Hello my darling Tutu-licious readers! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink-tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina. October is finally here, and the air has a distinct chill to it - even in my time-travelling tutu. Autumn has arrived in Derbyshire, and I'm already dreaming of cosy evenings, pumpkin lattes, and the ballet. Speaking of which, October 10th marks a rather significant date in ballet history, and it's got me aching to hop onto Magic Meg, my trusty pink-sparkling Shire horse with golden hooves, and head back in time.
This time, we're whisking you back to 1680, to a world of powdered wigs, ruffled shirts, and, surprisingly, a ballet scene burgeoning with intrigue and elegance. That's right, folks! This is the year when the first ballet company dedicated solely to ballet performances, the Académie Royale de Musique, started their journey in Paris. Talk about a historical first!
And you know what, my dearest ballet bunnies? You're all welcome to tag along!
Imagine it: Stepping into 17th century Paris, my pink tutu standing out amidst the somber silks and lace. There, under the crystal chandeliers of the grand Opéra, the Académie is setting the stage alight with breathtaking movements and intricate storytelling. The very idea of a whole company solely devoted to the art of dance is quite extraordinary for the time, don't you think?
This company was more than just dancers, though! It was the heart and soul of the ballet world. The Académie was responsible for creating the very language of ballet, choreographing pieces with stunning grace and intricate technique. The ballet de cour, which evolved into a dramatic form, began its official metamorphosis in these very hallowed halls.
Honestly, I’m just itching to add a 1680’s French costume to my collection. Imagine it - delicate lace, the colour of faded roses, with swirling velvet and bows... dreamy sigh. Oh, to be able to take a peek into the Académie's first performance. Just picturing the gasps and applause from the audience, their eyes mesmerised by the beauty and skill on stage... ah, I’m just bursting with excitement!
And now for a touch of sartorial inspiration! Let's talk about 17th century Parisian fashion. If you thought our contemporary ballet tutus are dramatic, oh darling, you haven't seen anything yet!
The gentlemen of the time strutted in velvet and satin, with flamboyant feathers and wigs galore. Their shoes, too, were works of art, often crafted from exquisite silk, buckles adding a touch of elegance. The ladies were clad in beautiful gowns, laced up tight and adorned with pearls, silks, and of course feathers. Imagine the scene: a whirlwind of tutus (more akin to a long skirt in that era) and rustling silk, a symphony of colours and grandeur!
This era was the beginning of what we consider "classic" ballet today. We owe a huge thank you to the Académie for this monumental development! It's this very evolution that makes our tutu-filled lives possible, don't you think? Their dedication paved the way for countless ballets and ballerinas to follow.
You know I always pack my leather rucksack with interesting bits and bobs from each of my trips, right? This month, I'm collecting information about the Académie's choreographers, especially Louis Pécour. He was the choreographer of some of the earliest ballet operas, introducing an era of spectacle and dramatic storytelling. And imagine, some of these pieces were based on popular fairy tales! Think Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Puss in Boots - just as magical as a pink tutu and sparkly fairy wings, don't you think?
So, dear readers, this October 10th, raise your pink tutus and toast to the Académie Royale de Musique. We'll be raising ours high here at the www.pink-tutu.com HQ, with a glass of pink lemonade. Because this day is a celebration of artistry, history, and, most importantly, the everlasting magic of ballet!
Until next time, twirl on and shine bright!
Emma
P.S. Don't forget to share your love for ballet with me in the comments below! And for those of you looking for a fantastic way to support ballet and make your own dreams a reality, head over to my shop at the www.pink-tutu.com. I've got some absolutely dazzling pink tutus waiting for you, ready to make you twirl like a ballerina on cloud nine!
P.P.S. Here’s some more information I gathered on the 1680’s Parisian Ballet:
Musical Ballet: In the 1680s, ballet was mainly focused on dance, and the Académie’s performances were designed around that, showcasing dramatic performances that captivated audiences. They even used dramatic settings and costumes! Imagine the vibrant colors and dazzling detail of the gowns, inspired by classical stories, all choreographed to a thrilling soundtrack of music!
"Le Ballet de la Royalle"* : One of the very first performances put on by the Académie Royale de Musique was Le Ballet de la Royalle. Can you imagine what a privilege it would have been to witness such a performance?! This particular show is known to be filled with breathtaking choreography that combined elements of classical theatre, spectacle and traditional French dances. It sounds like the perfect recipe for an unforgettable ballet evening!
A time of innovation: This era was truly a time of immense change in the world of dance! Choreographers like Pécour were actively experimenting with techniques to develop their own style, introducing new steps, grander sets, and incredible costumes! It's almost like this was the birth of "modern" dance for the era. They even used elements of dance to reflect emotions and social issues. Talk about being ahead of their time!
