Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time traveller, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet. I'm thrilled to be sharing with you all about my recent journey to 9th September 1696!
This time, my fabulous friend, Magic Meg, and I set off to sunny France! Let me tell you, there's nothing like the feeling of a crisp September morning, the wind whipping through your hair, with a magical pink horse whisking you away through the centuries. Meg truly is the most stylish steed in all of history, with her shimmering pink coat, golden hooves and white flowing mane and tail. She just radiates such elegance and grace.
A Royal Occasion: We arrived just in time for a rather grand event at the Palace of Versailles. King Louis XIV, the "Sun King" himself, was celebrating his 48th birthday, and the air buzzed with anticipation. My senses were alight with the excitement of it all - the courtly dances, the opulent gowns, the music - it was an absolute feast for my eyes.
Fashion, Fashion, Everywhere:
The women of the court, my dears, they knew a thing or two about dressing to impress! Think silk gowns adorned with lace, jewel-toned fabrics, powdered wigs - truly magnificent! It felt like stepping straight into a portrait, and even though there was nary a tutu in sight, the fashion here was simply divine. But just you wait, I have a plan! My aim in life is to get everyone wearing a pink tutu, and I believe these French ladies could be the perfect starting point.
Ballet's Hidden Roots
Although there wasn’t a formal ballet performance during the festivities, that doesn’t mean the world of ballet wasn't present! During the 17th century, court ballets were all the rage, with dances of astonishing grandeur performed by aristocrats and professionals alike. In fact, King Louis XIV was himself a passionate dancer, having founded the Royal Academy of Dance in 1661! I can only imagine the spectacle of it all!
Filling My Rucksack with Memories:
Of course, no journey is complete without collecting precious memories. In my leather rucksack, nestled amongst the pink feathers and silken ribbons, I secured several precious ballet items from 1696. Firstly, a delicate silk fan adorned with a portrait of the Sun King himself. This intricate masterpiece was given to a lady in the royal court - the beauty of it just captivated me. I can almost feel the whispers of forgotten conversations as I hold it to my cheek.
Secondly, I discovered an old music manuscript for a courtly dance - a stunning composition from the era. Its fading notes spoke volumes of elegance and intricate choreography - pure ballet magic! I cannot wait to analyse the movements and steps within it once I return home!
The Gift of Inspiration
Every time I step through the veil of time, I find myself so inspired! To know that even back then, during an era of powdered wigs and extravagant dresses, the dance held a place of such beauty and honour truly invigorates me. I’m convinced that everyone, no matter what century they are from, needs a bit of pink tutu joy in their lives. So, until next month, I bid you adieu. Let’s continue to dance our hearts out and wear our pink tutus proudly, my dears!
Don't forget to check out the Pink Tutu website for exclusive content and videos, and don't forget to check out my monthly dance performances, where I raise funds for my incredible time travelling adventures! Till next time, my loves, stay sparkly!
Post Number 429: www.pink-tutu.com
