Hello, my darling dears! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels, where we twirl through time and explore the world of ballet in all its historical glory! This month, we're pirouetting back to the year 1679, a time when ballet was truly blossoming across the globe.
My magical, pink-sparkling Shire horse, Magic Meg, and I are getting ready to set off on our grand adventure. Her golden hooves and snow-white mane are shimmering in the sunshine as we pack my leather rucksack, filled with my trusty sketchpad and a love of all things ballet. It's going to be a fabulous journey!
A Blast from the Past!
It's May 5th, 1679, and the world is full of excitement. We're heading to the French capital, Paris, the heart of the ballet world. Back then, the Académie Royale de Danse (Royal Academy of Dance) was setting the stage for the most exquisite ballets, pushing the boundaries of dance and story telling.
Now, imagine a ballet featuring mythical creatures and enchanting landscapes - that's exactly what audiences were experiencing at the Opéra de Paris in the 1670s! These ballets, often known as "ballet de cour," or court ballets, were extravagant affairs, featuring courtly dance, intricate choreography, and gorgeous costumes. You can imagine how my little ballet heart was fluttering with anticipation!
The "First Lady" of Ballet
Did you know that back then, the "prima ballerina" of the day was not just a dancer but also a choreographer? The brilliant Madame Thérèse Dumanoir had her own "academy," where she trained up-and-coming ballerinas. She was truly a woman of great influence, both in the artistic and social world.
Of course, I couldn't resist venturing into Paris's bustling theatre district and getting my hands on the latest dance manuals and ballet scores! Just imagine the treasures hidden within their pages - revolutionary dance techniques, stories about renowned dancers, and an insight into the art form as it developed. It was truly a magical experience.
Beyond Paris!
Our journey took us far beyond the Parisian theatre, however. In Italy, the birth place of modern ballet, we discovered a rich tradition of dance, known as "Commedia dell'Arte". Theatrical and highly physical, Commedia dell'Arte brought comedy and storytelling to life through energetic characterisation and slapstick routines. What a sight to behold! It inspired me to bring a bit of "Commedia dell'Arte" to my next ballet class – watch out, girls!
Further east, we travelled to the Imperial Court in Vienna. Ballet performances here were a dazzling blend of French styles and local traditions. I just loved the vibrant costumes and the grand sets, all bathed in candlelight – what a way to make an entrance! My pink tutu was shining brighter than ever!
Across the Globe!
This trip has truly broadened my perspective on the international history of ballet. While Paris was the epicentre of the art form in the 17th century, dance was also flourishing in many corners of the world! Imagine the fascinating cultural influences that danced across continents – a truly exciting moment in ballet history.
Back in Time
As I sit down in my pink-tutu-covered studio back in Derbyshire, I can still feel the echoes of that incredible journey! The inspiration of seeing ballet in its early forms - the "ballet de cour", the lively Commedia dell'Arte, and the blend of styles in the Imperial Court, it just leaves you in awe!
I feel truly privileged to have shared this little snippet of history with you, my lovely readers! Don’t forget to subscribe to my website www.pink-tutu.com. I hope to inspire you to embrace your inner dancer, to keep your own creative spirit alive, and to love everything pink!
Remember, darling dears, ballet is a truly global and timeless art form. As we learn about its past, we can understand how it has shaped the dancing world we know and love today. Now go forth, twirl with joy, and always keep the love of ballet shining brightly in your heart!
Lots of love and twirls,
Emma xx
