Hello my lovely ballet-loving bunnies! Welcome to another fabulous edition of Pink Tutu Time Travel! As always, I’m your pink-tutu-clad guide, Emma, ready to whisk you away on another delightful journey through the enchanting world of ballet history. This month, we’re jetting back to the shimmering streets of 17th century Paris – the year is 1666 and the date, 7th July. Oh, the stories we’ll uncover!
Grab your pinkest tutus, darling dears, and hop aboard Magic Meg, my trusty pink-sparkling shire horse with the most magnificent white mane and tail. Her golden hooves twinkle as she prances through time, leaving a trail of magic dust wherever we go.
We arrive in Paris, a bustling metropolis humming with excitement. The sun shines through the cobblestone streets, bathing everything in a warm, golden light. I spot some truly divine ladies with elaborate coiffures and powdered wigs. Ah, the chic of the French court! My senses are overloaded with the aromas of delicious pastries and rich perfumes, and the music drifting from the grand salons is truly breathtaking.
Our first stop is the Palais Royal – the heart of the city’s social scene and the birthplace of a thrilling innovation that changed the course of dance: the Académie Royale de Danse. Now, the French were no strangers to elegant courtly dances, but the establishment of this academy was a huge step for the development of what we know today as ballet! It brought together the finest dancers of the day, paving the way for technical excellence and structured choreography. It was the place to be seen – a meeting point for the aristocracy and those aspiring to grace the Parisian stage.
It's not long before I stumble upon a charming ballet performance happening in the Grand Salon. The exquisite gowns and flamboyant powdered wigs are pure delight! I even catch a glimpse of Monsieur Lully, the renowned composer, his music adding a thrilling dynamism to the ballet spectacle. These talented dancers move with such grace and control, despite their heavy, ornate costumes. Their elegant gestures and expressive footwork weave a tale of romance, passion and tragedy, and I'm mesmerized by their artistry.
My leather rucksack is filled to the brim with enchanting treasures I've gathered – elegant, handcrafted ballet shoes with dainty ribbons, a program adorned with intricate drawings, and a handwritten script of a charming, if slightly melodramatic, love story ballet. I'm particularly excited by a vintage costume design for a courtly lady dancing with her feathered fan, such an alluring piece!
As the performance concludes, I feel a strong connection with these pioneering dancers. Their passion and dedication shine through even after centuries, and their legacy continues to inspire the dazzling ballet we see today.
The evening concludes with a delicious soirée, and let me tell you, the French are masters of deliciousness! My rucksack bulges with pink-frosted macarons, melt-in-your-mouth pastries and delicate sugar-coated fruits - a true treat for my inner gourmand!
Of course, every trip needs a shopping stop, and let me tell you, Paris in the 17th century was a paradise for fashion lovers. I fell in love with an elegant, ivory silk shawl, adorned with delicate embroidery. It's just the perfect accessory for my ballet outings, don’t you think? And my collection wouldn’t be complete without a selection of elegant gloves in luxurious colours like jade green and blush pink.
Finally, it’s time to say farewell to this captivating city. Magic Meg paws the cobblestones impatiently, eager for our next journey through time. And you can be sure I’ll be bringing you all along for the ride!
So until next time, my lovely ballet bunnies, keep twirling, keep dancing, and, of course, keep those pink tutus close at hand. Remember, the world of ballet is filled with magical stories just waiting to be discovered – so keep exploring!
XOXO
Emma, The Pink Tutu Time Traveller
(www.pink-tutu.com)
