Hello, my lovely Tutu Twirlers! Welcome back to my blog, www.pink-tutu.com, where every month, I, your very own Emma from Derbyshire, take a magical journey through time on the back of my sparkling shire horse, Magic Meg.
This month, we're waltzing back to the year 1717, to a time when elegance was king and Parisian dance halls were abuzz with excitement. Imagine my surprise when, amidst the cobblestones and horse-drawn carriages, I stumbled upon a charming little theater in the heart of Paris. The name? Théâtre Italien!
Now, you see, 1717 was a momentous year for ballet. It was the very year the Comédie-Italienne – a group of Italian performers renowned for their comedic acting and their spirited dances – officially landed in Paris. Their arrival sent ripples through the city, sparking a renewed passion for the art of ballet and adding a touch of Italian flair to the already opulent French court.
Stepping into the theatre, I was swept away by the atmosphere. The scent of perfume mingled with the soft strum of strings, and a murmur of excited conversation filled the air. Glimmering chandeliers cast a golden glow over the elegantly dressed audience, each a testament to the sophistication of the era.
And then, the show began. I was mesmerized. The performers, dressed in shimmering silks and intricate headdresses, moved with a captivating grace and fluidity. The dances were a whirlwind of joyous energy and intricate steps, each a perfect blend of technical skill and theatrical flourish. I felt a thrill run through me, a deep connection with the dancers' passion for their craft.
One dancer, with his sparkling tights and intricate footwork, caught my eye. He embodied the energy and grace of the Italian style. My bag of vintage ballet finds is overflowing with sketches from the era - oh, the elegance! The sheer exuberance in those sketches just takes me back, right to the heart of this vibrant moment in ballet history!
As the final curtain fell, applause rippled through the theatre. I felt a sense of contentment, having witnessed a piece of ballet history in its most authentic setting. It was a truly magical night, and a testament to the timeless appeal of ballet.
The journey back to my own time was filled with quiet reflections on the evening's performance. I couldn't help but feel a connection to those early ballet dancers, those pioneers who paved the way for the artistry we cherish today.
Of course, after such a glorious journey, no visit to 1717 would be complete without a touch of fashionable exploration. I must tell you, the clothing! Just exquisite. The ladies, dressed in luxurious gowns and elaborately styled wigs, added a touch of theatrical charm to the everyday. A pink satin coat, a feathered hat, perhaps some frilled ruffles for a dash of drama… ah, my dreams were already swirling!
This month's challenge for you lovely Tutu Twirlers, is to incorporate a touch of Parisian flair into your dance routine. Let's bring some of that 1717 energy to our own ballet classes and performances! Add a few graceful turns, a touch of French flair to your movements – and don’t forget to share your performances with me!
Remember, the world of ballet is brimming with stories just waiting to be discovered, and together, we can embrace its history, appreciate its present, and imagine its exciting future. Until next time, may your tutus twirl gracefully, and keep the sparkle in your steps!
With love,
Emma
Bonus Bits from 1717:Fashion Focus: This period was a whirlwind of extravagance! Think of towering wigs, elaborate hats, and exquisite gowns with a symphony of ruffles and ribbons. Don't forget the powder! (Remember to stay far, far away from horses if you try this out!)
Ballet Blast: Alongside the Comédie-Italienne, Paris was witnessing the growth of the Royal Academy of Dance. This burgeoning school of ballet was crafting its own unique style, merging the Italian flair with the refined French courtly etiquette.
Magical Meg Corner: My dear Magic Meg! What an experience she’s had this time. We were actually stopped by a group of street performers who thought her shimmering hooves were quite the magical feat! A real-life fairy tale come to life.
Don't forget, my fellow Tutu Twirlers, keep those ballet dreams twirling! You can find all this month's behind-the-scenes snaps, and more, on the Pink-Tutu website. Now go out there, twirl with a smile, and remember, life is always more magical in a pink tutu!
