Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where we explore the enchanting world of ballet through the lens of time. This month, we're waltzing our way to 3rd March 1674, with a pit stop at the illustrious court of Louis XIV, the Sun King himself!
As you know, my love for all things pink knows no bounds. My latest obsession? A gloriously flamboyant, pink silk tutu, delicately hand-stitched with pearls. This delicate cloud of pink tulle is begging for a royal promenade, don't you think? And where better to strut my stuff than at the French court, a dazzling beacon of dance and elegance?
Magic Meg, my faithful pink-sparkling steed with golden hooves and a flowing white mane, is eager for adventure, so we set off from my cozy Derbyshire cottage, my trusty leather rucksack strapped to my back, ready to collect the ballet stories of the era. This is what I love about my time travels, each historical ballet snippet feels like a little treasure tucked away in my bag!
Now, let's dive into 3rd March 1674. The year Louis XIV founded the Académie Royale de Danse in Paris, an exciting time for the burgeoning art of ballet! I just love the idea of being part of that era, witnessing the birth of a formalized art form. The royal ballet was thriving with incredible dancers like Beauchamp and La Fontaine, each one with a unique grace and skill that we still see in ballets today. I'm sure their elegant movements were an absolute treat to behold!
I'm already picturing myself whispering along with the dancers in their elegant costumes, as the music of Lully fills the air with its Baroque charm. I'll be glancing with adoration at the elaborate wigs, the lavish dresses, and the incredible courtly splendour that is so intricately linked with ballet during this era.
Speaking of ballet performances, a peek into my little time travel guide tells me that Louis XIV himself was quite a star of the dance world. He was famous for his performances as Apollo, a god associated with music, dance, and beauty, what an absolutely iconic ballet hero! It makes me wonder, could Louis XIV have ever imagined his passion for ballet would lay the foundation for the world-renowned ballets of today?
It's so important to understand the foundations upon which our beloved art form is built. We're dancing on the shoulders of giants, wouldn't you say? It's thrilling to realize that the stories we dance today have their roots in this exciting time. A nod of thanks to the incredible performers, composers, and innovators who have graced the stage before us, for without their passion and talent, our ballet journey wouldn't be quite so extraordinary.
It is fascinating to me how even the very foundations of ballet had such a unique, courtly flair. The world of ballet in the 17th century was an incredibly intricate, delicate dance within the framework of society.
Now, back to my gorgeous pink tutu! I imagine myself twirling in its voluminous folds at the court of the Sun King, surrounded by courtiers adorned with pearls and shimmering fabrics. It is a scene straight out of a ballet fantasy. I'm not just imagining it, darlings, I’m living it!
I'm absolutely obsessed with ballet fashion throughout history, from the courtly silks of the 17th century to the beautiful romanticism of the tutus of the 19th century. Each period has its own elegance, but it's that historical connection to a past performance, a past artist, that truly sets each piece of fashion apart for me.
Now, a little insider tip! I absolutely recommend visiting The National Gallery in London if you can. There are some truly breathtaking pieces that give you a fantastic look at the extravagance of French courtly fashion during the reign of Louis XIV! And the art makes me dream of even more exciting time travels in tutus! I will share some of my favourites from The National Gallery, as always, on my Instagram, @pinktututimetraveller.
So darlings, I truly hope this little glimpse into ballet's 17th-century past has been enchanting. Until next time, remember, every pink tutu worn with passion helps make the world a more elegant and joyful place! Now, off to shop for a beautiful new, pink tutu, fit for the grandest of ballrooms. Au revoir!
Emma x
P.S Don't forget to check out my latest ballet performance this Saturday at The Royal Opera House. I'll be performing as Sugar Plum Fairy in a beautiful adaptation of The Nutcracker! Come see me in my sparkling pink tutu, and tell me what your favourite pink tutu look is in the comments below! I am always eager for more pink!
