#BalletHistory during 1680 11 November

Hello my darling tutu-lovers! Emma here, ready to whisk you back in time on a whirlwind ballet journey! This month, Magic Meg and I are galloping back to the 11th of November 1680, where the cobbled streets and bustling marketplaces of Europe are a far cry from the sleek, modern world we know.

Before we dive into this thrilling era, let’s have a quick look at my blog – www.pink-tutu.com. My last post, which you can find nestled among my latest ballet shoe finds, delved into the delightful world of French court ballet during the 17th century. Today we’re taking a step back – in both time and location! – to uncover the roots of ballet and its wider world.

Now, picture this: crisp autumn air, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and a city bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. Today is the 11th November, and I've just arrived in Vienna. The city, famed for its beautiful architecture, thrives on the echoes of music and laughter. I'm here to uncover the ballet whispers of this historical date – ready to paint the story with the blush of my pink tutu, wouldn’t you know it?

We're just on the cusp of the 18th century, my darlings, and ballet is transforming. We're no longer witnessing the opulent spectacle of French court ballet. Instead, the spotlight is moving toward ballet d'action - narrative ballets focusing on the power of storytelling. Think sweeping narratives and passionate performances. This era was a thrilling time for ballet's artistic journey. Think elegant moves and an emerging understanding of expressive power.

While the grand balls of Louis XIV's era were just fading into memory, a new chapter in the history of ballet was taking shape. And it wouldn't be long until ballerinas like the iconic Marie Camargo began to reshape the very essence of what a dancer embodied – moving beyond mere court spectacle to powerful narratives through their bodies.

Now, back to our tale. This very day in Vienna, the city's dance lovers were engrossed in the grand Ballet Theatre's upcoming production of "L' Amour Vengé," by Francesco Cavalli. It was a period piece with a tale as old as time, with jealousy, betrayal, and the triumph of love – the classic elements that fuel timeless drama. It was performed on a sprawling stage in the imperial theatre, lavishly adorned with golden embellishments.

Imagine my joy at discovering, amongst my newly-sourced ballet memorabilia, an original handbill advertising the production! Its beautifully engraved lettering proclaimed the day's performances, inviting those fortunate enough to afford tickets to "Experience a Masterpiece." A testament to the artistry of a time long gone!

My tutu, this time, is a rich, coral-toned creation, edged with lace. It is as though it’s been plucked from a painter’s palette, a splash of vibrant colour against the backdrop of Vienna's historical grandeur. I even managed to find, nestled amongst my new trinkets in my trusty leather rucksack, a dainty antique earring featuring a miniature ballet slipper in pearl and gold. Now, that's what I call a touch of ballet history!

Today, in this historical setting, my outfit, an ode to ballet's elegant legacy, perfectly complements the delicate pastel shades of the vintage fabric used in my new ballerina journal, purchased at a bustling marketplace on my way here. My dear Magic Meg, she has become the envy of every horse in the town, I'm sure. The dappled sunlight makes her gleaming coat shine like spun pink gold – a perfectly fashionable contrast to my rich pink ensemble.

But it wasn’t all high theatre. As we strolled down the quaint streets, we encountered impromptu street performances by street dancers who drew crowds. They may not have donned grand tutus or practiced elaborate footwork, but their joy in moving with the rhythms of the city resonated.

It made me realize that the very essence of dance, of joy, expression, and connection, endures. A simple shuffle and flick of the wrist can move an audience – it was a true reminder of the power of dance.

In closing, this adventure to Vienna in 1680 – a pivotal period in ballet history, where innovation blossomed – proved, once again, the extraordinary bond between dance, its history, and fashion. We’re still just at the dawn of the ‘golden age’ of ballet in Vienna, and, with the exciting prospect of 18th-century artistry on the horizon, I can’t wait to delve into the upcoming years with you!

My darlings, make sure to grab a cup of tea or coffee and get comfy. Our next time travel adventure is already brewing. Stay tuned for my blog, where you’ll find all the latest on ballet trends and behind-the-scenes stories from my time travel adventures.

Now, off I go, my loves, to the next chapter, the next leap forward in time! Until next time, stay twirling!

Emma

* www.pink-tutu.com*

(Psst – Don't forget to tell me about your favourite ballet outfits in the comments! I love hearing from you!)

Remember to wear a pink tutu – it's always in style.