Hello my gorgeous tutu-lovers!
It's Emma here, your pink-loving, time-traveling ballerina, and this month we're whisking ourselves back to the glorious year of 1702, where the world of ballet was beginning to blossom in its own unique way!
Now, I'm a huge fan of exploring ballet history, so as I galloped through the countryside on Magic Meg – yes, my trusty pink sparkling Shire horse with the golden hooves and flowing mane – I was itching to see what was happening in the ballet world back in 1702.
I must say, the Derbyshire countryside looked spectacular this morning with the early winter chill making the leaves crackle under Magic Meg's hooves.
Oh, did I mention Magic Meg was wearing a cute pink pompom hat? You know how I love a bit of sparkle! And for our travels, I opted for my trusty powder pink tutu with delicate embroidery – I mean, one must be comfortable for time travel! I also donned my leather rucksack, ready to collect some amazing ballet stories and perhaps even a vintage pair of ballet shoes to add to my collection!
So, what was happening on the 12th of December in the year of 1702?
Well, let me tell you, the ballet world was abuzz with a particular performance. Now, whilst ballet in England wasn't quite as grand as it was in France at the time, there was a definite buzz! You see, the French dancers Louis and Nicolas de la Grange, famous for their graceful style, were travelling to England to showcase their amazing skills at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.
Now, these French dancers brought with them a fresh, elegant style – a departure from the heavier, more robust English dancing of the time. It was a time of artistic crossover, where dancers from different countries would blend their techniques, making the world of ballet richer and more fascinating!
Imagine: all the swirling skirts, the nimble steps, the graceful movements – a symphony of beautiful body language that left the audiences mesmerised. I can practically picture the stage, adorned with ornate props and the glittering chandeliers casting their light on the dancers in their opulent costumes. I just love those early, romantic ballrooms!
It's time to indulge in a spot of shopping...
As we're in London, I couldn't resist stopping at a charming boutique on St. James Street. You see, back then, fashion was everything – and even the ballet costumes were quite elaborate. I snagged a couple of silk ribbons – perfect for my ballet bag! The shopkeeper told me she loved the look of my pink tutu. A real "tutu" fan! I've always wanted to wear the classic pink, which I can now see is really starting to be a fashion staple. A timeless, yet utterly chic look!
I spent the afternoon strolling around Covent Garden. The sights, sounds and smells were so different to our modern day world - even the buildings seemed so imposing! In this buzzing atmosphere, it felt wonderful to simply breathe in the history and the creativity around me. I could see London bustling with energy. It was hard not to be excited!
And lastly, before I set off on the journey back to Derbyshire, we had to squeeze in a show!
After all, who better to give a ballet blogger a grand finale than one of London's own stage spectacles!
Now, in 1702, opera was at the forefront, and we couldn't leave without a visit to The Queen's Theatre. And who should be performing? The renowned actor, Mrs. Bracegirdle, was dazzling on stage, bringing the captivating story of the play "The Mourning Bride" to life.
Just thinking of the emotion on display, the poignant dialogues, and the intricate costumes brings me back to that extraordinary evening. You see, I am drawn to those older traditions - all those beautiful voices in harmony.
Returning to Derbyshire, I feel filled with the history of ballet...
The carriage journey back felt incredibly surreal as the last glimpses of London flitted by. And that evening, surrounded by the quiet, star-studded countryside, I sat with Magic Meg under the night sky, absorbing everything I had taken in during my journey. My mind raced with thoughts of the captivating dances of 1702 and the elegance of the French style.
It’s fascinating to see how ballet was evolving, like a magnificent blossoming rose – beautiful, delicate and oh-so fascinating!
And you know what? I think a pink tutu would have looked rather fetching on a stage back then!
Remember to visit www.pink-tutu.com every month to read my blog and for my latest ballet adventures.
I'll see you all in February for my next adventure. Until then, don your pinkest tutu and embrace the world of ballet. Happy dancing, my dears!
Love,
Emma x
