Hello, darlings! Welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com! It’s Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, back with another whirl through the ages! I’ve been collecting fascinating ballet tales and dazzling discoveries from the 17th century and I simply have to share them with you all.
This month, I’ve whisked myself back to 4th April 1678. Now, 1678 might seem ages ago, but it was a truly important year for dance! You might not know it, but back then, ballet was truly in its infancy. No graceful arabesques, no breathtaking grand jetés, just courtly dances and a sprinkle of theatricality! Still, a truly charming and utterly fascinating era, and it was a joy to be surrounded by such history!
Imagine my delight when I rode up on Magic Meg, my pink sparkling Shire horse with hooves like golden nuggets and a flowing mane like spun moonlight. Just seeing her step through the portal always gives me shivers – a touch of magic! This time, I landed right outside the Palais Royal in Paris, the cultural heart of the city. Just a stone's throw from the glittering salons and courtly chatter! I felt a buzz in the air, a sense of intrigue and festivity. It felt alive!
Dancing Kings and Queens:
Before we delve into the world of the ballet on that day, let's talk about those captivating figures - the royalty! I mean, just picture them! The King, the Sun King himself, Louis XIV, was known for his love of dance and the arts, he even performed in ballet shows! He'd glide around in his powdered wig, silk breeches, and elegant shoes, showcasing a dance of exquisite beauty, embodying the kingly persona! And then, picture the Queen! Marie Therese! A formidable figure in history! She was also a known ballet fan and supporter. I can just picture her gracefully enjoying the performances, shimmering in her intricate gowns. They'd often be joined by the aristocratic court – the ladies with their powdered curls and silks, the gentlemen with their elegant manners.
*A Royal Treat - "The Triumph of Love" *
Speaking of dancing royalty, 4th April, 1678 saw a rather remarkable production by the legendary Lully! Imagine, the grand spectacle, the beautiful music, and, the dance! Lully’s "The Triumph of Love" was performed in the lavish and luxurious Salle des Spectacles, in the Palais Royal itself! This was no ordinary spectacle; it was a spectacle of pure art! A ballet that held court! This masterpiece, which blended dance, music, drama and extravagant sets, showcased love's journey in a series of intricate dance steps and dramatic tableaux. The performance would have featured, no, no - not our graceful ballet, dear darlings, but an elegant form of court dance. Picture charming promenades, delightful poses, and playful figures – the beginnings of the ballet as we know it!
A World of Theatrical Wonders
The Parisian streets were filled with fascinating individuals. Performers with their elaborate costumes, merchants showcasing exquisite trinkets, and gossiping women, their voices rising above the lively clamour. I saw elegant carriages, with ladies in their grandest dresses, heading to the performance. The whole atmosphere radiated an air of refined and glamorous excitement, the kind you’d feel on a London night when a fabulous theatre show was opening! I made sure I mingled amongst them, observing, getting a glimpse into the lives of the people who breathed this culture and artistic flair! And, of course, I collected some stories to share! The stories of love, of drama, of theatre, all woven into the tapestry of ballet's origin. I've written them in my diary! The memories of Parisian dance, just for you!
Pink Tutu – Where I’m from – Derby & Ballet Magic
This ballet world wasn't quite my ballet world, I miss my lovely home in Derbyshire - it is a real joy to walk through its fields. I miss the elegant ballet studios and watching graceful ballet dancers move in their flowing tutus. My favorite time to visit my favourite local studio is at dusk when the lighting highlights the colours of my favourite tutu. After all, this pink tutu brings me here to see and discover the past, just for you, darlings! The ballet world was already brimming with exciting happenings – theatre shows with fantastical music and dances. Ballet's magic had a definite presence! That same magical presence is why I'm on my journey through time. To learn and experience every element of ballet's fascinating journey and I’d like everyone, in the future, to be wearing a pink tutu – what better way to highlight the grace and beauty of ballet!
Time to say Goodbye
As you all know, I cannot linger in a time period, as I need to capture all the magic for you! Sadly, it was time for me and Meg to embark on another ballet time-traveling escapade. The carriage ride back to the portal took me across charming Parisian streets, each bustling with life and character, where I caught glimpses of life as it was in those times, and some snippets for our blog! The air vibrated with an ancient melody, an enchanting lullaby that echoed the past!
Next month, I’ll be heading to another intriguing place! A different era! Can you guess where? Drop your suggestions below! Until next time, darlings! Keep on dancing, keep on shining, and stay twirling! And if you are feeling inspired, pop on your favourite pink tutu – go for it darlings – be fabulous and stylish! After all, there's a little bit of magic in everyone's heart, waiting to burst into life. Don't forget to keep an eye out for our exclusive time-traveling fashion inspiration and my ballet shopping adventures!
XOXO, Emma 💖
**(And if you are ready to start on your own pink tutu time travel adventure - click the link to see all my ballet stories at www.pink-tutu.com!) 🩰
