Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, back with another enthralling tale from the annals of ballet history! This month, we're hopping aboard Magic Meg and galloping back to the year 1713, specifically to the 11th of November.
As always, I'm bursting to share the wonders I found in this historical journey, but before I delve into the heart of ballet in 1713, let's have a little peek at what's been captivating the world of dance this very month.
Dancing Divas of the Present Day
The Royal Opera House, my darling London haunt, has a captivating bill featuring "Giselle", the ethereal tale of love and betrayal. There's also "La Bayadere" for the drama-lovers out there, a ballet overflowing with beautiful sets and costumes. Of course, I wouldn't miss "Swan Lake" – it's simply a classic! I am particularly excited for the new choreography and a fantastic new production featuring a stunning black swan costume that, shall we say, perfectly matches my pink tutu. It's the colour contrasts that really elevate a look, isn't it?
Speaking of contrasts, I recently stumbled across an absolutely fabulous vintage tutu in a little shop tucked away in Notting Hill. It's a soft pink silk, absolutely perfectly preserved, and the design is so elegant. It's going to be the star of my next ballet performance! After all, a good tutu is like a fabulous piece of jewellery, it adds that touch of sparkle to every performance.
Back to 1713!
Now, on to our journey! As you know, Magic Meg has a special connection to historical times, and November 11th, 1713 was no exception. We found ourselves in the bustling heart of London, a far cry from the peaceful pastures of my Derbyshire home. The city was awash with carriages, merchants hawking their wares, and street performers adding a touch of theatricality to the scene.
Now, in this era, ballet was very different from the graceful forms we know and love today. It was primarily entertainment in court, and often took place in the luxurious halls of noble households. I wouldn't mind seeing what went on inside those majestic houses. One can only imagine the intricate costumes, the sparkling gowns, the grand waltzes!
However, the real excitement came from discovering the burgeoning influence of French ballet in England. This era saw a growing popularity for ballet's more elegant style, moving away from the earlier, heavier forms of entertainment. The impact of this change is palpable, even after all this time!
In 1713, one could even find the first signs of ballet school development. That's right, the seeds of formal training were starting to be sown, giving birth to the discipline and artistic elegance we associate with ballet today. Imagine, if you will, young ladies learning the intricate steps and graceful movements that would later define the ballet world.
A Ballet Lover’s Wish List
As I explore the fascinating past, my ballerina spirit can't help but daydream! My heart yearns for the beautiful costumes of that era. Think exquisite fabrics, sparkling jewellery, and designs as elaborate as the most fabulous couture! I just imagine waltzing in a flowing gown, sparkling with a thousand tiny diamonds, my pink tutu peeking out beneath the delicate fabric. Sigh.
The dance performances themselves must have been equally dazzling! Think swirling silks, a touch of pantomime, and delicate, almost weightless movements. Now wouldn't that be a ballet experience to remember?
A Treasure from 1713
But, remember my dear readers, this trip wasn't just about the grand ballrooms and the intricate costumes. It's always about finding that special treasure, that hidden story, that will connect me with the ballet world's rich heritage.
In a dusty old book shop, nestled amongst forgotten volumes, I stumbled upon a tiny handwritten pamphlet, its pages brittle with age. This gem chronicled the performances of a Parisian ballet troupe, complete with illustrations of costumes and descriptions of the choreography. I knew this was the one for my ballet treasure trove back home, destined to become part of my collection, each piece whispering tales of dance across time.
Don't forget to join me on my next time-travelling adventure!
Until next time, darling readers, keep dancing and dreaming, and remember – a pink tutu can take you anywhere!
Visit www.pink-tutu.com for more fascinating insights into the world of ballet.
Stay radiant!
Emma
