Hello lovelies! 💖 It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu enthusiast, ready to whisk you away on another dazzling ballet adventure through time. Buckle up, my dears, because this month we're travelling back to 10 October 1730!
Now, imagine a crisp autumn morning in London. The cobbled streets are bustling with life, the air alive with the clip-clop of horses' hooves and the chatter of merchants. A blush of pink against the grey brick buildings catches your eye. It's me, of course! Your favourite time-travelling ballerina, resplendent in my signature pink tutu, perched atop Magic Meg, my trusty steed – a stunning Shire horse with a dazzling pink mane, shimmering golden hooves, and a tail that looks like spun sugar.
My rucksack, filled with treasures and ballet stories from yesteryear, sits comfortably on my back, ready to welcome another trove of magical memories. As for Magic Meg, she sniffs the air, her velvety nostrils twitching, sensing the excitement of our latest expedition. Today's adventure promises a ballet spectacle!
Back in Time - A Peek Into 1730 BalletIt’s a thrilling experience to see how ballet has evolved over time, so stepping back into 1730 feels almost surreal. Ballet back then wasn't just dancing, darling – it was a true theatrical experience. Forget pointe shoes! The ballerinas of the time danced en pointe on shoes that looked like… well, imagine a dainty slipper, then give it a thick sole and a long, pointed toe.
These ‘dancing masters,’ as they were called, were truly versatile performers. Their movements were less about delicate leaps and pirouettes and more about grand gestures, dramatic expressions, and showcasing their athletic prowess. It was almost like ballet, drama, and a bit of opera all rolled into one.
Now, this specific date – October 10th, 1730 - is especially fascinating. A certain ballet called "La Forêt Noire" by Michel de La Barre was playing at the Opéra de Paris! Can you imagine, darling? A theatrical ballet in Paris! I would give my collection of pink tulle for a peek behind the curtain! Imagine the costumes, the elaborate sets, the music… pure magic.
More Than Just a Dance - The World of 1730 Ballet1730 was also a time of exciting change for ballet, and Paris was the hub. Imagine, darling, an opulent ball! People would be dressed in extravagant garments and enjoying the most delicious food, sipping delicate teacups. As for ballet, imagine a performance taking place amidst all the pomp and celebration! There's something magical about witnessing art bloom, don’t you think?
One of the most remarkable changes happening during this time was the transition of ballet from purely courtly entertainment to becoming a more professional art form. We’re talking professional dancers! No more just courtiers flailing about! Instead, dedicated performers, both men and women, were finally recognised and lauded for their skills and artistry! A big win for ballet, and a wonderful step forward for the entire dance community!
And as much as we love our ballet tutus, 1730 wasn’t exactly the age of fluffy pink, darling. Think silk, lace, embroidery – all in rich, sumptuous colours. Perhaps I’ll commission a new tutu in a gorgeous shade of emerald, just to remind myself of the sartorial flair of this era!
What’s A Girl To Do?Our trip to 1730 left me feeling truly inspired! I can’t wait to return with a fresh vision, maybe even design a new collection based on the dramatic flair and bold colours of the time.
If you want to see some amazing ballet yourself, why not check out your local theatre? I know many fantastic ballet companies around the globe, so you're sure to find something that catches your fancy. And while you're there, maybe consider sporting a pink tutu, just like me!
And don't forget to join me next month for another dazzling trip through time! Until then, keep shining bright and always remember – there’s a little ballerina in us all! 🩰
Stay tuned, my dears, and remember,
Always Pink,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
