#BalletHistory during 1686 02 February

Hello, my darling dears! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina, Emma, here, back with another fabulous post for my cherished www.pink-tutu.com readers! This is post number 302, and I’m bubbling over with excitement about today's journey – I’m off to 1686! I simply can’t wait to see what ballet adventures await us in the shimmering past!

I've already packed my trusty leather rucksack – a fabulous shade of pink, of course – and filled it with vintage-style ballet shoes, a collection of delicate tulle ribbons and, of course, some exquisitely embroidered handkerchiefs (it's always good to be prepared for a spot of emotion). I also managed to grab a precious antique locket engraved with a miniature ballet slipper, perfect for gathering precious stories from the time period.

But first, let's hop on my darling Meg! She’s a magical pink-sparkling shire with golden hooves, a mane and tail like spun white silk. She’s as eager to travel back in time as I am, which makes our trips oh so magical!

So, let’s raise our champagne flutes (filled with delicious pink lemonade, naturally!) to a thrilling journey into the captivating world of ballet during 1686!

The 2nd of February 1686 lands us smack dab in the middle of the reign of the dashing King Charles II! A time when French influences were making waves in English culture, with dances like the gavotte and the minuet gaining popularity. Can you imagine, my lovelies, dancing the gavotte in a powdered wig and a richly-embroidered courtly gown? I must confess, I wouldn't mind trying!

Although professional ballet was still relatively new, it was already taking the stage by storm, especially in France. Louis XIV – known as the Sun King – was a fervent devotee of ballet, with the magnificent Paris Opéra flourishing under his patronage.

Ballet back then wasn't the technical spectacle we're familiar with today – it was a grand, formal, theatrical performance that included elaborate costumes, music, and drama. They still weren't doing grand jetés, tour, or pirouettes, but I can just imagine the elegance of their slow, fluid movements, punctuated by beautiful poses!

Now, if I can get my time-traveling steed, Meg, to take us to France, wouldn't that be simply divine? I dream of witnessing the splendor of a Parisian opera performance, wearing a bejeweled brocade gown, perhaps adorned with plumes! Ah, just thinking about it gives me a shiver of pure excitement!

Okay, now for a quick glimpse into my own world – my cosy cottage nestled in the heart of the Derbyshire countryside! I always get such a rush of contentment when I’m home, surrounded by my beautiful ballet memorabilia, and with Meg, of course, curled up comfortably in her shimmering stable.

There are times when being away for months at a time can make me long for home – for the sweet scent of lavender wafting from my little garden and the warmth of my granny’s homemade scones! I think all that time travelling gives me a bit of an appetite! But, the wonderful people I meet, the amazing shows I see and the history I delve into makes every journey truly worth it.

Speaking of ballet… I just saw a fantastic advert for a production of ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Birmingham Hippodrome – perfect for a delightful evening out! Did you know the story was inspired by a collection of magical Christmas-themed tales by E.T.A. Hoffmann? I find the enchanting story simply captivating – especially the mystical Sugar Plum Fairy! I might just slip into my shimmering pink tutu for the performance… What do you think, lovelies?

Oh, and wouldn’t you know it – there’s also an exhibition at the London National Portrait Gallery called “Fashion and Power: Dressed for the Court”! The exhibition focuses on the stylish and sumptuous costumes worn by monarchs and noblemen during the 16th and 17th centuries! It sounds like it’ll be an amazing trip for any fashion lover…and that means me, darling dears! I may have to hop onto Meg’s back and get over to London as quickly as possible!

But speaking of travelling... my dear Meg has been nudging me, her golden hooves tapping impatiently. Time to jump on her back and embark on our thrilling journey to 1686! I’m so excited to discover more about the enchanting world of ballet during this historic period!

Stay tuned, my lovely ballet bunnies! I’ll be back soon to share my latest adventures!

Until next time, darling dears, keep swirling and twirling!