Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina, back from another whirlwind journey through history! As always, my fabulous steed, Magic Meg (she's a pink-sparkling shire horse with the most glorious golden hooves and white mane - just imagine!), and I are bursting with stories and, of course, fabulous ballet fashion finds from our adventures.
This month, we found ourselves swirling back to the 11th of November in the year 1723! As I gracefully twirled into the cobbled streets of London, a chill swept in, announcing the approaching winter. Oh, the drama! ❄️
But the chill didn't deter me from seeking out all the ballet brilliance this time had to offer. London was a-buzz with artistic endeavours and, as ever, ballet was making its mark!
You wouldn't believe what I discovered at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, darling! A magnificent production of John Rich's "The Dragon of Wantley." Now, this wasn't your typical ballet - think elaborate costumes, colourful scenery, and theatrical effects that would make even today's productions envious! A little less balletic than the pieces we enjoy today, yes, but still oh so captivating.
There was so much history bubbling about! You see, John Rich wasn't just an entrepreneur; he was also a renowned dancer and choreographer himself, making a lasting impact on the development of British dance. I absolutely adored watching the audience, mesmerized by the colourful characters and dynamic performance. I could picture them swooning over the dancing, just as we do today! 💖
Speaking of costumes, oh my, they were magnificent! Long, flowing skirts with elaborate embellishments, bodices of rich fabrics with layers of lace and jewels... It was all so over-the-top! I simply had to have a memento of the era, and found a exquisite silk ribbon with tiny pearls – the perfect accessory for a truly historical dance outfit! I immediately added it to my growing collection in my trusty leather rucksack – the ultimate vintage ballerina’s essential, you know! 🎒
But my darling, the excitement doesn't stop there! In 1723, we also see the beginnings of a ballet sensation that would truly change the landscape of dance – the emergence of the ballet master. You see, before the likes of Pierre Beauchamp, dance wasn't about precise steps or carefully structured ballets. Imagine it – it was more a beautiful, chaotic dance expression! The arrival of ballet masters meant stricter structures, intricate steps, and the development of standardized moves, which led to the formation of ballets as we know them today.
Of course, with so much happening, I simply had to explore more of London's underbelly, even taking a walk through the cobbled streets in search of inspiration. And darling, it wasn't all about grand performances and history. As a passionate ballerina, I adore street-style ballet - a reminder that ballet lives beyond the confines of theatre walls. And who knows, maybe I saw a few budding ballet stars in their early days. Who can tell? But you can be sure my trusty camera captured the hidden artistry that lurked behind every corner! ✨
Speaking of my camera, you'll see the gorgeous fashion captures in my online gallery, available for all you sweethearts on www.pink-tutu.com! I promise to inspire all my sweethearts to find their inner pink tutu!
After all, ballet is about the love of dance, expression, and a bit of pink fluffiness - so be bold, darlings, wear a pink tutu! You never know who you might inspire on your own adventures. ✨
With a twirl and a smile,
Emma 🩰💖
P.S. You wouldn't believe how many amazing vintage pink tutu designs I found in 1723. Stay tuned for a whole post dedicated to that in a few months - it's sure to be a treat! 🎀✨
