#BalletHistory during 1738 01 January

Hello my lovely tututistas! It's your favourite pink-loving, tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, back with another adventure from the world of ballet! This month, I'm whisking you all back to the enchanting Parisian scene of January 1st, 1738. As you all know, a new year brings new beginnings, and for ballet fans in the French capital, it meant the premiere of something truly special - "Les Fêtes Chinoises" by the renowned composer, Jean-Philippe Rameau!

Before I get swept away with the exciting performance itself, I must introduce my trusty travel companion, Magic Meg. Yes, you read that right! Magic Meg is a shimmering pink shire horse with a white mane and tail, and golden hooves that sparkle with every step she takes. Just like me, she adores pink, and her coat glistens under the Parisian sun like a freshly-painted ballet tutu. (Don't you think she looks fabulous pulling our carriage? We are quite the pair, I tell you!)

Now, back to that captivating performance in 1738. The opera was set in China, full of intricate costumes and exotic themes. Imagine a ballet packed with vibrant silks, flowing movements, and beautiful oriental dance inspired by Chinese art! The entire world of ballet went wild! Even the French court flocked to the theatre, captivated by the music and mesmerised by the beauty of it all. It was truly a breathtaking spectacle of colour, rhythm and, most importantly, incredible ballet technique.

Talking about technique, oh my darling readers, just the way they danced in the 18th century! You can see it in old portraits and illustrations - a delicate poise, elegance, and incredible precision in every step. Even the men, in their silken knee-length breeches and fitted jackets, seemed to float across the stage, their graceful movements echoing the grace of their partners. And you wouldn't believe it - I managed to snatch a pair of gorgeous ballet slippers from a seamstress at the opera! They were made of hand-stitched leather with delicate bows, not so far from what I wear today!

Can you picture it, darlings? A lavish performance, the elegant Parisian audience captivated, and my leather rucksack filling up with fascinating stories and exquisite ballet pieces - talk about a perfect day out! Speaking of which, I need to tell you all about the most incredible shop I stumbled upon! Imagine this - a small, intimate boutique with hand-crafted fabrics, exquisite embroidery, and the most amazing tulle I've ever seen! I bought some luscious pink fabric with delicate silver thread running through it, and let me tell you, you won't believe what I plan to do with it!

Now, let me confess, my darlings - Paris is one of my favourite places for finding inspiration! There’s a certain charm about that old French tradition, that elegance, those captivating ballet traditions… It’s pure magic, I tell you! But what’s even better is discovering that magical sparkle that still shines brightly in the world of ballet, here in 2023, back in Derbyshire, England.

Speaking of ballet and England - a quick reminder for you all about my next performance, right here in the lovely Derbyshire. The beautiful Peak District backdrop makes a magical setting for ballet! I'm dancing at The Derbyshire Playhouse on the 21st of February with the “Dancing Divas” ensemble! Do join us, and you'll get a chance to admire some new outfits I've designed using all the inspiration from this time travelling adventure. I’ll be rocking the most delightful pink tutus - with that lovely Parisian fabric!

Stay beautiful, stay pink and remember, every single day is a perfect day for dancing!

See you all soon,

Emma

(And, yes, I’ll be posting photos on www.pink-tutu.com - I'm getting the pink glitter ready already!)