Hello my lovely tutu-loving friends! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back with another thrilling journey through history! As always, my sparkly pink shire horse, Magic Meg, is pawing impatiently in the stables, eager to whisk me away to another fascinating ballet era.
This month, we’re taking a leap back to November 11th, 1708 – a time when powdered wigs, panniers, and elaborate costumes ruled the fashion scene. And, just imagine, my pink tutu would be absolutely stunning against this backdrop! 😍
I’ve packed my trusty leather rucksack – always with a pocket for a new ballet book or historical tidbit! - and am ready for some historical ballet adventures.
Ballet on the World Stage in 1708
While we’re all obsessed with tutu trends now, the world of ballet in 1708 was rather different! Ballet was in its infancy, really. We’re talking elegant, courtly dance with roots in the royal courts of France. Think elegant minuet-like steps, ornate costumes, and theatrical flourishes rather than the powerhouse leaps and dramatic storytelling we know and love today.
I must say, my heart still flutters just thinking about those beautifully embroidered court gowns paired with elegant wigs. How incredibly romantic!
Our 1708 Ballet Stop: The Parisian Stage
Magic Meg’s hooves beat a rhythm as we trot through the cobbled streets of Paris – ah, the city of romance, even in 1708! The Palais-Royal theatre is buzzing with anticipation as the renowned choreographer, Jean-Baptiste Lully, unveils his latest masterpiece.
A Royal Courtly Affair
Imagine my delight, darling readers, when we slip into the heart of the theatre. Lully’s opera-ballets, which he called “tragedies en musique”, are a must-see. Filled with drama, music, and, of course, impressive dancing, they are a testament to the emerging artistic grandeur of the French ballet scene.
You can almost picture the elegant gentlemen in their knee-length breeches, lace cuffs, and ruffled shirts bowing to the ladies in their silk gowns, the ladies curtseying gracefully in return. It's a spectacle of colours and elegance! And yes, there are some delightful dance scenes too - imagine my pink tutu nestled amidst the silken gowns!
A Whiff of History (and Perhaps a Cake?)
Later, I visit a confectioner, hoping to snatch a tasty piece of a pastry shaped like a tiny shoe! The shop smells of almond paste, sugar, and freshly brewed coffee – heavenly! And, my readers, I must tell you, those ladies had such exquisite manners! Even their hats, covered in elaborate feathers and jewels, never interfered with their gracious movements.
Ballet Beyond the Court: Learning to Fly
Of course, I couldn't resist checking out a dance school in Paris! Think rhythmic footwork and a strict regimen for aspiring dancers - very different from my contemporary ballet classes with my best friends back in Derbyshire.
But here’s something really interesting! While the formal training for dancers is still a bit… well… “refined” compared to the powerhouses we know today, dancers in the French court were known for their ability to dance en pointe. Yes, en pointe! Just imagine – graceful leaps and delicate movements performed on the tips of their toes. How romantic!
Bringing the 1708 Vibe Home: My Pink Tutu Transformation
Back in my little corner of Derbyshire, my pink tutu has never been so inspired! My design notebook is overflowing with sketches for the latest pink tutu – it's going to be inspired by those 1708 Parisian dancers – graceful and delicate but with a touch of dramatic flair. Think ribbons, shimmering beads, and maybe even a sprinkle of hand-sewn miniature flowers – what do you think, darlings?
Oh, and my inspiration doesn't stop with the fashion! I've discovered that my old vinyl record player is the perfect companion for waltzes and minuets – just imagine my pink tutu twirling under the antique chandelier in my living room, a whirlwind of history and fashion!
Remember, darlings, this journey is just a tiny glimpse into the enchanting world of 18th-century ballet. There are so many fascinating stories yet to be discovered! Until next month, keep twirling, keep dreaming, and most importantly, keep spreading the love for all things pink!
Don’t forget to check out my next pink tutu blog post at www.pink-tutu.com on the first of December. And remember, a world filled with pink tutus is a happier world! 💕💖🩰✨
