Hello my darling darlings!
Welcome to Pink Tutu Travels, the blog where we dance through time!
I'm your ever-so-pink host, Emma, and I'm so excited to take you on a whirlwind journey back to the 3rd of March, 1717! This month marks the 675th blog post in my magical time-travelling odyssey - how thrilling! Every time I saddle up my majestic pink steed, Magic Meg, I get butterflies in my tummy and glitter in my hair (it happens to the best of us!).
As always, this month's adventure is fuelled by the sheer joy of ballet and, of course, the unwavering support of my incredible audiences. It's thanks to you wonderful people who pack out the theatre at each performance that I can continue to time travel in style, clad in my ever-so-fabulous pink tutu! The latest show? Well, my dearest readers, I've just finished a delightful rendition of Giselle with a fabulous twist! Can you imagine Giselle's tragic fate in an all-pink tutu and feathered headpiece? The critics were wild!
But let's hop on Magic Meg and travel back to the 18th century, shall we? It's an absolutely gorgeous day - crisp spring air and birds singing their sweet melodies. My rucksack is packed full of ballet books and trinkets from previous journeys (some have the most fascinating stories!) Magic Meg's pink mane ripples in the wind, and with a flick of her golden hooves, we're gone!
Parisian Panache: Ballet's Evolutionary Leap
Paris, the city of lights, is abuzz with artistic flair as we arrive on the 3rd of March. We find ourselves on the cobbled streets of the Palais Royal, surrounded by noblemen in powdered wigs and ladies in their opulent gowns.
Here in 1717, the world of ballet is already making a splash. Ballet master, Louis Pécour, is captivating audiences with new styles and graceful movements. This marks a transitional phase in ballet - a step towards the refined, elevated style we all know and adore today!
I imagine the theatres packed with enthusiastic spectators. Imagine the gasps and sighs as ballerinas glide across the stage, their graceful movements illuminated by candlelight.
As for me, I just had to have a peek! (Who can resist a little fashion reconnaissance?).
Imagine, my dears, the fashions of 1717. Panniers and corsets forming the foundation for flowing, intricately adorned gowns. There was certainly a theatrical element that preludes the elegance of our modern ballet costuming.
Finding Beauty in Every Era
I have to confess, finding inspiration everywhere I go is the best part of my time travel adventures. This year alone, I have found some breathtaking styles in my journeys - think the lavish embroidery on a ballet tutu from the 1920s or the revolutionary freedom of movement that the mid-century style presented. Every decade brings something new, and it's up to us to capture the essence and carry it forward.
Today, however, my heart is set on a different era. Back in Derbyshire, I have a very special collection of vintage ballet shoes which I carefully preserve in a cabinet - a sort of mini time capsule, if you will. One of these treasures dates back to the early 18th century.
It's a dainty slipper, constructed from leather with a delicate satin lining. I imagine the little dancer, with her dainty feet and bright eyes, who graced the stage in those shoes. Just thinking about it warms my heart, it's a privilege to hold such a piece of history. Every stitch, every tear speaks volumes about the artform we love so dearly.
The Magic of Sharing
You know what makes me happier than a new pink tutu? Sharing my experiences with the world! Every month, when I write these blogs, it's like opening up a window to a different time. It allows people to step into the stories of ballet's past, and it sparks joy, wonder, and sometimes even inspiration, I believe!
But you know, this blog is more than just me sharing my time travels. It's a community. A place where everyone, no matter their passion for ballet, can come together and celebrate the art. Whether you are a seasoned ballerina, a dance enthusiast or a curious reader who has never stepped into a ballet studio, my goal is simple. To share the wonder and beauty of ballet, to connect with fellow enthusiasts, and maybe even convince the world to embrace the joy of a pink tutu!
Now that I think about it, I've actually made quite a few converts in my time travels! I remember in the 1860s, I had a delightful encounter with a little boy in a Victorian garden. He told me he loved my pink tutu but felt it was "too feminine" for a boy to wear! We ended up having a lovely conversation about self expression and finding beauty in your own way.
I must say, he eventually agreed to try on a pink tutu! The boy later wrote me a heartfelt letter saying the tutu helped him realize that he wasn't constrained by the "norms" of fashion.
To my heart's content, it makes my day!
But as I always say, there's always something to learn from each era and everyone we encounter, whether it's fashion tips, dance lessons, or just a simple reminder that ballet's power transcends time.
So, next time you're looking for a little dose of magic, join me on Pink Tutu Travels! We'll explore the fascinating world of ballet, its rich history, and all the beautiful ways it has evolved over time. Who knows what treasures we'll uncover on our next adventure!
Until then, keep your toes tapping and your spirits bright.
Emma xoxo
(www.pink-tutu.com)
