Hello, darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, ready to whisk you away on another thrilling adventure through the captivating world of ballet history.
This month, I'm travelling all the way back to January 1st, 1666! Magic Meg, my pink sparkling Shire horse with golden hooves, was a little anxious about the long journey, but she managed to get us there in record time! Imagine – a crisp, frosty morning, the air filled with the sound of church bells, and me, in my favourite pink tulle tutu, ready to explore the wonders of the past.
It's a little difficult to imagine, isn't it? Ballet as we know it hadn't yet been born! But this was the era of King Louis XIV, the Sun King himself, the man who would pave the way for ballet's glittering rise!
As I walked through the cobbled streets of Paris, I couldn't help but marvel at the bustling activity around me. Everyone seemed to be dressed in their finest attire. I had packed a whole wardrobe of ballet-inspired garments, from ruffled gowns to velvet jackets, just to blend in and enjoy the fashion scene!
The French court was overflowing with elegant dances and festivities. While ballet hadn't quite reached the heights of grace and technique we see today, these royal dances were full of energy, flair, and a sense of grandeur that is captivating to witness. It was fascinating to see the roots of what we recognise as ballet – the courtly dances, the ornate costumes, the focus on storytelling and theatricality.
There were, however, none of the elegant tutus, pointed shoes, or classical music we see today! This period saw costumes heavily adorned with jewels, feathers, and brocade. A far cry from our light and fluid dancewear, it's amazing how our passion for embellishment transcends time, albeit in slightly different ways!
On the day I arrived, a performance was held in honour of the king. It wasn't the ballet we know and love, but the grandeur was simply spectacular! Dancers, often men, would perform elaborate movements, incorporating elements of sword-fighting, acrobatics, and theatrical elements, accompanied by music and singing. You can see the building blocks of our ballet form in their movements and gestures – so inspiring!
While there were no grand ballerinas taking centre stage, it was a captivating performance nonetheless! I was amazed at the athleticism, the passion, and the commitment to the art form. You see, the passion for dance has always been a constant through time.
During my time in Paris, I explored every corner of the city, searching for clues and inspiration about this critical turning point in dance history. I found myself mesmerised by the Parisian salons where people gathered to discuss art and literature. It was a time of intellectual ferment, and dance was no exception. It was exciting to think that amidst these gatherings, the seeds of the ballets we enjoy today were being planted.
To make the most of my travels, I bought myself a new pink velvet waistcoat to blend in. (Magic Meg had to do a little heavy lifting with the extra shopping.) I bought it at a delightful little shop tucked away in a side street and I think it perfectly reflects the elegant but slightly decadent atmosphere of the era.
But you know me, always looking for those little details. Imagine my excitement when I found a fascinating, if slightly dilapidated, leather-bound journal, hidden amongst some dusty books in a street vendor's cart!
It contained the memoirs of a court dancer, detailing his training, costumes, and the challenges he faced. His writings about the dances he learned and performed were like a window into the past. He describes intricate steps and formations with meticulous detail – I imagine myself learning from him, my toes working tirelessly through all the complex movements! It's these little pieces of history, like finding this journal, that truly give meaning to my time travels. I added this exciting find to my ballet rucksack! It will be perfect for my blog and hopefully provide some exciting insights into the era for my readers.
To commemorate my visit, I bought a beautiful vintage book of costume illustrations for the royal court. You see, fashion is an integral part of ballet history, isn't it? I was especially drawn to the exquisite embroideries and the dramatic feather decorations – it really reminds me how closely connected fashion and dance are, even back then!
But now, as the day starts to fade and the first stars peek through the Parisian twilight, I have to return to the present. It's a bittersweet feeling – leaving this enchanting time, with its intricate courtly dances and glimpses into ballet’s grand future, behind. I’m already dreaming of my next trip, where new adventures await.
Oh, and a reminder, darlings! I love seeing you all sporting pink tutus! Let's keep the pink tutu revolution going! I have a brand-new pink feather boa coming for my next performance. Can’t wait for you to see it!
Until next month, keep twirling and never forget that the history of dance is full of beautiful and inspiring stories waiting to be discovered!
Love,
Emma
[Don’t forget to check out Emma’s adventures and beautiful tutu photos at www.pink-tutu.com!]
