#BalletHistory during 1704 06 June

Hello lovelies!

It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina blogger, Emma, here, and today we're jetting back in time again, all the way to 1704, June the 6th! My trusty time-traveling steed, Magic Meg (my sparkly pink shire horse with golden hooves - how dashing!) is ready for the adventure, her white mane and tail shimmering in the sunshine. I'm packed, rucksack brimming with pink ribbon and vintage ballet shoes, and I've already got my dazzling pink tutu on. Let's go!

Landing softly in the lush Derbyshire countryside, I'm greeted by a world that feels vastly different from my own. There's a charming calmness, the gentle tinkling of bells from passing carriages, and the fragrant scent of wildflowers wafting on the breeze. I wouldn't say it's completely devoid of dance, but it certainly isn't ballet as we know it!

While the form as we know it today hadn't fully evolved, dance was woven into life back in the early 1700s. Courtiers would engage in elegant, elaborate dances during royal gatherings and theatrical productions often incorporated elements of dance, showcasing the grace and beauty of the performers. But it's different. More grounded, with a heavier emphasis on grace and formality. There's less focus on pointe work, intricate footwork and a whirlwind of pirouettes.

But it is fascinating! I've always loved studying the roots of ballet, tracing its evolution from the intricate dances of the courts to the theatrical spectacles of today.

One of my favourite things about travelling through time is exploring the ballet scene in different periods. I'm not just obsessed with pink tutus and intricate steps; it's the artistry and emotion behind the performance that really speaks to my heart. Even without the pointe work, these 18th-century dancers would have had amazing stamina, dedication and a captivating stage presence. I wouldn't be surprised to learn they were just as fierce in their practice as ballet dancers today, putting their bodies through rigorous training to hone their skills!

This historical trip wasn't all about dances. I ventured into the vibrant city, London, a beehive of activity and energy! Stepping into The Theatre Royal Drury Lane, one of the most prestigious venues of its time, I was captivated by the grandness. Think grand chandeliers, intricately decorated walls, and the excitement of an eagerly awaiting crowd. They say that this theatre, already a prestigious one in its own right, witnessed some truly groundbreaking productions in its early years, and who knows, maybe a little dance crept onto those stages, perhaps adding a dash of beauty and spectacle to the stories being told.

Even back then, it's clear there was a huge passion for theatre, for storytelling, and maybe even for those first glimpses of what would become our beloved ballet! It fills me with an immense sense of appreciation, knowing that generations of dance enthusiasts before me have paved the way for the artistry we experience today.

A time-travelling ballerina's day wouldn't be complete without a spot of vintage shopping, right? And wouldn't you know it, a charming antique shop caught my eye just as I was strolling along a cobblestone street in London. Imagine my excitement when I stumbled upon a stunning collection of embroidered textiles and delicate lace, just the kind of inspiration I needed for my own tutu designs.

While pink isn't quite as prominent in 1704 fashion, I managed to find some exquisite pink silks and velvets - think blush pinks and rose shades, not my bright neon pinks but still a stunning colour palette. The silks are so soft and beautiful, perfect for my next creation. Maybe a 1704 inspired, ethereal pink tutu, with delicate floral embellishments and intricate beading. I already have so many ideas swirling around in my head, this is definitely going to be a special creation!

You know I just had to do some ballet research, and after exploring the museums and the fashion, it struck me just how vital these costumes would have been to a theatrical performance back then! The costumes, with their beautiful details and bold colour combinations, would have served as another layer of storytelling, and helped create the mood and the overall feel of the performance. That thought got me even more excited! The history and artistry woven into ballet goes so deep, I'm continually amazed by how these elements have evolved and transformed over centuries.

The costumes were truly opulent; velvet and brocades and exquisite embroidery – just imagine! Think the beauty of elaborate lace trim, dramatic ruffles, and gowns shimmering with jewels and jewels! I just need to add a hint of pink, my own unique stamp. I wonder what pink would look like against that elaborate velvet! I think we need to test it!

Magic Meg is pawing at the ground, ready to take us back to my own time. As I say goodbye to 1704, my heart swells with gratitude for the experience. I can't help but feel connected to those early dance enthusiasts, the ones who set the stage for the dance world as we know it today. They wouldn't have known it then, but their dedication and creativity laid the foundations for the artistry we experience in ballet now, in a world brimming with diverse styles, innovative choreography, and captivating stories.

Now, my next task is to put the inspiration I gleaned from my trip into practice. A 1704-inspired tutu design with hints of the grand opulence of that period and the bright, delicate pinks of today? A symphony of historical detail and modern flair!

And that's a wrap, lovelies. Until next time, I'm signing off, Emma, your pink tutu-wearing ballerina, on a mission to inspire every girl to put on a pink tutu! Don't forget to head over to www.pink-tutu.com and share your love for all things pink, sparkly and dance-worthy.

P.S. Don't forget to check out my latest tutu creations on my website, and if you ever need inspiration for a pink tutu, just give me a shout! And don't forget to wear pink!