Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your very own pink-tutu clad time traveller, back from a simply divine trip through the ages! As always, I'm itching to share with you my latest adventure – but let's start with my trusty steed, Magic Meg. She truly is a marvel. Just picturing her - all shimmering pink, with those glorious golden hooves, she’s truly the perfect partner for any ballerina who needs a dash of sparkle.
This month, we've travelled back to 1724, a year bursting with ballet delights! I swear, this trip just proves that ballet truly is a universal language – we're dancing together across the ages.
My journey started in the bustling, cosmopolitan city of London, just a stone's throw from where the great John Weaver was performing! I swear, darlings, that man was a true visionary. Not only a gifted choreographer but also a writer and theorist. In 1721, he penned "An Essay Towards the History of Dancing." You bet your bottom dollar that I snagged myself a copy – the historical treasure trove you wouldn't believe!
That night, I was swept away by Weaver's "The Loves of Mars and Venus," a ballet so captivating, it truly had me spellbound! I even managed to find a beautiful embroidered program for my collection - just look at the craftsmanship, simply stunning.
From London, it was a quick jaunt to Paris! How absolutely glorious to see that city in its vibrant, early 18th-century splendour. Paris was *the beating heart of ballet back then, and let me tell you, there wasn't a single tutu on the streets… well, except for mine! *
You simply had to be at the Opera National de Paris to see a true star of the time, *Marie Sallé, dancing her heart out. She was, I have to say, utterly mesmerizing. Her innovative style was such a departure from the strict and rigid movements of earlier days! *
And wouldn't you know it, I snagged a picture of Sallé for my collection! (A sneak peak of the picture in a coming post!) This, darlings, is a piece of pure history.
Let me tell you, I had such fun! Watching those **dancers twirling, leaping, and embodying those emotions, it was simply glorious. But ballet wasn't just confined to theatres back then, you know.
In my wanderings, I discovered the Académie Royale de Danse. Talk about historical inspiration. This place wasn't just for performers; it was where dancers learned the art of storytelling through movement, it was a centre of learning and creativity. This really brought it home for me - the pure passion and commitment to the art that shone through in every era.
And let's not forget the music! I heard Handel’s operas played at Covent Garden, just like audiences have for hundreds of years – truly breathtaking! I felt myself transported to that magical time – the laughter, the cheers, the music... It was truly electrifying.
In the world of ballet fashion… oh my goodness! Think graceful ribbons, lace bodices, and shimmering silks. Just like modern dancers, the performers of that time were masters of elegance, making each move look effortlessly beautiful. It was all about grace, lightness, and, dare I say it, PINK! It’s a joy to think that the power of fashion, those vibrant colours and graceful lines, have connected us across centuries.
And now for a bit of fun: Did you know that the very first ballet was performed on July 7th, 1571, in honour of Catherine de Medici's birthday? Imagine, darlings, the history you’ve missed out on!
Of course, I had to treat myself to some ballet shopping during my adventure. A lovely pair of white satin ballet slippers with exquisite embroidery in the heart of London's fashion district. These will make a delightful addition to my ballet shoes collection, along with a hand-painted wooden fan! How chic.
And remember, my loves, every dance is a story, and every step we take can be a leap through time. So don’t forget to practice! Go forth, twirl like the stars, and let your inner ballerina shine bright. And for heaven’s sake, never forget the power of a good pink tutu.
Until next time!
Emma
Psst! My next post? It's going to be about an amazing discovery in Vienna! Just a tiny clue… there are secret boxes and hidden scrolls! Until then, don’t forget to pop by my online store for fabulous tutu creations at www.pink-tutu.com!
