Hello lovelies! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu-wearing ballerina with a penchant for time travel and a bottomless love for all things ballet. This month, I've hopped on Magic Meg's back (my trusty pink sparkle-tastic Shire with golden hooves – wouldn't it just melt your heart?) and zoomed back to December 12th, 1681!
Buckle up, darlings! We're about to delve into the exciting world of ballet history, circa 1681.
I swear, it's a fashion nightmare and a ballet dream rolled into one. Think extravagant, powdered wigs, layers upon layers of silk and brocade, and oh! The jewels. Oh, how they SPARKLE. Honestly, dear reader, I'd need a whole extra rucksack to haul away all the fabulous fashion from this era!
Let's chat about the ballet world, shall we? 1681 – still firmly planted in the reign of Louis XIV (the "Sun King", and the original pink tutu trendsetter, I think!), saw the Parisian stage bustling with opera-ballets. Opera ballets were essentially a hybrid of music, acting, and ballet – a total spectacle that I'm sure you can picture with your own vivid imagination!
Of course, back then, they weren't using the term "ballet" quite like we do today. It was more of a theatrical dance performance with a storyline woven throughout, often celebrating the monarch's prowess. This period saw the rise of some truly remarkable choreographers, such as Pierre Beauchamp, whose groundbreaking "Académie Royale de Danse" in Paris was all the rage. And, just a heads-up, darling, Beauchamp wasn't just any choreographer; he was the mastermind behind codifying five basic dance positions that even we ballet students today learn. That's pretty revolutionary, don't you think?
While I might be a bit envious of the grandeur and flamboyance of ballet in 1681, a little birdie whispered in my ear that they used some rather rudimentary "ballet shoes." Not quite the pointe shoes we have today – think more flat shoes, a bit like your dainty slippers, perhaps with a little heel. Now, I may adore a good pointe shoe for a grand finale, but darling, nothing beats a simple, comfy slipper! And trust me, your feet would be thanking you at the end of a long dance session in 1681!
But of course, darling, I wasn't just here for the historical knowledge. No, my dear reader, this month was all about the fashion. It's quite clear, 1681 was all about excess and flair. It was about pushing boundaries with intricate detail and rich colours. Just imagine a lavish stage, twinkling with jewel tones, glittering fabrics swirling, and the air alive with the music of the era.
In this period, it's about more than just the dancing – it's the showmanship. It's the spectacle. That, darlings, is where our tutu trendsetting really takes shape! If I could bring one single fashion item from this period back with me, it would be the “fichu,” a frilly neck scarf that adds an exquisite flourish to the extravagant outfits. Now, imagine a pink fichu against the dramatic stage backdrop – breathtaking, isn't it?
And let's not forget the beautiful ladies! I may have mentioned a few powdered wigs. I don't want to offend the hairspray giants of our time, but darling, think of it this way: it's a natural spray, entirely free of harsh chemicals! And what could be better than natural?
As always, dear reader, my favourite thing about time travel is the inspiration it brings! Whether it's a flash of French grandeur, a glimpse of American elegance, or a hint of Parisian romanticism, every era offers a unique treasure to be cherished. And when it comes to ballet, it’s about more than just the steps; it’s the passion, the beauty, and the storytelling that captures our hearts.
Do you want a pink tutu of your own, darlings? My favourite colour is pink! So let’s spread the love! My advice? Find a fabulous tutu, add a little pink – a pink ribbon, a pink flower – and be your own beautiful ballerina!
Remember, dear readers, you can always catch me in action on our blog www.pink-tutu.com Or if you'd like to discuss all things pink tutus and time travel (a conversation never disappoints, I assure you!), just pop a message in the comments! Until next time, darlings, keep dancing!
