Hello my dearest Tutu Twirlers!
It's Emma here, your pink tutu-clad time travelling guide to all things ballet! Today we're stepping back in time to May 5th, 1695, a date that marks a pivotal moment in French ballet, and therefore, the world of dance itself!
My beautiful Meg, a true pink-sparkle shire horse with a golden mane and hooves, pawed at the stable door, as if to say, "Come on, let's go! Time to learn about ballet!" I smoothed down my own tulle pink tutu (my new one from the Nottingham Ballet Boutique - absolutely divine!) and fastened my pink ballet shoes, matching the shade of Meg's pink satin bridle, because we were off on another time travel adventure! This month, the magic took us to the Court of Louis XIV in Versailles, France.
As I strapped my leather rucksack onto my back, I was bubbling with excitement. Versailles! What secrets of ballet history might I find there? What stories and treasures would I discover to add to my growing collection?
As Meg whinnied softly, I gave her a quick pat. It felt as if I could sense a feeling of shared anticipation with her. The shimmer of the stable was bright, casting rainbows off the walls. With a quick nod to her, I leaped onto her saddle. Then, with a gentle kick, we were off.
French Flair: The Beginning of Ballet as We Know It
Fast forward through time, past glittering fields and soaring oak trees. And woosh, there it was – the breathtaking spectacle of Versailles! Just a gentle landing, right in the center of the expansive palace courtyard. Such beauty! Such grandeur!
Now, it's fair to say that May 5th, 1695 wasn't the most celebrated day in history. It didn’t even hold a candle to the majesty of ballet that graced the court on a regular basis during Louis XIV's reign. Imagine, the very foundation of ballet, as we know it today, was laid out right here.
I made a bee-line for the grand opera house in the palace, ready to dive head-first into the history of dance! I was delighted to discover it wasn’t the grand spectacle I was expecting! The ballet classes were held in smaller, intimate studios, tucked away in the palace, and there was an absolute sense of order and ceremony in their structure.
The Rules of the Courtly Ballet
Let me tell you, ballet was still in its formative stages then. This was an era of ballets de cour (Court Ballet), performances designed for a privileged few. Every movement, every costume, every piece of choreography was strictly dictated by royal decree, overseen by a team of skilled dance masters.
But what caught my attention more than anything was the evolution of ballet footwear! You see, ladies back then didn't wear ballet shoes in the modern sense. They wore delicate slippers with satin or leather, and the dancers had to rely on their strong toes and the supportive shoes, rather than pointe work. Imagine dancing with only satin on your feet – such precision and elegance! I, myself, had to leave my pointy pink shoes behind to not spoil the historical accuracy. Thankfully I was sporting my delicate silk and ribbon shoes I picked up in the vintage dance boutique near my Derbyshire home.
The King’s Grace: A Passion for Dance
Of course, no visit to Louis XIV's Versailles could be complete without acknowledging the "Sun King" himself. Louis, he wasn’t just a king, but a true dance enthusiast!
He danced frequently, performed with his dancers, even created ballets for the court himself. The dances became an intrinsic part of his public persona. They allowed him to flaunt his power, demonstrate his mastery, and inspire awe in all those watching. Can you imagine the pressure on his dancing ability? No one dared say, "Your Majesty, that arabesque needs a bit of work."
I must admit, it felt strange watching him. All those high-stepping pas de bourrées, grand jetés, and elegant turns - all done to convey political power! Can you imagine?! He was also the epitome of ballet fashion. The King was no stranger to extravagant costumes, including breeches, flowing velvet capes, and a shimmering pink wig (the ultimate shade!). Now that's a fashion statement!
Ballet as Social Commentary
While the ballet was about social hierarchies and politics, there was always more going on beneath the surface. It was an incredible spectacle. Even more incredible though, the stories danced out at the French court revealed themes about power, intrigue, and courtly love, often disguised as whimsical fables.
That's how things were done in the French Court at the time!
Finding a Bit of Versailles for Ourselves
So there we have it! Our time travel adventures once again reminding us just how much dance, even from such a formalized setting like the Court of Louis XIV, has played a role in creating the incredible and wonderfully expressive world of ballet we have today. Even if, nowadays, our focus tends to be more on graceful movement, personal artistic expression, and dazzling costumes than political propaganda!
Before jumping back on Meg's back for our return journey to Derbyshire, I took out my trusty rucksack, ready to collect a few things that brought this date in history back to life. There were tiny silver dance slippers with little satin bows, and I grabbed an embroidered, silky green velvet coat from one of the grand court rooms!
Even after all my travels, I feel the energy and glamour of Versailles, still tingling beneath my skin. A ballet trip, like a magic fairy tale, leaves me feeling inspired for weeks on end.
Until next month!
Happy Dancing!
Emma
Don't forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com for all things ballet fashion and fun. You know how I love to keep you ladies inspired!
P.S. Remember to join me next month for another Time Travel adventure. Who knows where we’ll end up next?
Keep twirling and remember - every one of us can dance like royalty. You can even wear a pink tutu - I strongly recommend it!
