Hello my darlings, and welcome back to another whimsical journey through the history of ballet! This month, I’ve decided to take Magic Meg, my pink-sparkling Shire steed with golden hooves, for a jaunt back to 6th June, 1749 – the very date that Marie-Sully Prudhomme, a leading lady of the Paris Opera Ballet, captivated audiences with her performance in Les Fêtes Chinoises.
Now, you know I love a good ballet show – but Les Fêtes Chinoises, oh my! It was considered scandalous at the time, full of Orientalist influences with exaggerated costumes and elaborate sets. I simply adore the idea of pushing boundaries and defying expectations – something my trusty pink tutu always helps me do. Imagine! Such drama, such movement, such flamboyance! And that’s exactly what ballet was in 1749: a thrilling spectacle, a visual delight, and an opportunity for the very best dancers to showcase their grace and skill.
Speaking of grace, did you know Marie-Sully Prudhomme wasn’t only known for her impressive stage presence, but also for her exquisite ballet fashion? Apparently, she had an absolute knack for picking the most fabulous outfits for both performance and everyday life – even sparking the "powdered wig" trend! Imagine, a time when hairspray and elaborate hairpieces weren’t the only option for glamorous hair! I do wish I had access to such creative styles – imagine the potential for my own pink tutu looks! I could be the envy of every dance enthusiast, from the streets of Derbyshire to the grand boudoirs of Versailles.
However, my journey didn't end in a whirlwind of performance. I spent the rest of the day soaking in the Parisian atmosphere, a haven for elegant boutiques and enchanting ballet schools. The shops overflowed with elegant satins and silks in shades of ivory and rose, a truly breathtaking sight! Imagine how magical a trip to a tailor’s shop must have been in those days – it makes me wonder, was the pink tutu born then? Did they already know the magical effect this colour would have on future dancers? Perhaps the spirit of ballet fashion is forever woven into the very fabric of those shops!
Oh, my dear reader, there is just so much more to tell! From the dazzling displays of stagecraft at the Opéra, with their magnificent gilded details and painted backdrops – truly a sight to behold – to the vibrant ballet lessons being held in a room above a baker’s shop! Can you picture it? The smell of freshly baked bread and the graceful dance movements – a delightful and unexpected combination.
My adventures through 1749 have been more thrilling than ever! I am already dreaming of my next trip through time – perhaps a peek at the first official ballet school, or the creation of the first pink tutu? Only time (and a little time-travelling magic) will tell. In the meantime, I must share my knowledge with you. If you are as excited as I am to delve into ballet's captivating past, do join me on www.pink-tutu.com for a journey filled with pink and sparkles!
Until next month, darling,
Emma x
