Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina! Welcome back to another edition of my Pink Tutu Time Travels blog. I'm so excited to whisk you all away on another fantastical journey through the wonderful world of ballet. This month, Magic Meg and I are galloping back to the 3rd of March 1666, and I must tell you, it was an absolutely fascinating time to be in the world of dance.
Just picture this: a crisp March day, the air abuzz with the promise of spring, and the city of London teeming with life. And me? I’m prancing around in my bright pink tutu, drawing curious stares and hushed whispers! My bag, adorned with delicate ballet slippers and vintage dance cards, feels positively brimming with stories waiting to be told.
I must admit, back in 1666, ballet wasn’t quite the graceful spectacle we know today. It was a more theatrical, playful, and slightly bawdy form of entertainment. Think music, singing, dancing, elaborate costumes, and even acrobatics – all rolled into one joyous extravaganza! But don’t get me wrong, the energy was electric! People were enthralled! The performances weren't confined to theatres – they happened everywhere, in courtyards, at grand balls, and even in the royal court.
On this particular day in March 1666, the grand spectacle of the ballet was in full swing. There was a performance at the King's Theatre in London, a marvel of theatrical architecture built just five years earlier, showcasing a work titled ‘The Siege of Rhodes’ by John Dryden. The audience, adorned in their finery and sparkling with anticipation, were ready for an incredible show – the entire piece told entirely in dance and dialogue! I must say, this type of ballet certainly had me hooked. It was captivating, emotional, and told a story without words! I was completely absorbed in the narrative.
Oh, and speaking of fashion, dear readers! The 17th-century court was all about flamboyance. Lace, velvet, and vibrant colours dominated the scene, along with copious amounts of powdered wigs and elaborate accessories. Now, imagine the delight I had pulling out my own collection of sparkly accessories for a bit of vintage inspiration! Those early dancers definitely weren't shy when it came to their sartorial choices. Think feathers, elaborate headwear, and, of course, lots of embellishments!
My trusty Magic Meg (she has a wonderful love for all things sparkly, I swear!), of course, couldn't resist the temptation to trot into the King's Theatre. She caused quite a stir, that she did, with her majestic pink shimmering coat and gleaming golden hooves. Luckily, she had excellent manners – you won’t believe how gently she glided through the crowds, leaving behind a trail of sparkling magic.
While I wasn’t able to join the performance myself, it was such a delight to immerse myself in the vibrant scene. From the excitement of the theatregoers to the grandeur of the theatre itself, it truly transported me to another world! The energy and passion radiating from every performer was palpable.
Now, tell me, darlings! Are you intrigued by this colourful period? Would you like to learn more about 17th-century dance and its remarkable journey? If so, be sure to leave a comment below – let me know what you'd like to discover next. And don't forget to subscribe to my website, www.pink-tutu.com, for all the latest time travel updates!
But until next month, my dears, remember: life is a stage, and everyone looks incredible in a pink tutu! Until then, dance on!
XOXO, Emma 💕🦄
