Hello, darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travel, where history meets sparkle and twirls become a way of life! This month, I'm whisking us away to the glamorous world of 1725, right here in the heart of Paris, where fashion and dance are intertwined like the most exquisite ribbons!
(It’s post number 772, darlings. Have you seen all my others at www.pink-tutu.com? We have some fabulous ones lined up! )
As you all know, my dear time-travelling tutu is my faithful companion. This month it’s a luscious pink satin, all ruffled and fluffy. Matching pink silk stockings and a cute little matching bow keep the whole look cohesive. You wouldn't believe how well my pink sparkle Shire horse, Magic Meg, is taking to these glamorous outings. Her pink saddle, made of the most sumptuous Italian leather, matches my ensemble perfectly. (I must add it's a tiny bit tricky keeping her gleaming golden hooves from picking up the Parisian street grime but I'm working on it!) Of course, we're off on another ballet adventure. But this time, it’s a real treat!
The date is the 4th of April, 1725. Our chariot arrives in Paris, buzzing with energy. You can almost feel the fashion revolution brewing in the air! This time, my rucksack on my back is full of excitement - it's just bursting with 18th century silk, lace, and perhaps a few sketches of dancing figures!
Let’s begin our dance tour! My ballet history notebook tells me we're in for a real treat. A charming and graceful Parisian theatre, the 'Théâtre de l'Opéra de Paris', has just opened its doors, and the ballet world is abuzz with whispers of "Les Fêtes galantes", a balletic spectacle so delightful, you just know it will make you twirl! It's more than just ballet; it's a world of romance, elegance, and delightful satire. The famous designer, Monsieur Watteau, is providing the backdrop – think delicate brushstrokes, billowing fabrics, and whimsical park scenes that take your breath away.
Oh! and did I tell you that the legendary Louis XIV himself, known as "The Sun King" because of his brilliance and grace (and, perhaps, a few elaborate sun-themed dances), used to be the main patron of the Paris Opera! He was a ballet enthusiast, and, just like our blog, his court was a dazzling spectacle of fashionable and passionate performers, exquisite dances, and glittering decor! How amazing it would have been to see the original Paris Opera – what an explosion of pink tulle and lavish designs! I imagine dancing a ballet in the halls of the royal court… oh, how I wish it were true!
The French style of ballet at this time was unique and enchanting. It was called 'la danse d’action' – this is all about a ballet that tells a story through dramatic poses, movements and graceful gestures. No matter the dance, we’re surrounded by beauty – graceful steps, dramatic poses, elegant costumes, and, of course, an air of refined elegance that can only be found in Parisian salons and Parisian stages.
My history tells me that this style of ballet, "la danse d’action," is being challenged by something new - what they're calling the 'Danse noble.' It’s elegant and aristocratic, full of sweeping leaps and grand jetés! A new breed of ballerinas, all dressed in long white skirts, with graceful necklines, flowing lines and delicate adornments are replacing the lighter dresses with puffed skirts and flowing headdresses of the previous centuries.
These ballerinas move with the grace of a willow branch in a gentle breeze and are oh-so-exquisite! They're leading a balletic revolution. The beauty and delicate finesse of this 'danse noble' are taking the dance world by storm. We're experiencing a dance explosion here in Paris! The French are moving, breathing and swaying to the music.
(Remember, darlings! It’s super-important to spread the word. Every day, you could see the beginning of something magical – whether it's fashion, a new dance style, or something that simply makes you smile. Look around! That's where our world changes.)
Today, it's my time to go and witness "Les Fêtes galantes," where Parisian style is woven into the fabric of dance. I wonder if there will be a pink tutu among the dancing silks! If not, I'm ready to make a statement! The French have always had a knack for elegance and artistry; now, let’s sprinkle a little bit of pink tutu magic over the capital! I’m going to visit the grand salon, shop for some new ribbons and dance a few steps in a Paris theatre! After all, Paris is a ballet city, full of life and history!
And what a treat this trip is!
Until next month, remember, life is a stage and we're all dancing. Put on your prettiest pink tutu, darlings, and let your joy shine!
Love and Twirls,
Emma xx
**(It’s all a ballet! Even this! Stay safe, be stylish, and let’s keep this beautiful dance of life going, one pink tutu step at a time. We'll be seeing you again next month at www.pink-tutu.com for our next dance adventure! And don't forget, our magic travels are financed by the wonder of our live ballet performances – keep an eye on your local theater for our next show!)
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