Hello my darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travel! It’s your favourite pink-loving ballerina, Emma, here.
This month I’ve been whisked away on a magical adventure, straight to the Court of Louis XIV, back on the 11th of November in 1691! Let me tell you, I’m feeling utterly fabulous after a night of glittering costumes, enchanting music and — of course — some sensational ballet!
The journey there, as usual, was absolutely divine. Meg, my gorgeous pink sparkling Shire horse with her golden hooves and cascading white mane and tail, galloped us through time in a whirl of sparkling dust and a flurry of pink! My leather rucksack, which is absolutely bursting with ballet treasures I pick up on my travels, clunked happily against my back as we raced through centuries.
Now, if you’ve ever watched a period drama, you'll probably have an idea of what the court was like. Extravagantly decorated rooms, lavishly dressed guests, and a real sense of grandeur! Honestly, darling, the atmosphere was positively electrifying. I felt like I was in one of those grand opera houses I adore.
As for the performance, I have to tell you, I was positively swept away. I’m talking the very latest in court ballet, a genre I’ve been obsessed with ever since I first laid eyes on those iconic illustrations in old French ballet books. These ballets, my dears, were quite a departure from the delicate steps of traditional Italian ballets. These movements were more dynamic, energetic and full of daring acrobatic leaps – it was quite a spectacle, I assure you!
One particular ballerina really stole the show! This incredible talent was known as Marie-Thérèse de Subligny. The beauty and strength she exhibited were incredible. Watching her, I felt that tingle of excitement I get whenever I witness someone truly mastering the art of ballet. And she was dressed in an outrageously beautiful costume — all cascading silks and shimmering ribbons — a masterpiece in its own right!
It wasn’t just the choreography, though. Oh no! The entire production was a symphony of opulence, a dazzling kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. From the grandness of the set to the intricate costumes of the performers, the production itself was truly breathtaking.
But here's the thing, my dears: although the costumes were incredibly elaborate and lavish — even more than you could imagine — they definitely didn’t involve tutus! Not even a pink one, much to my disappointment.
But what the court did have was the most delightful selection of dance footwear. I saw some of the most elegant slippers you could imagine, all handcrafted with delicate ribbons and intricately adorned. You can imagine my little heart fluttering with delight as I tried to soak up as much of the style as possible! I imagine that's exactly how I would feel if I suddenly walked into a vintage fashion store full of designer ballet shoes!
As the evening went on, the dancing and the excitement continued. It was like stepping into a living fairytale. The musicians playing their intricate music, the ballerinas swirling across the floor with such grace and athleticism, the audience buzzing with admiration — everything felt like magic. It truly reminded me why ballet holds such a special place in my heart, how it can sweep you up into its world and leave you breathless.
This incredible experience is exactly why I travel through time. You see, darling, ballet isn’t just about pirouettes and pointe shoes. It's a language, a history, a way of life. It speaks across centuries, transcending time and cultures. And the story it tells, its evolution, its artistry - I just need to be part of it.
And so, I made my way back home on Meg's sturdy back, the experience echoing in my soul, and the memories filling my rucksack along with the intricate lace I was fortunate enough to collect! As I said, I truly am obsessed with ballet’s history.
For all you fellow ballet aficionados out there, be sure to visit www.pink-tutu.com next month for my next instalment of Pink Tutu Time Travel. Until then, wear pink tutus! And don’t forget to tell your friends and family to subscribe too! Let’s make this world pink and twirling together!
