Hello darling tutu-lovers! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, back with another amazing adventure from the archives of ballet history! This month, we're stepping back in time to a very special date: February 2nd, 1735.
Now, before we dive into the swirling world of 18th-century ballet, let's get a little giddy about my fabulous mode of transport! Magic Meg, my trusty pink-sparkling shire horse, with golden hooves and a flowing white mane and tail, was absolutely gleaming as we galloped through time. She loves a good adventure just as much as I do! We've been hopping about through time since I was just a little girl, gathering all the stories and treasures from ballet's glorious past, tucked safely in my pink leather rucksack. It's packed with amazing finds from every era, like ballet shoes, dance sketches, and even a feather boa from the 1920s (it's totally fabulous!).
So, where did our journey take us this time? Let's just say, dear reader, we found ourselves right smack-dab in the midst of 18th century London, the centre of the ballet universe! This time, however, it wasn't about elegant pirouettes or graceful arabesques - the year 1735 marked a turning point for the ballet world. We're talking revolution! The stage was set, literally, for a change that would influence dance history for years to come.
The Ballet Revolution: Where Italian Steps Took Centre Stage
The early 18th century was a fascinating time for ballet. Whilst France had always been considered the cradle of this beautiful art, Italy had been quietly brewing up a revolution of their own. Italian ballet masters were busy crafting their own version of dance, filled with complex, athletic steps and technical prowess. The French masters, although very elegant in their own right, were becoming increasingly concerned. It wasn't the choreography, mind you, that had them sweating. The French saw the Italian emphasis on intricate footwork and athleticism as 'unsuitable for their courtly ballets.' They considered it gauche! Can you imagine, dear readers? Un-suitable!
Our visit coincided with the very first arrival of Italian dance master, Francesco Bartolomeo Conti (who, by the way, took the French stage name 'M. le Signor Conti', because it sounds so much more elegant, don't you think?)
Now, let's imagine, for a moment, that we're seated in London's famous theatre, Covent Garden, where Conti would be showcasing his skills just a few years later in 1736. The atmosphere is electrifying! Imagine the anticipation buzzing around you, as the velvet curtains rise. The lights go up and Conti takes centre stage in all his glory, his exquisite form a beacon against the darkness. The French had long admired Conti's prowess and they'd finally succumbed to his Italian magic. The world of ballet, dear readers, was changing as we knew it. Conti would ultimately play a huge role in bringing the French and Italians closer. He combined both styles, creating a beautiful union that truly became the foundations for what we call ballet today.
The year 1735 marks not just a change in ballet, it marks a period of great innovation and new creative exploration. It reminds us that ballet has always evolved. It wasn't about sticking to rigid conventions - but always striving for more! And we can see it in everything from the shoes to the choreography. It’s a time of extraordinary, captivating dance, full of passion and dramatic flair!
Let's talk outfits: Imagine our delight, dear readers, as we found ourselves amidst the bustling streets of London. We could practically feel the history radiating through the cobble stones! We even had a go at one of the extremely fashionable pastimes – 'shopping!' I had to make the most of our adventure in this period - after all, it was the birthplace of ballet in the English language!
Fashion trends: An Ode to Lace and Pomp
It's time for a little sartorial journey. The women in 1735 London had incredible outfits, darling. We're talking silk brocades, velvet jackets, and oh my, the hats! Huge, feathered, majestic hats, the kind of statement you'd need a dedicated butler to help you carry. They all looked amazing! The beauty of it, was that despite the fashion craze for excess - everyone, from the King and Queen to the ordinary ladies, still seemed to appreciate graceful, elegant dancing and artistry! It was truly an inspiration to witness that these grand figures were interested in ballet and the beautiful art.
I did my own bit of shopping, finding some of the most divine fabric remnants for my collection (you wouldn't believe how much fun it is to imagine creating a beautiful dress out of scraps from 18th century Paris!). There's a definite trend towards soft pastel colours and delicate patterns, which perfectly complements the gentle, swirling elegance of 1735 ballet.
But hold on to your tutus, there's something very important to remember about fashion in 1735: Tutus are a much later addition to the ballet wardrobe! So, my dear reader, although you'll rarely find tutus in this time period, I would argue that you will most certainly find that they fit perfectly within the essence of what 1735 was all about! A love of grace, elegance and artistry. We were just as fashion-forward as these ballet dancers, albeit with a more whimsical flair! Let’s sparkle our way through this era, shall we?
Now, onto the performances: A Glimpse of London's Ballet Scene
Remember, back then, theatre was the place to be for ballet and drama. Everyone would be crammed in the theatre. You could even get special box seats, so you wouldn't have to watch the performance standing up (imagine!) Covent Garden, London was really the hub for all things artistic - theatre and dance included! So what exactly was playing in London's ballet scene on the 2nd February 1735? We actually have a lot of records to help us travel through this period of history. This month, it's not quite a performance, but rather the start of the most exquisite ballet-era era for Covent Garden and London, so that’s exactly where our adventure led us. In a sense we travelled a little bit back to the very essence of ballet and the origin of theatre dance and choreography! We watched with our hands to our hearts, the sheer brilliance of what would eventually become a revolution and change the landscape of dancing, forever. We were fortunate to be there!
Now, darling readers, we’ve got to make this trip back to London. The sights and the atmosphere, it is truly mesmerizing and beautiful. I already have my pink tutu and sparkly tiara prepped. Magic Meg is chomping at the bit (and a pink sugar cube, of course) We'll bring you along to explore the ballet treasures of the London's dancing history, for the world of ballet, dear readers, it is forever evolving. There’s always something to discover - a history lesson and fashion statement rolled into one.
Now, I just hope that some of you lovely people are joining me to explore more ballet fashion and dance history! Why don’t we share the journey together? Join my blog www.pink-tutu.com, share your thoughts, and help me make the whole world love the elegant pink tutu as much as I do!
