Hello, my dearest Tutu Twirlers!
Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your one-stop shop for all things ballet, time travel, and pink tutus! This month, I'm whisking us away to December 12th, 1732, for a fascinating peek into the world of ballet just before the Enlightenment. Get ready, darlings, because it's a time of elegance, refinement, and some unexpected twists!
My trusty steed, Magic Meg, whinnied excitedly as we landed in a quaint little square in Paris. She is such a darling! Imagine, a sparkling pink Shire horse with a mane and tail like spun silk, golden hooves that sparkle like champagne bubbles, and a heart as big as the Palais Garnier itself! (That's where I usually start my Parisian adventures, but today, a different stage beckons).
With my trusty leather rucksack on my back, ready to collect stories and treasures from the 18th century, I began to take in the sights. The cobbled streets buzzed with activity – people rushing about in their elegant finery, shops showcasing beautiful wares, the faint scent of pastry in the air. You can imagine I was giddy with excitement, my pink tulle tutu swirling with each step I took!
The Dancing Delights of 1732:
Back in those days, ballet wasn't just a stage spectacle. It was part of court life, an expression of power and elegance. I can only imagine how breathtaking it must have been to watch a ballet performance within the grand halls of the Palace of Versailles, or in the opulent Opera House in Paris.
1732 was a crucial year for the ballet world. Choreography was evolving – away from the heavy emphasis on story and towards a greater focus on virtuosity. The graceful steps and delicate movements we know and love today were slowly taking root!
However, in this period, women weren't just confined to the stage. They danced with grace and poise in balls, banquets, and social events, expressing themselves with an elegant vocabulary of movements. They weren't mere spectators; they were active participants in the dance of life, just like us!
Fashion Fun and Fancies:
Speaking of fashion, darlings! The ladies in this period certainly knew how to make a grand entrance. Think exquisite silks, satin, lace, and a splash of bright colours, with panniers creating wide, bell-shaped skirts, lending an almost ethereal air. Their coiffures were no less remarkable - elaborate creations of braids, curls, and jewels. Imagine the effort of creating those magnificent hairdos!
I know exactly what I will add to my Pink Tutu Fashion Collection from this trip. I must get my hands on a beautifully detailed brocade bodice and matching skirt to take home, perhaps paired with a velvet cloak for those cool nights. And, oh! I just can't wait to browse the hair embellishments - think pearl combs and silk flowers to adorn the elaborate wigs of the era!
Time Travel Treats:
Of course, no time travel trip is complete without sampling the local treats. The aroma of freshly baked croissants and baguettes led me straight to a quaint boulangerie, where I savored a delicious slice of buttery brioche – so rich and sweet! This, my dear Tutu Twirlers, is the very essence of French pâtisserie! I will have to get a cookbook and learn some of these recipes to bring this fabulous era to my kitchen.
From Versailles to My World
The world of 1732 might seem so different from our own, yet its impact on ballet is undeniable. We wouldn’t be able to experience the intricate ballet techniques, the graceful choreography, and the breathtaking costuming of today without the legacy of those pioneers who took the first steps, who dared to dream, who pushed the boundaries of this art form.
So, as I make my way back home with Magic Meg, carrying my newly acquired 18th-century stories in my rucksack, I find myself thinking about how powerful ballet can be - not just as a spectacle, but as a link between generations, connecting us all with a shared love for artistry and movement.
Remember, darling Tutu Twirlers, life is a dance, and it's best to embrace it with a smile, a graceful twirl, and, of course, a beautiful pink tutu!
Until next time, happy dancing!
Love,
Emma
Don’t forget to follow my time travels!
- Join my online community, the Tutu Twirlers, at www.pink-tutu.com.
- Stay connected on all the latest ballet happenings by following my Instagram @PinkTutuEmma.
- Remember, life is a dance! Embrace every moment with a twirl and a smile.
