Hey darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink-loving, tutu-wearing ballerina, and welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels! It's time for another adventure through the magical world of ballet history, and this month, we're twirling our way back to September 1672. Buckle up, because we're about to uncover some delightful secrets of the ballet world from almost four centuries ago!
This time, I'm whisking you away on my trusty steed, Magic Meg, a magnificent pink sparkly Shire horse with golden hooves and a flowing white mane and tail. Just picturing her prancing through the cobblestone streets of Paris or London gets me giddy with excitement! She's a little camera shy, but trust me, you'll see her sparkling mane featured in a future post. ✨
I'm particularly excited about this month's journey because, dear readers, it's all about ballet fashion! And let me tell you, 1672 was a time of truly fabulous garments, from richly embroidered bodices to perfectly tailored trousers. This was also the year of a magnificent event - the very first official ballet company! Now that's something to celebrate! 🥂
Before we embark on this time travel, let me tell you a bit about what I'm carrying in my leather rucksack. You know, a girl's gotta be prepared for anything! This month, I've got a vintage sewing kit, my favourite shade of pink silk ribbon, and a few blank scrolls. I just know I'll be scooping up some divine dance notes and designs!
Now, let's delve into the vibrant world of ballet in September 1672! It's so thrilling to picture the world as it was almost 400 years ago - and not a single tutu in sight! Can you imagine?! Luckily, with a wave of my magic pink wand (well, more like a quick tap on Magic Meg's bridle), we can transport ourselves to any era we desire. It's truly a ballerina's dream!
Stepping onto the Parisian Stage
First stop: Paris, France! The heart of Europe and the place where ballet, as we know it today, really took its first steps. And wouldn't you know it, this particular September in 1672 marks the birth of a truly momentous event: the inauguration of the Royal Academy of Dance!
This magnificent company, the brainchild of King Louis XIV (the Sun King himself!), was a pivotal moment in dance history. We're talking a professional, well-organized ballet company right there in the heart of Paris, performing for royalty and the entire city! Imagine the excitement! I would have been right at the front of the theatre, swooning over every elegant move and admiring the dazzling costumes.
Now, the costumes of this period were a far cry from the airy, romantic tutus we're used to nowadays. Think richly embellished bodices, velvet trousers with elaborate embellishments, and luxurious lace – a complete spectacle! And let me tell you, these ballerinas had impressive skill, as much of their time was spent executing dramatic poses, elegant walking movements, and impressive acrobatics! Imagine balancing on one leg in the highest of heels! I give them so much credit for their strength and agility!
One of the most interesting pieces they showcased was a piece by Monsieur Lully, the court composer. Now, while he wasn't a dancer himself, this talented gentleman contributed much to ballet’s musical growth. Imagine having your music woven into every performance - that would be such a creative collaboration! I bet he was the life of the party with all his incredible music! 🎻🎶
This period, of course, saw some phenomenal ballerinas on the scene, such as the enchanting Mademoiselle de Lafontaine. Imagine! I can just picture her dancing through the royal palace with such graceful charm and elegance, stealing the show and enchanting every audience. Her technique is what fuelled the ballet world, showing a new elegance and refinement, taking things to another level.
Beyond the Parisian Streets: A Peek into Ballet's Journey
The story doesn't stop there, my dears. Back in my home country, England, there were hints of ballet brewing. Imagine little snippets of dance, hints of intricate movements and a little bit of storytelling - maybe it wasn't grand or formal, but it was a movement that was stirring and building! I'm already planning my next trip to London, and I have a feeling I'll be discovering some intriguing whispers of early English ballet.
I know it might seem strange that a love of all things pink would have me enthralled with historical dance, but there's a undeniable connection. Both ballet and pink exude a joyousness, a celebration of beauty and grace! Pink is the color of the ballet world! It evokes elegance and happiness, just like those graceful movements, twirling across the stage. And just imagine: seeing those graceful ballerinas of 1672 in shimmering pink tutus - oh, the pure enchantment!
Don't forget to visit the blog and website www.pink-tutu.com, and keep an eye out for my upcoming performance, because I'll be bringing all that historical grace and passion to the stage, showcasing all the inspiring beauty and grace I have been soaking up through time travel!
Stay twirling, darlings, and always remember - a little bit of pink goes a long way! 💖🩰
Until next time, Emma
