Hello my dearest ballet enthusiasts! It’s Emma here, ready to whisk you away on another enchanting time-travelling adventure. Grab your pinkest tutu (because, you know, it's just the perfect colour) and saddle up on Magic Meg, my sparkling pink shire horse. Today, we’re heading back to the 9th of September, 1690, to experience a day of history, glamour, and, of course, ballet!
As usual, before I set off, I need to choose what ballet treasures to pack in my leather rucksack. Today, my senses tell me that some ornate fans and dainty dance shoes from the era are in order. Who knows what theatrical delights we’ll uncover?
We're galloping across the countryside, my pink silk cape billowing behind us, the air crisp with autumn’s chill. The sun dips behind rolling hills, casting long shadows on the land. It feels magical, being here, so far removed from my own life, surrounded by history and the rustling leaves.
As Magic Meg slows to a trot, I spot the vibrant city of London stretching before us.
This year, 1690, has been a bustling year for the ballet world! It was during this very year, just last May, that Joseph Brossard, a composer, premiered his masterpiece: "The Art of Dancing". It was a ground-breaking composition, breaking away from the formal steps of court ballet and bringing about a wave of innovative choreography that celebrated individual expression. This new style, known as Ballets de Cour, had been brewing in court circles for years and its impact on the evolution of dance was seismic!
A couple of months later in July, the Italian-French composer, Michel Lambert, who holds the prestigious position of Composer to the King, composed his ballet, "L'Ambitieuse." Imagine, the glamour of attending a ballet performance and hearing an original score composed for you by the royal composer! How magnificent!
So, you see, the world of ballet is constantly evolving and 1690 was truly a momentous year. But before I lose myself in a reverie about grand pas de deux and pirouettes, I better check the local posters. Perhaps we'll be fortunate enough to witness a performance today.
Luckily, our journey today coincided with a very special ballet happening. The esteemed "King's Theatre," just opposite St. James's Palace, has scheduled an exquisite evening of dancing and music. The excitement buzzes through the air like a hummingbird’s wings. This must-see performance is "The Grand Sultan," an epic story of love, betrayal, and, yes, glorious dance! This performance has already been making waves, its beauty attracting many to the theatre.
The grandeur of the theatre itself takes my breath away. Its lavish interiors adorned with silks, mirrors, and gold, truly makes one feel like a princess transported to a fairytale. As the crowd mingles, a delightful atmosphere of excitement surrounds us. We can hear the strains of music from within.
Finally, the lights dim, the audience falls silent, and the curtain rises. Oh, my! What a spectacle! I've seen so many theatrical performances but this one has something magical about it. The graceful steps of the dancers, the powerful melodies that echo around the room, and the colourful costumes are truly awe-inspiring. This must be what royalty dreams about!
One moment that sticks out for me was a Grand Pas de Deux performed by two gifted dancers. It felt like time stood still as they waltzed across the stage. Each intricate step was a beautiful whisper of love and loss.
As I absorb every moment of this exquisite performance, my mind races with possibilities. What are these magnificent dancers going through on this beautiful evening? Their lives, their training, their passions? I would love to share a tea with them and discuss ballet fashion, performance techniques, and their dreams for the future. What a fascinating story I could write in my ballet blog!
After the curtain calls and applause, the evening spills out into the city streets. The lively atmosphere lingers as we join the rest of the crowd.
But I'm determined to experience a bit more of life as it was lived back in 1690. I hear whispers of an exclusive, after-hours party at a grand townhouse. How could I miss the opportunity to meet dancers, discuss the theatre, and experience life outside the stage?
The gathering is teeming with fascinating characters. From courtiers in extravagant costumes to scholars discussing the latest literary news, it’s a true blend of the sophisticated and the playful.
I try my best to fit in, observing the elegant ways of the people around me. I sip my wine, carefully hiding my leather rucksack so it doesn’t stand out. Luckily, my pink tutu is still sparkling and has a touch of antique embroidery on it that doesn't look out of place amongst this lively gathering. My favourite moment was when I found a small group discussing the impact of Ballets de Cour on dance. I slipped into the conversation and surprised everyone with my knowledge about ballet history and the evolving world of ballet. The conversation was so interesting, that I almost forgot the time.
As the night begins to wind down and the clock strikes past midnight, I remember my trip back home. It's always bittersweet saying goodbye to these amazing worlds. We leave the bustling streets behind, as Magic Meg carries me into the early hours, with a newfound respect for the grace and beauty of the world in 1690.
Today, my lovelies, I learned so much about ballet history and experienced an era of exciting change! The year 1690 was filled with brilliant dancers, dazzling costumes, and truly awe-inspiring ballet productions. I urge you to discover more about this incredible time, to learn the story of the Ballets de Cour, to read the works of Joseph Brossard and Michel Lambert. Let’s honour the incredible talents of these dancers and their contribution to our beloved art form!
If you are ready to start your own ballet adventure, do share your story in the comments section. And, please, if you haven’t already, don't hesitate to slip on a beautiful pink tutu and embrace your own love for dance! Until next month, dance with your hearts and your souls!
Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com to follow my latest adventures!
