Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels, your monthly dose of ballet history, fashion, and, of course, pink! I’m Emma, your resident time-travelling ballerina, and this month I’m taking you all the way back to the year 1719, to a time when the world of ballet was just starting to blossom!
As always, my trusty steed, Magic Meg – a pink sparkling shire with golden hooves, white mane, and tail, the most glamorous horse in the history of time travel – was ready to take us on our adventure. We were on our way to discover the delights of ballet in the 18th century!
It’s May 5th, 1719, and believe me, the fashion was divine! Ladies are sporting intricate, frilly gowns, bonnets adorned with ribbons and flowers, and all the finest jewels. The gents were looking dapper in their powdered wigs and lace cuffs – true gentlemen of the era! Now, I know what you're thinking… pink tutu? It’s all about the fabrics, ladies. The ladies were wearing silks, satins, and velvets, all the more opulent for being woven in the most magnificent shades of pink – a delightful nod to my favourite hue, and the perfect backdrop for my own pink tulle, I have to admit!
Speaking of tutus, 1719 was a period where ballet was undergoing a transformation, evolving from a courtly dance form to a more theatrical, full-bodied performance. You can see the echoes of this transition in the attire of the time! Ballet costumes began to incorporate longer, flowing skirts, intricate patterns, and bold colours, setting the stage for the ballet outfits we love today!
Now, what’s on in the ballet world on this particular day? Well, the hot ticket in 1719 would be the French ballet! The Parisian scene was thriving with exquisite performances, with a focus on ballets d’action, stories brought to life through dance and beautiful, expressive movement. This period marked the rise of star dancers, choreographers with incredible imagination, and innovative stage designs. It was a magical era of ballet beginnings.
One of the most fascinating events of the day is the premiere of a ballet called "Les Petits Riens" in Paris, literally "Triffles"! It was a collaboration of many dancers, all dressed in vibrant costumes, each telling a part of the story in dance and song. Imagine a whole cast wearing shades of pink tulle in their dazzling costumes – divine!
So, darling readers, don’t forget, the magic of ballet history is within our grasp! There's always something new to discover. I packed my rucksack with the latest snippets of ballet gossip and news for the world of pink-tutu.com - I'll be posting the stories soon. I want to spread the joy of ballet history far and wide, so everyone can see just how magnificent this incredible art form has always been!
See you next month! Until then, wear a pink tutu and spread the ballet love.
With love and twirls, Emma, The Pink Tutu Traveller.
A Few More Pinky Delights From 1719:
- The Royal Ballet was beginning to flourish at the Court of King George I. We’re not quite at Swan Lake and Giselle levels, darling, but it’s the beginnings of the ballet spectacle we love today! I’m just itching to put my own unique pink twist on a historical court performance - maybe a shimmering pink ballet in honour of the Queen?!
- Women were starting to take centre stage, no longer relegated to being just part of the backdrop. Ballerinas were now performing with more complexity, emotion, and talent. It was the start of their own ballet revolution! It's no wonder my ballet time travels include so many beautiful female figures. There’s so much inspiring me!
- The music scene was exploding, with beautiful operatic airs and enchanting string arrangements, setting the scene for the dance with delicate, emotive beauty. If you haven’t had a chance to immerse yourself in the classical scores, this is the perfect excuse! Let the music fill you with graceful wonder!
This is just a taste of what the world of ballet looked like in 1719. Don't be afraid to explore! Look for pink tutus, and dance with the stars of ballet history!
Oh, and just so you know, my dear readers, the pink tutu will forever be the most stylish and graceful fashion choice, regardless of the era. After all, a touch of pink is always a delightful reminder that ballet is meant to be a joyful and inspiring experience!
Until next month, darling!
