Hello darlings, and welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com! I'm your time-travelling ballet blogger, Emma, and I'm so excited to be taking you back to 10th October 1679, to the glittering court of Louis XIV, the Sun King!
This month, my pink, sparkly tutu, and I are in Versailles, the most magnificent palace in the world. Think grand staircases, gilded walls, and opulent gardens, all designed to show off the power and prestige of the French monarchy. It’s absolutely breathtaking, but it does make finding a good café for a spot of afternoon tea rather tricky!
The real reason for my journey back to the 17th century, however, is not the lavish palace, but the captivating world of courtly dance. Today, I’m heading to a special performance for the King himself. The most popular form of dance during this time is the “ballet de cour”, a highly formal style that incorporates elements of opera, drama, and ballet. These performances were much more than simple entertainment, they were meticulously choreographed spectacles showcasing the power and beauty of the French court.
As I trot down the grand avenues of Versailles, my faithful pink-shimmering steed, Magic Meg, carries my ballet satchel full of feather boas, pearl necklaces, and antique ballet shoes – it’s a little bit of my modern style injected into the past!
And speaking of fashion, darling, oh the costumes! They are nothing short of extraordinary! Ladies in billowing skirts, opulent lace sleeves, and high wigs adorn themselves with jewels and ribbons. Gentlemen are decked out in rich velvets, extravagant feathered hats, and knee-high boots. There’s so much inspiration for my own ballet outfits, especially that stunning use of rich colour and ornate embellishments.
The ballet performance begins with a dramatic opening featuring musicians and elaborate scenery, including towering castles and enchanting forests. The costumes are pure spectacle! There's so much flair in their movement – think elegant, flowing poses, graceful gestures, and precise steps. I am particularly enchanted by the dances of the "mascarades", which are lively, characterful pieces where the dancers wear elaborate masks to portray different characters and emotions. The passion, the drama, it’s all so enthralling!
I am especially struck by the dances dedicated to Louis XIV himself. He is, after all, the absolute monarch and a highly skilled dancer in his own right. You can see how the movements reflect the grandeur of the French court, celebrating the Sun King's strength, intelligence, and power.
After the performance, I join the throng of guests for a decadent supper of delicacies like pastries, exotic fruits, and exquisite wines. It's the perfect setting to gossip about the dance, observe the courtly etiquette, and take in all the fashion. There's an element of glamour here that’s simply irresistible.
I wish I could tell you all about the gossip that fills the palace halls - secret affairs, courtly intrigues, and whispers of power struggles. But that would be rather unladylike! However, I can tell you about the captivating costumes and elaborate decorations.
As the night progresses, the "contre-danse" takes over – think elegant couples gliding through the ballroom. The music is upbeat, the steps graceful, and the atmosphere playful and joyous.
After a delightful evening filled with music, dance, and delectable cuisine, Magic Meg and I take a moonlight ride across the French countryside. It's just the two of us, and the soft moonlight paints the fields in a silvery hue.
But all good things must come to an end. Soon, I will be saying goodbye to Versailles and my beloved France, heading back to my own time and Derbyshire. And you know what? I'll be bringing with me some amazing memories, a treasure trove of inspiration for my own dance routines, and maybe even a few secrets for my future blog posts.
After all, a pink tutu and a love for ballet know no boundaries. They cross continents and time periods, connecting us to a rich tapestry of history and artistry.
And remember, darlings, the world needs more pink tutus! So go forth, spread the pink love, and let the dance inspire your soul.
Until next time, happy twirling!
Emma x
