Hello darlings! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu-clad time traveller, back with another instalment of my adventures through ballet history! This month, we're jetting back to the glorious 7th of July, 1672, for a little glimpse into a world where ballet was just beginning to take its first tentative steps outside the courts and onto the stage.
Buckle up, loves, because this journey promises to be a real pipsqueak! As usual, my trusty steed, Magic Meg, my shimmering pink shire horse with golden hooves and a mane as white as freshly fallen snow, is champing at the bit to get going! My trusty leather rucksack is ready to be filled with new treasures, ready for you to admire back in my humble abode in Derbyshire.
Before we take off, a little peek at my ensemble for this month's time-hop: A stunning blush-pink tutu with cascading layers of tulle, accented with pearl-encrusted straps. My shoes, naturally, are the most delicate ballet slippers, shimmering in ivory silk and finished with a single, glittering pearl. And for a touch of whimsy, I've adorned my hair with a delicate crown of blush pink roses, mirroring the gentle colour of my tulle skirt. It’s the perfect look for travelling through time – a touch of romantic elegance with just a dash of pixie dust, wouldn't you say?
Now, where were we? Oh yes! 1672! This date marks a really special moment in the world of ballet. It’s the year that King Louis XIV's royal academy of dance, the Académie Royale de Danse, opened its doors in Paris. Think of it as the birth of ballet in its modern form! I’m absolutely dying to see the Parisian dance scene in action at this time – can you imagine the intricate steps, the flowing costumes, the exquisite movements? It’s just going to be utterly delightful!
And speaking of costumes, what could be better than the shimmering splendour of Baroque court dress? Imagine brocaded silks, opulent lace, shimmering satin, and yards upon yards of fabric swirling and flowing with each elegant step. It's all a feast for the eyes, just like my little blog here!
But what did this period have on offer for a dedicated ballet enthusiast? I’m sure you’ll be delighted to hear that this particular day has a wonderfully Parisian treat waiting for us! I've been doing a little research, you see, and found out that there's a ballet playing at the Théâtre du Palais-Royal. It's called "Les Amours de Cassandre". Ooh la la, so romantic! It’s by the one and only, Jean-Baptiste Lully! Imagine that, darlings! The King’s own composer bringing the magical world of ballet to the stage, a truly special occasion for lovers of this beautiful art form. I simply have to see it! And maybe snag a souvenir from the programme…for you of course, dearies!
The French ballet in 1672 had a definite air of "Royalty". The dance was incredibly precise, every movement dictated by etiquette and strict court rules. I wonder if these ballet-loving folks in 1672 can see what we are all heading toward – the freedom of ballet? I believe ballet is a form of artistic expression that is a magical experience! The graceful movements, the music that sets our hearts soaring… what other form of art can truly move you as ballet does? It speaks directly to the soul!
My time machine’s waiting, dearies! It’s time for us to journey through time, just Magic Meg and me. You know I'll be back next month with another instalment of our exciting pink-tutu adventure. And don’t forget, to stay up-to-date with all the goings on, follow me on www.pink-tutu.com ! Until next time!
P.S. While you’re at it, take a peek in the shop, for some lovely ballet fashion treasures for you to make your world more pink !
