Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travel! August is here, and the sun is shining in Derbyshire, bringing with it the sweet scent of lavender and the thrill of knowing that the harvest festival is just around the corner! I, for one, am particularly excited this year. You see, this month is all about Paris, and my favourite thing to do in Paris, apart from, of course, parading in my pinkest tutu, is to catch a ballet at the Opéra Garnier.
The month of August is extra special this year as I'm taking Magic Meg on a grand trip to celebrate 300 years since the grand opening of this iconic venue - The Palais Garnier. That's right, darlings, back in 1698, the world's most beloved opera house (which happens to be a stone's throw from the equally stunning Louvre) opened its doors to a bewitched audience, marking a turning point in the history of ballet.
Can you imagine it? The anticipation! The sheer brilliance of a freshly constructed palace, with walls gleaming under the flickering candlelight, ready to welcome its first guests? It's truly a testament to how ballet, right from its earliest days, was a spectacle designed to enchant, to draw people into a world of enchantment, leaving them wanting more.
Speaking of spectacles, dear readers, can you believe that back in 1698 there wasn't even a dedicated ballet company performing at the Palais Garnier? The Royal Academy of Music, in fact, wasn't founded until 1713. But you see, this is where it gets even more exciting - even though no official ballet troupe had taken root, there were already countless little dancing societies that would meet and present a spectacular range of dances. Can you imagine, darling? Not just ballerinas, but a kaleidoscope of performers! It wasn’t only just ladies, you see. These "little dancing societies" were comprised of men, women, even children, showing off the dance styles of the time, all across the bustling Parisian streets.
But back to 1698. Can you imagine being one of the first patrons of the Palais Garnier, sitting in one of its grandly cushioned boxes, bathed in the soft glow of the candles, taking in the grandeur of the interior, the gilded ceiling, the intricate décor, all while the most esteemed dance society performs? Just the thought sends shivers of joy down my spine. The excitement must have been palpable, the anticipation bordering on feverish. It's this vibrant spirit that fuels my pink-tutu clad travels, bringing history back to life for all of you!
So what can I bring back from 1698, you might ask? Plenty!
- Imagine me arriving at Palais Garnier on August 8th in a majestic swirl of my tulle tutu, a blush pink against the shimmering black night, the glistening moonlight illuminating the horses hooves. A wave of applause rises from the Parisian streets.
- I am making it my mission to hunt down the exact design of the very first stage costumes, jotting down their intricacies in my little black notebook, complete with a detailed colour analysis, ready to create my own homage on Pink-Tutu.com.
- There’s even word that a particular dance company will be holding a competition later this month! I just must attend - who knows what styles I can find there!
But this isn't a trip just for history buffs, my darling! Oh no, there are more reasons to love the August of 1698. I'll share the delights of Parisian life with you - a visit to the vibrant markets of Les Halles, a little afternoon tea in the gardens of Tuileries Palace, a spot of shopping at the fashionable Parisian boutiques!
Oh, did I mention the delicious macarons? The finest you can imagine, so delicate, so light, they just melt on the tongue.
And did I tell you? This year, my travel will include a special guest. My friend Caroline (she loves her dance as much as she loves her red polka dot tutus, if not more), will be joining me for this particular trip. Caroline, a dear friend who happens to be a ballerina in my hometown, will be helping me document it all. So keep an eye out for special updates and exclusive photographs!
Stay tuned, my darling Pink-Tutu lovers, because this time travel adventure is sure to be a symphony of fun, colour, and history! Don't forget to follow along on www.pink-tutu.com for more. You're a true tutu darling, and don’t forget to let me know your thoughts and comments. See you next time, dear reader!
Your eternally twirling Emma
P.S. My performances are raising funds for my time travels and to continue my journey through the magic of ballet. Why not catch me at a performance in Derbyshire?
I hope you've enjoyed my first little blog piece of August's travel blog. It will continue to develop.
