Hello my darlings, and welcome back to another installment of Pink Tutu Time Travels! It's Emma here, your ever-optimistic pink tutu wearing ballerina extraordinaire, ready to whisk you away on a magical journey through the history of ballet! This month, we're going back in time to a very special date - the 2nd of February, 1700! Can you believe it? Nearly 300 years ago, the world was a very different place, and ballet was just beginning to blossom into the glorious art form we know and love today.
As you know, I'm all about the pink tutu! And who doesn't love a good dose of pink? So, naturally, my outfit for this trip is a beautiful blush pink tulle masterpiece. Imagine it, my darlings, flowing ribbons, sparkly sequins, and a hint of feather trim, all finished off with a dazzling crown of tiny pink roses - a true work of art! To complete the look, I’ve adorned myself with delicate pearl earrings, and a necklace of dainty pink pearls, the sort of elegant jewels they might have worn at a French court during the 1700s. And of course, what pink tutu is complete without the magical transport? Meg is gleaming, as always, a magnificent vision in her glistening pink coat and flowing white mane and tail. It's amazing what a few sparkly hair clips and ribbons can do to transform a shire horse, don't you think?
1700: The Rise of Ballet in France
I love being able to step back in time and feel the buzz of excitement in the air. As I settled into the saddle, a slight shimmer from Meg’s magical hooves swept us back to the early days of ballet, when France reigned supreme! Imagine, no pointe shoes, and ladies in long gowns, but a delicate dance style that paved the way for the captivating ballet techniques we cherish today.
Imagine, my darlings, walking along the bustling streets of Paris, the home of so much early ballet magic! Imagine the grand halls, filled with chandeliers that gleam like diamonds, and balconies overlooking beautifully manicured gardens. The theatre stages were not the elaborate wonders they are today, yet the beauty of the ballet lay in the stories and the talent. There were, of course, many men at this time. They were often soldiers who also danced and formed what we now consider the foundation of the ballet world.
While some of the ballet moves we know today are very different to what was performed during the early 1700s, there was still much passion and dedication for this enchanting art form. Imagine men wearing feathered hats, with long curled hair, and women with tight corsets, ribbons, and high heels, adorned in colorful dresses - all a marvel in motion!
As a ballet historian and lover of all things sparkly, I always enjoy the beautiful contrast between then and now. It was delightful to observe those elegant ballerinas in their elaborately structured gowns as they took to the stage with their delicate and intricate moves! And speaking of moves, think of the incredible ballets of the time! Works by Lully, and those breathtaking dances of Molière!
Ballet Treasures and Time Travelling Memories
The 1700s were a time when ballet was truly in its infancy! I had such a great time soaking it all up, not to mention my latest collection of souvenirs. From the pockets of my leather backpack, I reveal treasures:
- A delicately woven fan of ivory lace, with a small painted portrait of a graceful ballerina at the centre.
- A beautifully bound book of Lully’s ballet compositions, handwritten notes and intricate melodies marking every page.
- And of course, a stunning watercolour sketch of the French Ballet Company, a group of men dressed in elegant clothes. They looked so incredibly noble as they balanced themselves and moved in unison, gracefully holding delicate bouquets.
You know, as I continue to travel through history, I keep realizing one very important thing. It’s not just about the dancing, although the dancing is fabulous! It's about the passion, the dedication, and the storytelling! These elements are timeless and something that every generation can connect with, even back in the 1700s! And that's a beautiful thing.
Dancing the Dream into Reality
Of course, as my readers know, my biggest dream is to inspire every woman and every girl in the world to embrace the beauty and joy of ballet, to wear a pink tutu and unleash their inner ballerina! It might be 1700 or 2023, the magical world of ballet can be a beautiful, magical experience for everyone.
And don’t forget, I fund all my amazing journeys by performing and sharing my passion for ballet! I have some fabulous gigs lined up, so please check my website for upcoming shows. You can even see clips of my performance at www.pink-tutu.com !
But that’s all for this month, darlings! Remember to subscribe and keep an eye out for my next adventure, the date of which is announced each month! Until then, let the dance of your heart flow free, and keep rocking that pink tutu! Until next time, my lovely ballerinas!
