Hello, my dearest ballet lovers! It's Emma here, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where we explore the captivating history of ballet. As usual, I'm sporting my trusty pink tutu (this month's a fluffy feather boa version, darling, for that extra touch of whimsy), and Magic Meg, my beautiful shire horse, is ready to gallop us back in time!
This month, we're stepping back to 10th October, 1673. Can you imagine, dear readers, the world without modern dance studios, sparkly leotards, or even pointe shoes?! Gasp Thankfully, we have my trusty rucksack to keep our minds occupied. Today, my lovely satchel is stuffed full of stories, drawings, and even a teeny, tiny, velvet-covered shoe that wouldn't even fit a baby's foot! Can you believe it? These little gems offer us a peek into a world of early ballet, and even then, it was an art form cherished and embraced by all!
Now, before we get swept away in the grandeur of ballet past, let's have a little chinwag about my life back in my own time, Derbyshire! I recently enjoyed a magnificent performance of "Swan Lake," you wouldn't believe the leaps! But even more than watching, my real passion is in being part of the ballet world, feeling the rhythm thrum through my heart as I pirouette across the dance floor. It's a real treat to inspire others with the beauty and joy of ballet. It's been so much fun spreading the "pink tutu love" and helping others find their own inner ballerina. Don't be shy! Grab a pink tutu, have a twirl and join the fun!
Now, back to our history, my dears. October 10th, 1673! It's such a magical day to embark on our journey. In Paris, King Louis XIV, the Sun King, is putting on a spectacular dance for the French court! Can you picture it? The finest silks, the grandest halls, and dancers like graceful butterflies gliding across the floor. He is known for being the king of fashion, so you know they're sporting the most exquisite outfits. The dance is a big deal in their little world and shows the power and elegance of the French court, a powerful symbol of culture and luxury.
In England, ballet wasn't quite so grand. This is before the Royal Ballet we know today, and while English court life may not be as lavish as the French, we are seeing a rise of entertainment in this new form. And with ballet on the rise comes, oh joy, the opportunity for more fantastic tutus, from the earliest versions made of flowing fabric to the beautiful creations seen today!
The world, however, isn't all tutus and bows, even back in 1673. We must also remember that the lives of people outside of the palaces and grand halls differed immensely. Some lived in poverty, without even shoes! Even those dancing in the grand courts faced a precarious life - ballet was a demanding profession, requiring endless training and immense dedication. I find it simply astounding to imagine these talented souls leaping and twirling across stages for the entertainment of others, knowing that it was their passion that fuelled their performances!
You see, darling, this is why I love time travel! It’s all about the stories. The moments we see etched in history remind us that despite the years that separate us, ballet remains a constant. A language understood across cultures and time! Ballet is the purest form of expression and it has brought people together from different countries, religions, and even different centuries, right here on pink-tutu.com!
So, if you've read this far, darling, you are already a member of the Pink Tutu Club!
For those who need a bit more encouragement to embrace your inner ballerina, I've added a few extra goodies this month. Check out this month's link, dear readers, to discover a delightful ballet class that even your cat would love to attend, along with some fabulous pink tutu tips! wink
And, if you find yourself craving a glimpse into a world where ballet isn't just a hobby, but a passion, you'll find that the link contains the best shops to find the most perfect tutus for your every fancy! From feather boas to silk ribbon, everything you could ever desire in a ballerina's wardrobe is just a click away!
Don't forget, you can join us for a chat in our comments below - I'd love to hear about your favourite ballet moments and perhaps some pink tutu inspiration!
See you next month for more exciting pink tutu adventures!
Until then, dance your way through life!
Your Pink Tutu Guide,
Emma
P.S. Remember to keep an eye out for the grand launch of my new ballet school in the Cotswolds, it's going to be "tutufully" amazing!
Link: https://www.pink-tutu.com/blog-post-154