Post Number 565
Greetings from your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller! It's me, Emma, bringing you another delightful journey through the world of ballet history, this time landing us smack-bang in the heart of the year 1708, on the very first day, no less!
I must confess, my dear readers, I've been quite excited for this one. We're venturing into the realm of Baroque beauty and dramatic flourishes - perfect for my penchant for the flamboyant and grand. My favourite pink tutu is shimmering with anticipation, and Magic Meg, my majestic shire horse with a mane and tail the colour of freshly-fallen snow and golden hooves that sparkle like a thousand suns, is pawing the ground impatiently.
We're off! My leather rucksack, stuffed with shimmering sequins and lace trimmings from the era, is ready for its first foray into the 18th century. I just know there'll be something splendidly flamboyant tucked away in this time period's ballet fashion.
The world of ballet in 1708, you ask? Well, it was all about a good time! While formal ballet performances were still emerging, ballets in the salons and palaces of France and Italy were thriving! Imagine, my dears, an entire soirée dedicated to elegant movement, laughter, and enchanting music. Can you imagine having a personal ballerina dancing for you while you sip your tea? It's almost enough to make one wish we could travel back in time, don't you think?
What's more, we're smack-dab in the midst of an exciting development in ballet history - the first published ballet score! This marks a turning point for the genre, signifying its increasing importance as a structured art form. Imagine, my darlings, having the music recorded so perfectly, you could follow the choreography to a T. Just a few decades later, dancers would have those meticulously crafted ballets for them to master.
Speaking of choreography, if you ever happen to find yourself in Paris on the first of January in 1708, you can pop over to the theatre at the Palais Royal and witness "La Princesse d'Elide", a ballet with the captivatingly elegant steps and grand, elaborate sets typical of the time. It's a true visual spectacle, brimming with flamboyant flourishes and impressive theatrical flourishes. Think elaborate costumes, stunningly dramatic characters, and the intricate choreography showcasing the grace and power of the dancers.
Personally, I'm itching to see those lavish costumes! While I've got a splendid pink tutu on, I imagine the fashionable ladies of the court are bedecked in satins, laces, and maybe even a touch of glittering embellishments - just a little touch of something sparkly to elevate their performances, wouldn't you agree?
As we make our way through the streets, my senses are on high alert. What fashion gems might be hidden amongst the throngs of the aristocracy, the common folk, the merchants and their wares? A delicate piece of lace? A glittering jewel from a discarded necklace? Or perhaps a scrap of embroidered fabric that was once part of a grand dress?
I imagine the streets of London are filled with the hustle and bustle of merchants hawking their wares. There might be a milliner, just down the street, who has some elegant creations to show off. Maybe there's even a shop selling ballet shoes! They would have been a bit different from the shoes we wear now, though. Just think - there might even be a ballet shop selling silk and satin fabric, the perfect additions to my collection of luxurious fabrics!
Of course, no visit is complete without a delightful ballet performance! A few more clicks on Magic Meg's reins and we're magically whisked to the city's bustling theatre district. I picture myself gracefully gliding across the dance floor, maybe even twirling through the street with my pink tutu flowing behind me like a delicate pink cloud. Oh, what a spectacle that would be! I could be mistaken for a real lady of the court - just a little sparkle of the future peeking through!
Remember, my lovely readers, history is full of incredible stories waiting to be uncovered. It's filled with extraordinary people, incredible movements and captivating stories waiting for someone to shine a light on them. Let’s keep the love of ballet, fashion and our vibrant pink tutus burning bright, and explore these magical moments together. And never, ever forget, the beauty of the past, is a magnificent treasure waiting to be embraced!
Stay tuned for more exciting adventures through ballet history! And, remember, there's a pink tutu out there waiting for you - it might just take a little time travel to find it!
Until next month, Your eternally optimistic ballerina, Emma www.pink-tutu.com
