Hello darlings, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet where all things pink and twirly are celebrated! This month, we’re skipping back to 1712, specifically to the 4th of April, for a peek into a very different world of ballet, one steeped in royalty and lavishness.
Now, as a Derbyshire lass, you can imagine how thrilled I was to find myself in the elegant grandeur of the French court! As Magic Meg (my shimmering pink shire horse, just to refresh your memory!) and I trotted through the cobbled streets of Paris, the smell of fresh pastries filled the air. Oh, the sheer volume of sugar! It would surely put a twinkle in anyone's eye, and definitely a prance in anyone's steps.
I could almost hear the dainty, clicking sounds of ladies' heeled shoes as they swished past, adorned with silks and satins in every colour imaginable. Of course, you know me and my preference for pink, so my attention was drawn immediately to a young noblewoman with a delicate pink ribbon adorning her elegant hair. Maybe one day, a delicate pink ribbon will grace my own mane, replacing my simple bun!
Ah, but that’s getting ahead of ourselves! This particular trip was less about the sartorial delights (although they were abundant!) and more about the ballet! This particular 4th of April, 1712, marked the first performance of La Princesse d’Elide. Can you imagine? A royal spectacle celebrating the beauty and grace of a princess! It's just my kind of soirée!
Although I was forbidden from joining the court for the performance (blame my rather conspicuous pink tutu), I managed to gain access to a rather well-placed balcony with an unobstructed view of the stage. It was an incredible sight. The intricate set, the richly costumed performers – all bathed in candlelight – it was truly an immersive experience. The steps themselves were captivating. Graceful, refined, yet with a touch of playful abandon.
It felt as though every step was a testament to the art itself, like an exquisite dance of history unfolding right before my very eyes! I was absolutely smitten with the use of intricate masks in the production. What an interesting touch, adding a sense of mystique and characterisation to the performance.
My dear Magic Meg couldn’t resist indulging in a sugary treat during our break from sightseeing, a piece of delicious gateau nestled amidst the hustle and bustle of the Parisian streets. I, however, found myself rather preoccupied with jotting down all sorts of fascinating tidbits from the court about the upcoming productions of Le Ballet de la Reine. The choreography and costumes sounded utterly breathtaking – we simply must see it, even if it takes a little more time-bending.
You can be sure, dearies, that this won’t be my last venture into the world of ballet’s historical beginnings. Next month, we shall explore even more fascinating tales from ballet’s illustrious past – tales of triumph, artistry, and a dash of shimmering pink, of course! Don’t forget to tune in on www.pink-tutu.com – you never know what pink delights await! Until then, twirl gracefully, stay fabulously pink, and always embrace your inner ballerina!
