Hey darlings! Welcome back to my Pink-Tutu time travel blog! I'm Emma, your Derbyshire ballerina-turned-time-traveller, and I'm back from another absolutely incredible trip, this time to the grand year of 1735.
This month, Magic Meg, my fabulous pink-sparkling Shire horse with golden hooves (and of course, a white mane and tail like spun silk), took us back to the heart of the Age of Enlightenment. I love this era – it's a time of intellectual curiosity, artistic exploration, and, most importantly, stunning fashion!
June 6th, 1735, brought me to a London buzzing with life and activity. From bustling markets to grand theaters, the energy was contagious. My pink tutu, sparkling with rhinestones under the midday sun, drew more than a few curious glances. I found myself amidst ladies in panniers and gentlemen with powdered wigs, all bustling with anticipation for the latest theatrical production.
And speaking of theatrical productions, oh, the ballet scene! Imagine a world without pointe shoes, but with such intricate and elegant movement! The ballet companies of the day favoured the lighter, more theatrical approach, with emphasis on character dances, witty scenarios, and intricate footwork. I made my way to a performance by the French Opera Ballet, a company renowned for their spectacular performances.
The theatre was a wonderland of gilded balconies, twinkling chandeliers, and a packed audience in elaborate costumes. The performance was absolutely mesmerising! They were telling a fantastical story, filled with witty commentary on love, social status and all things human. It was a truly engaging form of entertainment and truly a masterclass in storytelling! It made me think, could there be more room for narrative in our contemporary ballet? Hmmm...something for me to think about.
After the performance, I went into the City to discover more about what was happening on this very day in ballet history! You won't believe this, but at this very time, in faraway Vienna, the brilliant young Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was learning his craft – and who knows, maybe even dipping his toes in ballet music? 🎶
Later that evening, I met a young woman named Sarah at a fashion boutique, a vision in pale pink silks and a dazzling lace collar. Sarah worked as a seamstress and confided in me her dreams of becoming a ballerina! Such ambition and inspiring energy! She showed me some of her exquisite needlework, including an elegant corset with delicate ribbons and an elaborate, pleated skirt. The attention to detail, the skill, it was like seeing the beginnings of the ballet tutus we know today! I encouraged her with all my heart – never give up your dreams, my dear! I just know her work will find its way into ballet someday!
It’s amazing how the world of fashion and dance were so tightly intertwined back then. Imagine, my friends, a world where our everyday wear might be inspired by ballet costumes! Maybe our jeans would feature swirling tiers like a tutu skirt, or our jackets might be cut with a flowing, elegant silhouette like a ballerina’s tunic! 🤔
Speaking of fashion, oh darling, let me tell you about the enchanting hat shop I found! It was a tiny, sunlit place overflowing with feathers, ribbons, and the most delicate of floral embellishments. I simply couldn't resist purchasing a wide-brimmed, pink straw hat with a silk bow the colour of a blush. It matched my tutu perfectly, of course! 😉
You'll see this hat and a few other vintage treasures from my time in 1735 in the upcoming ballet performances that I am fundraising for. I’m trying to save up for my next time-traveling escapade, so do come and see me! My pink tutu is just itching for a grand performance on stage, so join me! Tickets are already selling out fast – get yours at www.pink-tutu.com !
Before I go, a small reminder, my lovely readers – it is always good to be respectful and curious when traveling to other times. Never judge those who live in other times by today's standards – look instead at what they were working towards, the progress they were making! Let’s learn, grow, and find joy in those connections.
Till next month, stay sparkling and never be afraid to twirl! 💖
Love,
Emma
(Remember to check out www.pink-tutu.com for upcoming performance dates and more exciting blog posts! 💖)
