Welcome, fellow ballet lovers, to post number 870 of Pink Tutu Time Travels! This month, weâre twirling back to the shimmering world of 1733. Yes, darlings, get your pink tutus ready because we're diving headfirst into a Parisian opera house! Buckle up, grab a spot of tea, and let's go on a journey!
It's always such a thrill to time travel! This month, I'm trotting on my darling steed, Magic Meg. Sheâs a true beauty, all gleaming pink with a mane and tail like spun moonlight and hooves of purest gold. It feels truly magical, sitting on her back and feeling the wind through my pink tutu as we glide through the ages.
I love picking out outfits for each historical escapade, and for this jaunt to Paris, I'm sporting a delicate, blush pink tutu with a flurry of champagne-hued ribbons cascading down my legs. I've matched it with a pearl-grey bodice, a whisper of silk, and, of course, my trusty leather rucksack â ready to collect ballet gems from this enchanting era.
Speaking of enchanting, just imagine it! 1733 Paris. The city itself is buzzing with creativity, and the theatre scene is vibrant and full of life! We're off to see The Royal Swedish Ballet's âAriadne on Naxosâ performed in the lavish setting of LâAcadĂ©mie Royale de Musique (you might recognise it better as the OpĂ©ra Garnier today!).
So what was ballet like back then?
While the "grand ballet" of the late 17th century with its elaborate mythological storylines and grand displays was still holding strong, a shift towards more dramatic expression and a touch of âmodernâ was beginning. Think fewer, shorter dances and more attention to a refined sense of individual movements. Imagine it as a ballet version of Downton Abbey - a world of elegance and manners, yet with subtle undercurrents of drama!
That doesnât mean the showmanship has been dropped entirely though. Marie SallĂ© - the darling of this period - was known for her passionate artistry and was one of the leading voices in advocating for a more dramatic form of ballet, showcasing her own captivating interpretations with each step. A bit like the dancing icons of today like Sylvie Guillem or Tamara Rojo, she paved the way for ballet to evolve.
What was amazing is that even back then, ballet performances were already a hot ticket and highly anticipated by everyone from Parisian royalty to the working class! They flocked to see these shows in their elaborately crafted costumes - the colours and opulence must have been breathtaking. Even the opera singers, who played an important part in these ballet productions, became stars. The fame of the cast â much like we see today!
So I'm excited! The music is playing as we make our way to the theatre. Magic Meg and I trot through cobbled streets and past lively shops overflowing with delicate fabrics and intricate accessories - imagine, the very fashion which inspired my tutu today!
What I love about the history of ballet is seeing how much it mirrors the life and fashion of the time period. Each era has its own story. I can't wait to see what ballet treasures await in the hushed majesty of that Parisian opera house!
Until next month, my dear ballet enthusiasts, remember - Pink Tutus, pink tutus everywhere!
Lots of Love,
Emma xoxo
* www.pink-tutu.com *
P.S. Don't forget to share your favourite pink tutu outfits on social media with the hashtag #PinkTutuTimeTravel â let's celebrate the pink and fabulousness of dance!
