Hello darling tutu enthusiasts! Emma here, your favourite Derbyshire pink-tutu-clad time traveller, back with another thrilling tale of ballet history. It's the 3rd of March, 1706, and let me tell you, the world of ballet is already buzzing!
This month, I decided to pop over to Paris, you see, to witness something truly revolutionary - the very first ballet d'action! That's right, my lovelies, we're talking the genesis of a new ballet form, the forerunner to our beloved narrative ballets today. The ballet in question, “L’Amour vainqueur,” was created by the influential choreographer Pierre Beauchamp, the man who laid down the first steps to ballet technique that would shape the future. Talk about momentous!
It's amazing to see how this period - the beginning of the 18th century - was all about moving beyond the formality of courtly dances and exploring the narrative power of ballet. It was a pivotal time for our beloved art form, the foundations for modern storytelling on stage being laid right there in Paris!
I arrived on the back of my gorgeous Magic Meg, our shiny, pink sparkling shire horse with the golden hooves. You wouldn't believe the fuss this dazzling mare causes. Everyone is agog, asking what her story is and whether she comes with a sparkly pink tutu to match. Oh, you'd love Meg - she has this adorable pink ribbon woven into her white mane. I find myself needing to answer endless questions about her. People just can't get over her loveliness!
I just had to wear a vibrant magenta tutu for the occasion - nothing less would do! It was such a whirlwind, flitting around Paris - my pink tulle creating a delightful ripple of energy. The Parisian women had an ethereal, flowing charm about them, like graceful ballet dancers themselves. Oh, I adored their beautiful rococo gowns, with the swathes of fabric flowing so elegantly. I couldn’t resist taking some ideas back to my current wardrobe, so look out for my next ‘Pink Tutu Fashion’ blog post, because I have some truly delightful additions coming your way!
Now, you know I'm obsessed with shoes, so of course I had to pop into one of those little artisan workshops on Rue Saint-Denis. My goodness, I’ve found myself the most exquisite ballet slippers – satin, pointed toes with exquisite silk ribbon bows! It’s like something out of a dream. They just had to go straight into my ballet rucksack! My leather backpack is already filled with amazing little treasures, and it’s not even half full!
As soon as I reached the Palais Royal, I could tell this performance was something special. The elegant stage design with its sweeping, rococo décor just added to the whole dramatic flair of the event. The audience was mesmerised as "L'Amour Vainqueur" unfolded, the dancers effortlessly weaving narratives of love and desire through intricate steps and passionate expressions. My favourite bit? The stunning portrayal of the goddess Venus, graceful and majestic in her silvery dress and diaphanous shawl. Oh darling, to see such graceful, lyrical movement up close… pure magic!
I spent the entire time taking notes and sketching away in my leather notebook – I simply must document every detail for you! Oh, and I’m planning to re-create some of those divine steps and movements, perhaps even with a contemporary twist, for my next dance class.
After the performance, I took Meg for a stroll down the Seine, stopping to admire the majestic Tuileries Garden, a true picture of beauty in springtime. Paris just makes my heart sing with delight - I just love the way this beautiful city brings its artistic beauty to life!
Oh, speaking of beautiful things, I'm just starting to gather the information for my next post – all about the fascinating history of tutus, how they evolved over time and why I, Emma, am devoted to this most darling of garments. Stay tuned, you don't want to miss this! You can find the post, along with loads of exciting blog entries, all at www.pink-tutu.com, so keep those tutus spinning!
Remember, darlings, you can never have too much pink!
With love and twirls, Emma xx
