Hello my darlings! Emma here, and it’s time for another fabulous voyage through time! This month, I'm whisking you away to the 4th of April, 1700, and trust me, this one’s a real treat!
As always, I’m donned in my trusty pink tutu, of course! It wouldn’t be a Pink Tutu Time Travels adventure without a touch of my signature style, would it? Magic Meg is champing at the bit, her pink sparkling coat gleaming under the Derbyshire sunlight. And her hooves, well, they’re a sight to behold - pure golden brilliance! ✨
Today, my darling readers, we’re off to see what the world of ballet had to offer back in the year 1700.
Back in time...
After a breathtaking leap through the centuries, Magic Meg and I landed in a charming cobblestone square in the heart of London. The air was crisp, the smell of freshly baked bread filling my senses. And of course, the streets were bustling with people dressed in exquisite fashions – just what any fashionista like me would want to see!
We meandered our way towards Covent Garden. Covent Garden is actually mentioned in an account of 'Opera' from this period and it mentions, quite casually, that ballet "dances are interspersed in the opera." Ballet wasn't quite its own separate entity yet, but even then, it had an undeniably powerful impact on theatre, adding a touch of visual storytelling and theatrical beauty. I do love a good mix of storytelling and dance - you wouldn’t catch me sitting through a ballet without a clear story line! 🩰
Ballet in the Year 1700: A Sneak Peek
Oh my dears! You’ll never believe this: Back in 1700, there wasn’t a whole lot of formal ballet around! Instead, ballet featured as interludes, even short "tableaux", in larger stage works. It was like seeing a fleeting glimpse of beauty, a quick taste of gracefulness, amid the grander story. I have to admit, I’m quite drawn to this concept – the elegance of movement as a counterpoint to a larger tale. I might need to put my mind to crafting a piece that echoes this very idea, with all the magic of modern dance mixed in for good measure! ✨
My Ballet Bag Finds
While exploring London in my pink tutu, of course, I collected some treasures for my leather rucksack. From my ventures today:
- A Vintage Pamphlet: I found a little pamphlet talking about the grand operas performed in London around this time. You see, a lot of the 'ballet' that appeared involved elaborate sets and costumes that pushed the limits of creativity - just like I do!
- A Fancy Mask: Just like today, fashion is a crucial element of the opera world! And to capture the spirit of 1700's theater, I found a stunning velvet mask that was probably meant to be used during a performance. I just might add some glitter! 🎭
- A Pencil Sketch of a Dance: This little sketch is incredibly precious! It shows a dancer performing a pose that reminds me of one of my favourite exercises. It seems the artistry of movement has always held a certain charm for those with a true love of ballet. 🩰
Pink Tutu Musings: My Love for Ballet History
It’s so fascinating to witness how ballet has evolved over the centuries, isn’t it? Seeing how dancers performed back in 1700 reminds me of how deeply intertwined our beloved ballet is with storytelling, fashion, and the performing arts as a whole. I really can’t imagine life without ballet, but It makes me so incredibly happy that my time travels give me this peek into the grand tapestry of ballet’s past. 💖
Pink Tutu Tip:
Why don't you start collecting your own little time travel trinkets! It could be a pretty ballerina doll or even a lovely fabric print, whatever makes you think about all the wonderful people and places ballet has touched over time! It’s about bringing that spark of the past to our love of the present.
What's New in the World of Ballet Today:
Now, dear friends, we need to return to our own time! I am so ready to immerse myself back into the world of modern ballet. But before I hop onto Magic Meg’s back, I want to share some highlights of today’s world of dance:
- A Brand New Ballet: "Dreamland"! This original piece by my favourite choreograph just premiered. It’s inspired by all things whimsical, with a mix of contemporary and neoclassical styles - I hear the costumes are to die for! I am adding this show to my must-see list - don't forget to check out your local theater's schedule, my darlings!
- Street Dance Celebration: "The Hustle!" Street dance, the pulsating beat of urban creativity, is really hitting its stride right now. I’m absolutely obsessed with it – the energy, the inventiveness, the amazing costumes – all the things I love! I think street dance brings ballet into a new dimension, reminding us how powerful, expressive and fun dance can be! And you know what else, street dance is making the ballet community more diverse and inclusive – something we can all get behind!
- Fashion Extravaganza at the Ballet Awards! From haute couture gowns to stylish shoes and dazzling jewels, the world of ballet and fashion go hand-in-hand! Keep an eye out for the ballet award shows, which showcase fashion and dance at its most spectacular. It’s truly a dazzling event!
I am so thrilled that my time travel took us back to April 4th, 1700. I hope it’s inspired you, my lovelies, to look closer at ballet’s fascinating history! Remember to keep your passion for ballet shining as brightly as the golden hooves of Magic Meg!
And, as always, my darling readers, don’t forget to wear pink! Until next month! 💖🩰
Love, Emma www.pink-tutu.com
