Hey darlings! It's Emma, your Pink Tutu-loving time-traveler, back from another whirlwind trip to the past! This month, I've ventured all the way to the glorious, vibrant city of Paris, circa 1673. Just picture it ā cobblestone streets, a touch of medieval charm, and a palpable air of artistic change. I arrived in style, of course, on Magic Meg, my magnificent pink-sparkling Shire horse. The French love of horses was almost tangible, especially in that time!
My Parisian Promenade
Now, it's 7th July 1673 and everyone knows what this means for any ballet loverā¦ Itās the anniversary of the opening night of one of the worldās oldest, continuous professional ballet companies - the Paris OpĆ©ra Ballet. Thatās right! It was 350 years ago, to the day, that the doors first opened at the Palais Royal on this date. You can imagine, I had to pop in, grab a seat on a plush velvet cushion, and watch as these groundbreaking pioneers danced their hearts out. Their ballet costumes? Well, a world away from the exquisite tutus we wear today ā think corsets, more elaborate embellishment and less leg showing, but with an incredible elegance and poise, and even the hint of early modern ballet. Itās the small steps that led us to the magnificent dance performances we are fortunate enough to see now!
From Palace to Playground: The Birth of "La Fontange"
One of the fascinating aspects of Paris in the 17th century was the emphasis on lavish dress and elaborate hairstyles, the era of the āFontageā! I mean, itās hard not to admire their artistic spirit, and honestly, it would make the perfect tutu inspiration ā even if it was just for one night. A true, fashionista-tutu dream ā they say it was Marie de Rohan, mistress of the king, who pioneered this new hairstyle in the Palace of Versaillesā¦ Well, in ballet history we often get our fashion inspiration from unexpected places - just wait until you hear the amazing stories behind the tutu of tomorrow!
Catching up with King Louis the Fourteenth
And talking of the king, did you know Louis the Fourteenth loved ballet, too? I was delighted to hear this on my trip. It wasn't a new development by any stretch! While he was never a professional ballerina himself (imagine a powdered wig on a tutu - oh, darling!), his passionate involvement in dance and court ballets truly revolutionized the ballet scene. I loved his passion and the legacy he left behind for ballet! Of course, the grand Royal Ballet in Paris that had its birthday on this date would not be around today without his strong support, and the amazing vision he shared.
Adding Parisian Treasures to My Ballet Backpack
My visit to the 17th-century Paris OpĆ©ra has been so enlightening ā what a remarkable and inspiring trip! I spent hours in the magnificent archives of this world famous dance company. It was so exciting to dig into those leather-bound volumes full of detailed costume designs, sketch books filled with intricate choreography diagrams and personal diaries written in flowing cursive script. Of course, my rucksack is jam-packed with these exquisite treasures now, but they will all soon be shared with you all!
Ballet Performances from Derbyshire to Paris
Speaking of travels, I will be returning to England to celebrate a performance at our local Royal Ballet on 30th July, a chance for me to experience the magnificence of Ballet at its very best, back here in Derbyshire. As ever, I am going to put on my very best Pink Tutu, just like every single one of you out there in the wonderful pink Tutu loving community. Remember ladies, I truly believe we should ALL rock a Pink Tutu for at least one day a week. Who else will join me?
Until next time my little dancers - do go and experience the magic of Ballet for yourselves, whatever part of the world you happen to live!
Your Pink Tutu loving, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
