Hello lovelies, and welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travel! Itās your girl, Emma, back with another trip through the shimmering, swirling world of ballet history! Today, we're taking a graceful leap back to 3rd March, 1722, a date that wouldnāt have made the history books in the ballet world... at least not quite yet.
Now, as you all know, I'm absolutely obsessed with tutus, especially the pink ones! And this month, I've found a little gem to tell you about...
Tutu-ing the Past: An Early Pink Discovery
The weather here in Derbyshire has been simply dreadful this week. Itās got me dreaming of warm sunshine and long, luxurious walks through fields of lavenderā¦ And perhaps, just perhaps, a sprinkle of pink ballet tulle floating on the breeze!
Speaking of tulleā¦ during my jaunt back to 1722, I stumbled upon something rather fascinating!
My trusty steed, Magic Meg, was snorting with impatience ā sheās always eager to explore, you know. As we galloped through the cobblestone streets of a quaint English village, my eyes landed on a millinery shop tucked away on a quiet corner.
Now, I adore a good hat ā can you blame me? And my keen eye spotted a beautiful, frothy concoction in the window display. A veil! But not just any veil ā a veil crafted from what weād now call tulle! It was soft, gauzy, and a pale, delicate pink.
Naturally, I had to investigate! The milliner, a rather lovely old lady with twinkling eyes, explained that it was āfine netting,ā popular amongst the fashionable ladies. Though she had never heard the word ātulle,ā sheād used this material for veils and gowns for years! It felt so right!
So, I spent an hour, mesmerised by the milliner's fascinating tales of early textiles and fashions. She, too, loved pink and, Iām convinced, would have loved a tutu!
What Was The World Of Ballet Like in 1722?
Sadly, in 1722, the world of ballet wasnāt quite as we know it. But it was evolving, oh, it was evolving!
Ballet on a Big Stage:
Imagine it ā theatre, complete with intricate scenery, elaborate costumes, and some absolutely incredible performers! But instead of the elegant steps we're accustomed to, it was all about courtly dances, elaborate figures, and lots of theatricality. Imagine a swirling tapestry of grandeur, colour, and expression - with a touch of panache, perhaps? Itās all very exciting, just a little bit more "spectacular show" and less "refined steps" if you will!
Iād been reading all about these āSpectacular Ballsā - theatrical spectacles that were taking London and the court by storm! In 1719, a rather impressive dancer called Jean-Baptiste Lully had started performing his elaborate spectacle, and word had it the entire court was smitten with this extravagant affair.
I have a little note in my ballet journal from this journey. "These balls weren't called 'ballet', yet, but it's the germ of our favourite art form! We owe them a huge thank you for leading us toward that famous stage! And the costumes! Just exquisite." And sheās absolutely right! Think layers of silks, jewels sparkling, and a splash of vibrant colour - it was theatrical magic in action!
Learning and Fashion ā A Ballerina's Obsession:
These trips in the past arenāt all about ballet! Iām also a huge lover of history, art, fashion, and I must admit I love the thrill of the chase and learning about new places. Imagine my excitement at spotting a little antique shop on my trip! It was just bursting with beautiful little items, and a stack of old magazines on display! The vendor told me they were "penny dreadfuls" from the time - tales of adventure and romance for working folk, full of incredible imagery, too!
Sharing the Pink Love:
Oh, I love these trips back in time, they inspire my performances so much, and there is nothing better than sharing these discoveries with you! This week I am performing at The Theatre Royal in Derby in a brand new "French Revolution" themed ballet. The costumes are simply fabulous! Imagine the panache and spectacle, with a touch of French charm ā and a whole lot of pink tulle! It will be dazzling!
But there's nothing like experiencing the real deal, donāt you think? And, just maybe, on my next journey, Iāll catch a glimpse of this "Spectacular Ball." Perhaps in pink! Who knows?
Remember to subscribe to Pink Tutu Time Travel at www.pink-tutu.com. Every month, a new blog post and another chance to see the beautiful history of ballet and fashion!
Keep it pink, darling!
Love, Emma.
