Welcome to Pink-Tutu.com, lovelies! It’s Emma here, your time-traveling tutu enthusiast, and I’m absolutely bursting with excitement about my latest adventure. This month, we're skipping back to the heart of the Enlightenment, 8th August, 1724. This period was all about intellectual exploration, revolutionary ideas, and, dare I say, some serious style! As we step into the past, I'll be sporting my trusty pink tutu (of course!), but with a touch of 18th-century elegance – a delicate lace trim and a smattering of sparkling rhinestones. Because even in the age of reason, a little sparkle can never hurt!
Before we delve into this dazzling historical voyage, I just want to remind you lovelies that you can always catch up on previous time travel escapades on my website. We've had some absolutely fabulous adventures, from the ancient Greek dances of Athens to the Renaissance era, where ballet really began to blossom. Oh, and if you're as in love with pink tutus as I am, you're in the right place! Don't forget to pop into my boutique after this blog for all the latest designs - your inner ballerina needs a new pink tutu! 💖
My Time Travel Horse: Magic Meg 🐴
Today, as usual, I'll be travelling with my faithful steed, Magic Meg. Did I tell you how much I love her? Meg is a pure pink shimmering Shire horse, all silky white mane and tail, and with the most captivating golden hooves. The locals here always have their jaws dropping when they see her, even though she’s been to so many time periods that she’s practically used to everything. She just snorts and trots along, keeping me safe and getting me there, pink tutu and all!
What Was On in the Ballet World in 1724?
This time period was incredibly interesting for the ballet world! Ballet was already becoming wildly popular in France, where Louis XIV was a huge patron of the art. You can almost imagine the court balls, the silks, and the dazzling performances! It was the golden age of the French Ballet, and as we stroll around 18th-century Paris, we can soak in the spirit of ballet as it developed into a full-fledged art form.
But Hold On - What's Happening On 8th August?
Unfortunately, this particular day is not filled with famous premieres or groundbreaking events. But you see, darling, that doesn't mean we won't have any fun! There's always a hidden history, a hidden story waiting to be discovered. And as we journey through the cobblestone streets of Paris, we'll be taking in the atmosphere of the day.
Imagine, lovely reader: the sun peeks over the horizon, and we’re off through the quaint Parisian streets. I feel the city awakening, and already I can hear music in the distance!
First stop? The Café Procope. Yes, that's right! The Café Procope, one of the most iconic coffeehouses in Paris, founded in 1686. Now, you might think it doesn't sound particularly glamorous, but wait till you see it! This café was practically the meeting spot for artists, thinkers, writers, and even monarchs, such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Denis Diderot, to mention just a few!
You know what I like to do? I’ve picked up a little bit of their French so I can try speaking to them - but don’t worry, dear readers, if my pronunciation isn’t perfect. At the Café Procope, I'll grab a croissant and coffee and listen in on their lively discussions. We're talking the latest plays, scientific discoveries, and, of course, ballet!
I’ll take notes, soaking up the atmosphere of this era – how their conversations are so passionate, how their beliefs are so revolutionary!
Now, It’s On to the Grand Palais des Tuileries 🎭
This spectacular palace, nestled amidst the lush gardens of the Tuileries, was THE place for entertainment. There would have been musical performances, theater plays, and yes, ballet! Imagine, darling: The delicate footwork, the expressive gestures, and the opulent costumes! It’s almost as though you could smell the history!
While I don’t have a magic pink tutu wardrobe for each century (yet!) I am determined to fill my rucksack with tales of past fashions, costumes, and stories from ballet history to add to my blog.
We might even catch a glimpse of the king’s own ballet company performing at the court.
Meeting Madame Camargo - A Dancing Diva!
Ah! Talking of dancers, I’m bursting to meet Madame Camargo. Did you know she was considered a rebellious figure in her time, and I just love that. Imagine: She wore shorter skirts, danced with much more expressive energy than the ballet etiquette of the day, and even revolutionized dance training!
Madame Camargo was a sensation in the world of Parisian dance and the center of controversy.
We're heading to a theater in search of this captivating dance sensation. Can you picture it, darling, watching as Madame Camargo’s dazzling talent fills the stage, even now!
It will be my opportunity to learn about her career, get her perspective on ballet in the age of enlightenment, and of course, we’ll talk about pink tutus! (Oh yes, darling, I do love a good pink tutu discussion.)
Oh! I Have The Most Wonderful Idea 🎉
It is time to give a bit of that pink tutu love to 1724 Paris! And, I want to create a sparkling dance show in the spirit of this period. Imagine, my sweet reader: An elaborate ballet set against the backdrop of the Café Procope with music played by a charming string quartet and I shall, of course, dance!
Just imagine the delighted gasps and applause when the crowd first lays eyes upon the pinkest tutu they have ever seen! It is a pink dream come true, darling! 💖
But remember, time travel is about respect and preservation, so I’ll tread carefully, observing traditions and enjoying the unique beauty of this era. I promise not to upset the time continuum or create too much chaos with my modern tutu flair. (Magic Meg can get rather spooked when things get a bit too frantic.)
Join Me Next Month, Darling!
Now, I must go and get dressed in my pinkest of pink tutus. This adventure is calling for some real glitter.
I will have more ballet history for you next month on my website: www.pink-tutu.com
Stay pink and glamorous,
Emma 🩰
