Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet where ballet history, pink tutus, and the magic of time travel collide. Today's journey takes us to a sparkling, Parisian winter evening ā 12th December, 1683 to be precise! Buckle up, grab your most exquisite ballet shoes, and get ready to experience the enchanting world of French court ballet.
This month, I've been feeling incredibly drawn to the regal and opulent era of Louis XIV, so it seemed only fitting that Magic Meg (my absolutely stunning pink, sparkling Shire horse with golden hooves) and I took a trip to the French capital. As we galloped across the cobblestones towards the glittering palace, I couldnāt help but picture the ballet performances that graced the court and the extraordinary costuming. I was absolutely dying to get a glimpse!
My trusty leather rucksack, brimming with all sorts of fascinating ballet treasures, was slung comfortably on my back as I gazed in wonder at the architecture and the elegant figures promenading through the city. It truly was a spectacle.
Just before I reached the palace, a rather dashing gentleman in a dazzling emerald suit bowed with theatrical flair. "Madame, do you have a moment?" he inquired, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I'm quite the theatre buff myself and, quite frankly, I can't miss a single ballet performance! How delightful to see a fellow enthusiast."
Now, I wouldnāt be true to myself if I hadn't immediately inquired about his favourite ballerinas. Naturally, the most fascinating fact was that, back in the 17th century, there were no professional ballerinas! Men were the stars of the court ballet, dancing in extravagant, silken costumes and impressive masks. They weren't afraid to use high-impact moves like jumps, spins, and acrobatics, quite different from the graceful and lyrical ballet style we're used to seeing today. It seemed as though each performance was an explosion of elaborate, visual storytelling with grand costumes and intricate, even mythical, themes!
The Royal Ballet Court
At the palace, I found myself right in the heart of a bustling court scene. It was just as exciting as the ballets themselves! Noble ladies adorned with elegant, voluminous gowns were surrounded by a plethora of courtiers dressed in lavish embroidered velvet suits, sparkling jewels adorning every finger and ear. I felt my heart leap at the sheer volume of colour and opulence ā a true ballet fan's dream!
I learned that the Ballet de Cour (Court Ballet) had become incredibly popular during Louis XIV's reign, becoming an integral part of court life, a way for the King to entertain himself and his nobles, and showcasing his power and wealth.
Just imagine a performance choreographed by the celebrated dancer Pierre Beauchamps. He's considered to be one of the early pioneers of ballet, the mastermind behind ballet movements that remain in our ballets today! What an exciting time to be a part of ballet history!
This eveningās performance was a triumph ā āLes Saisonsā, a delightful piece celebrating the four seasons. I even saw some of the court ladies wearing vibrant pink silk skirts! Itās all in the small details. Even back in the 1600s, the world was a beautiful place for pink lovers.
The ballerinos were remarkable! The energy and artistry of their moves captivated everyone, from the King to the humblest peasant in the courtyard. It felt truly inspiring to be witness to such vibrant theatre history ā even the performance itself resembled a grand ballet. The entire atmosphere of the court ballet, a fascinating blend of storytelling, grandeur, and technical prowess, resonated deeply with my passion for ballet.
As the final notes echoed through the majestic hall and the applause rose like a tide, I took a deep breath, soaking in the pure magic of it all. In a few more moments, Magic Meg and I would be making our way back to my world, carrying a newfound appreciation for the vibrant and ever-evolving history of ballet.
Letās discuss ballet, darling!
What have you discovered in your own ballet journey? Is there a particular time period or ballet style that inspires you? Leave a comment on my website at www.pink-tutu.com I would love to hear all about it!
Donāt forget, your world needs more pink, and who could possibly resist the magic of a tutu?!
Until next month, let your inner ballerina shine, darlings!
