street. Think about how amazing these tutus would be! I can picture myself waltzing through a Parisienne salon, the swish of the crinoline adding drama to every move. Just divine!
Street Fashion and Tutus: It’s all about the layers!
Even though the big theatres were my priority, the street was just as exciting for fashion! Long flowing gowns, big hair and lots of frills were a must, and the layers of fabric definitely added a touch of ballet-esque movement. We might not be wearing tutus out and about (although I do sometimes! It's all about spreading the tutu love!), but the sense of movement and flow echoes the essence of dance itself.
Bringing Ballet to the Streets!
Back in my own time, the fun is in bringing a little bit of the theatre onto the street! Think ballet and bus stops! My friends and I are always practicing our routines in the streets, because after all, dancing shouldn't just be confined to stages! We've found a real love for adding ballet steps and flourishes to our everyday routines! You can tell we're really feeling it by our expressions - the smile just radiates outwards! Our little dance performances on the streets are our own way to keep the passion alive, bringing ballet into our world in the most fabulous way. It’s always so uplifting to see people smile while they watch!
Looking for that Perfect Pink Tutu!
Now, my lovelies, I have to ask, where are all those tutus?! We’re not afraid of a splash of color, so bring on the pink! Don't be afraid to wear it anywhere - from the office to the streets! Just let it all hang loose, ladies! And remember, my mission in life is to get every woman twirling in a pink tutu. Just imagine, all of Derbyshire wearing them - that’s an amazing vision. So grab your tutu, embrace your inner ballerina, and let's get this world dancing!
Until next time, dance on! 🩰
Emma
