Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet where pink tutus reign supreme, and history comes alive through the magical steps of ballet! This month, Magic Meg and I are taking a trip back to 1713, a date etched in ballet history as the year of a very special premiere - and what a journey it's been!
My vintage-inspired, hot pink tutu twirled like a sugarplum in the breeze as we galloped across the centuries on Magic Meg's shimmering back. The pink-and-gold tapestry on her flanks glowed, echoing the shimmer of my sequins. She is, of course, a true pink princess of a horse – all golden hooves, flowing white mane, and sparkling pink coat.
Today's journey has taken us to a bustling London, a world of elegant squares, cobbled streets, and gentlemen in powdered wigs. As I stepped off Magic Meg, I couldn't help but feel the energy of this vibrant city pulse around me. This was the era of Queen Anne, of grand balls, and of a blossoming artistic world. It was a perfect time to experience a ballet performance - for 1713 saw the world premiere of one of the most significant ballets in history: The Loves of Mars and Venus!
Now, you might be thinking: ballets in 1713? How did they even exist? Well, darlings, the early forms of ballet, much like tutus, evolved gradually. You'd be surprised how much ballet there was in those days! They might have looked a bit different, with much less tutus and a touch more of a grand operatic air. But ballet, with its grace, its expression, its story-telling power, existed, captivating audiences throughout Europe.
In this era, The Loves of Mars and Venus, created by the famous dancer-choreographer Giovanni Gallini, graced the stages of London's Lincoln's Inn Fields Theatre. This magnificent piece, drawing inspiration from Greek mythology, showcased the very best of theatrical ballet in the era. It featured dance, song, elaborate costumes (perhaps some feathers and some hints of tutu-ness, though not exactly the kind we know and love!) and, importantly, captivating stories. It was about passion, power, and, of course, love! The audiences loved it, and it was one of the early milestones that brought ballet into the limelight as an art form for the people.
Now, before I embark on a long philosophical rant about ballet's importance (I get carried away!), let me tell you what else my rucksack and I found in 1713 London. I was lucky enough to visit a few delightful milliners – those lovely ladies who make such fabulous hats, veils, and those elegant hairpieces for ladies. It was almost tempting to buy a whole wardrobe of delightful trinkets for my own collection, but I must hold back for now! The fabric they used - so delicate! And they showed me such beautiful silks, with shimmering ribbons that caught the light, a vision of pink glory, oh how they'd look with a tutu! And what do you think would have happened had I taken a vintage pink tutu on this journey?! Oh, the scandal! But such fun!
Speaking of scandal, imagine me in a blush pink tutu with a jaunty white hat on walking down those cobbled streets of London, oh the whispers, the curious gazes. Imagine the gentlemen, dressed in their powdered wigs and finely crafted suits, pausing their conversations, looking at the pink whirlwind I'd be. Oh, I wouldn’t mind that! It'd certainly make an impact.
But my darlings, let me tell you, even back then, fashion was a vital part of life – even more so when it came to the grand performances at the opera. The ladies adorned themselves in rich fabrics, adorned with jewels and laces, creating a spectacular tableau of color. And even the gentlemen would flaunt their silk cravats, a little splash of vibrant color and elegance.
My journey back to 1713 brought a deep appreciation for the art of ballet, not only as a captivating performance, but also as a glimpse into the world of fashion, history, and even politics (can you imagine trying to get that many powdered wigs perfectly styled before the ballet began?) I was blown away by the artistry and the sheer effort put into bringing such a dazzling experience to the people. It was like time traveling back to a glamorous opera performance with an even more intriguing side story - the history of ballet itself.
So my darlings, keep an eye on this space - next month, I will delve into the beautiful world of ballerinas in the early 1800s! There’s much to explore, new adventures to embark on, and a lot more pink to be found. Remember: the magic of pink, ballet, and a splash of historical magic is just a horse-powered time jump away.
Until then, may your steps be light and your tutus ever so pink!
Emma xo
P.S. Don't forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com!
