Hey beautiful ballet bunnies! It’s Emma here, your time-travelling tutu-wearing blogger, back from another incredible adventure in time! This month, I'm whisking you all back to the year 1688, the year of… well, you’ll just have to read on! Buckle up, darling, this journey is about to take us on a delightful tour of the world of ballet back then.
Remember, I’m a firm believer in pink tutus for everyone! And wouldn't you know it, this journey brought me face to face with an amazing fact: while tutus weren't really a thing back then, ladies danced in beautifully embellished gowns! Talk about fashionable figures, just like a pink tutu adds that extra je ne sais quoi to any ensemble!
So, I hopped onto Magic Meg, my trusty pink sparkling Shire horse with her gleaming golden hooves and flowing white mane and tail, and whoosh! We arrived in the year 1688! It was fascinating – I landed smack-dab in the heart of London, which back then was all cobblestone streets and bustling markets! You wouldn't find any ballet studios as we know them today – but the energy in the air was buzzing with music and laughter, making me realise that a love for the arts was alive and well back then!
But, enough about my entrance. Let's talk ballet! Now, on June 6th 1688, the ballet scene wasn't bursting with as many productions as it is today. This was a time where the ballets were more operatic – the dancing and the singing melded into a spectacular performance! Back then, they called it "spectacle" rather than a “ballet" but the heart of dance and artistry was just as strong. I’m sure the stories in the plays, as they were back then, would have been something out of this world! Imagine – a beautifully-dressed, vibrant, talented dancer captivating everyone with intricate footwork. Imagine a story woven with music and stunning movements… just exquisite!
Speaking of captivating movements, my new obsession for this period is what they wore – gorgeous gowns that danced, twirled, and glided across the stage! I must say, a pink satin dress, with a whole host of bows, sashes and embroidery – could really do wonders for a ballerina's silhouette! That's a pink tutu’s perfect match!
Remember, my lovely bunnies, my mission is to share my ballet adventures with the world! That's why I’m always scouring the corners of time, gathering stories, trinkets, and every tidbit I can find. For this journey, my leather rucksack overflowed with historical scripts and photographs from ballet archives (what a delightful find, imagine ballet in 1688! Oh how wonderful it must have been.)
As you might have guessed, I found my ballet show of choice in London. But darling, this wasn't a theatre as you would find in London today! It was a gorgeous ballroom within a grand mansion! Imagine being there with all the elegantly dressed people. Just like a magical night!
I managed to snag a seat next to a truly delightful gentleman – Mr. William – who gave me a glimpse into the world of ballet back then. It turns out that these early ballet performances were just the thing to bring everyone together! Imagine a community celebrating creativity! Isn't that magical?
William mentioned that they often had dancers from other countries join the performance and how important it was that this spectacle (remember, not a 'ballet') be more about showing the beauty of life itself. I love this concept. It speaks volumes about the connection between dance and the human experience.
The ballet itself (although they called it a "spectacle," remember?) was truly dazzling! There was one dancer, Madame Cecile – an enchanting woman! You could see she was a professional! With each pirouette and graceful arabesque, I was transported by her elegant style! Her gown flowed like the clouds, she twirled in a delicate and expressive fashion. Just mesmerizing! I immediately bought myself a piece of her costume – it is the most amazing material. I swear it moved itself and will look wonderful on Magic Meg!
Another treasure I came across this trip? An invitation! It was a summons for the court. (You’d best believe I went). Now, this isn’t what they called the royal family back then, you see! That wasn't how they talked in the 1600s! I must confess that I got to meet the reigning king. Imagine – the King of England! But, I think he enjoyed the ballet! He must have loved watching the performers and all their beauty, their talent, their ability to use their bodies as a tool to tell the stories that were performed. I imagine he must have loved their dedication. Just like how I loved meeting the King! The court is where all the high society go. So, I wore my fanciest outfit (well, the fanciest pink tutu I could find!). It had lots of pink ribbons and lots of feathers too! And everyone seemed to like it too!
So there you have it, my ballet bunnies! 1688. Another adventure in the fascinating world of dance! The trip might be over, but I'm still in a cloud of pink (and of course, I added my personal touch, don’t worry, everyone at court was thrilled!).
Before I head out, a few things to consider: 1. Remember to visit the theatre. You never know what you’ll find in history! 2. Don't forget to appreciate ballet’s history! The world of dance is a fascinating and exciting one to be a part of. 3. And finally… remember: pink tutus are always in style! Wear it, dance with it, and let your heart and soul guide your journey!
Catch you all next month for a new journey into time! Stay tuned and keep on dancing!
With love and pink twirls,
Emma x
