Hello, darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your one-stop shop for all things pink and twirly. I'm Emma, your resident ballerina and time traveller extraordinaire, and this month I'm whisking you away to a dazzling time in history: 6th June 1699!
As you all know, I adore a good grand ball. So, naturally, I couldn't resist visiting Versailles on this very date. Imagine, my dears, a magnificent palace adorned with gold and marble, a vast ballroom buzzing with chatter, and everyone clad in their finest finery. This was the heart of the French court, and every detail was designed to impress.
I arrived with Magic Meg, my darling pink sparkling Shire horse. She, of course, was adorned with a delicate pink floral garland, her golden hooves sparkling in the sun. My own attire? A shimmering pink tulle tutu, of course! With the sun reflecting on my sequins, I was a vision in pale pink perfection, a delightful splash of colour amidst the velvet and lace of the court.
This time, my backpack held treasures for my museum collection - a stunningly detailed embroidery pattern from a court dress, a gilded feather from a fan, and, of course, a pamphlet about the upcoming opera at Versailles. Did you know that 1699 saw the rise of the 'Tragédie Lyrique', a dramatic opera style that included all sorts of elaborate staging and scenery?
Now, picture this: the grandeur of the French court. The King and Queen are in attendance, and everyone is vying for their attention. Imagine the music swirling around you, the graceful waltz steps, and the elaborate costumes – all dripping with diamonds, jewels, and brocade! It was a veritable fairytale, and I must confess, I rather enjoyed the elegant atmosphere and the intricate steps of the dance.
But the grandest event of the day wasn't the court ball itself!
The main event? The opening night of a new production of Jean-Baptiste Lully’s Armide. Yes, my lovelies, opera in the 17th century was a major deal. This musical masterpiece was filled with drama, passion, and spectacle, showcasing the French artistic genius at its peak. And let me tell you, seeing the beautiful set design and elaborate costumes brought the entire event to life, transporting me to a magical world of magic and music.
My trip back to 1699 brought back more than just the stories and memories. It reminded me that dance, and music in particular, have always been at the heart of grand celebrations and stories. It reminds me, that whether it's a grand ballet or a tiny stage in the middle of Derbyshire, there is magic to be found in every twirl and step.
Remember, my darlings, even in the darkest of times, even if you haven’t found the pink tutu of your dreams, don’t lose hope! Just like Magic Meg carries me through time and space, the world of ballet, and the power of pink tutus can transport you anywhere you desire.
Stay tuned, dearies, for my next pink-tutu-filled adventure, coming soon to Pink-Tutu.com. Remember, keep your tutu sparkly and your dreams even brighter! Until next time!
XOXO, Emma ✨
