Hey lovelies! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood ballerina and time traveller extraordinaire. It’s time for another whirlwind adventure, and this month, we're diving into the world of ballet back in 1662! Yes, you read that right - it’s August the 8th, 1662!
You know me, I always try to plan my time travels around something exciting, and what’s more exciting than a royal premiere? The very first ballet in the world, Le Ballet de la Royne, is making its debut tonight, right here in the French Court! I mean, seriously? Could you imagine the buzz in Paris right now?
Getting Ready: Fashion & Fantasy
As always, my trusty time travel steed, the fabulous Magic Meg, whisked me here in the blink of an eye. Magic Meg is a true queen herself, with her flowing white mane, a sparkly pink coat, and of course, golden hooves – because who can resist a touch of glitz? And let's not forget, no time travel outfit is complete without my signature pink tutu! It’s simply bursting with the joy and magic of ballet!
Right now, I’m settling in, taking it all in. I mean, just imagine, strolling through Paris back then in my bright pink tutu, causing a stir! People here are used to seeing lace and embroidery, but my fabulous pink tutu truly is a vision. (If you know any time travellers, I'd recommend a light-weight pink tulle - it’s so much easier to move in!)
I packed my trusty leather rucksack filled with goodies I collected from different time periods - think feather boas, ballet shoes, maybe even a little ballet jewellery (it never hurts to sparkle, darling!) But you can be sure I’ll add to the collection after this premiere! I can't wait to see the costume designs and get my hands on a programme for my time-travel souvenirs.
Royal Beginnings: Ballet at the Court
For those of you who don’t know, Le Ballet de la Royne is not just any ballet, my loves. It's the beginning of ballet history, the foundation upon which so much dance tradition is built. It's said that King Louis XIV of France himself commissioned the ballet. Can you even believe it? A royal king, in love with the grace and elegance of dance, supporting it all the way back in the 17th century? This gives me hope that my mission to have everyone wearing pink tutus could be possible - even in the distant past!
This premiere, you see, marks the start of ballet as a distinct art form. I’m so lucky to be here to witness this special moment, soaking up all the beauty, the music, the movement, and of course, the grand fashion of the time! I’m sure it will be a performance worthy of all the talk it’s caused!
Looking Ahead: What to Expect
I know you are all itching to know what the actual performance will be like! It's based on the mythical tales of the beautiful mythological figure Orpheus. Now, I won't give away too many details, as I don’t want to spoil it for you, but I have a feeling it's going to be something truly extraordinary! Think courtly elegance, vibrant colours, and music played on violins, harpsichords, and even lute – just imagine how lovely! I’m envisioning some absolutely magnificent tutus (pink or not!) worn by the court ladies as they take to the dance floor! I simply can't wait to watch how the royal ballet transforms the court and transforms dance itself!
Beyond the Premiere
After the premiere, I’ll be on the lookout for ballet studios in Paris – maybe there will be a school already where people are learning these elegant steps. And of course, I'll be looking for my favourite thing – fashion! Who knows, I may even find a little something for myself - a pretty sash or ribbon to add to my pink tutu. A time-traveling ballerina must be well-equipped!
Don't worry lovelies, I'll tell you all about the details of the Le Ballet de la Royne in next month's post – be sure to check back on www.pink-tutu.com.
Now, for a little Parisian inspiration, my loves. Have you discovered a new style that has taken your breath away recently? What's the most inspiring dance moment you’ve experienced?
As always, keep dancing and don’t forget to stay fabulously pink!
Lots of love, Emma
P.S. Want to join my time travels? Don't forget, you can help fund my adventures with my dazzling ballet performances. There's always room for more fun and pink tutus!