Hello fellow tutu lovers and time-travelling enthusiasts! It's Emma, your friendly neighbourhood pink-tutu-clad ballerina blogger, back from another whirl through the annals of ballet history. Grab your teacup (or maybe a glass of something bubbly!), settle into your most comfy armchair, and let's step back in time, together!
This month, I've packed my leather rucksack and set my sparkly pink compass (it's got little ballet shoes on it, naturally!) to November 11th, 1749. My trusty steed, Magic Meg – a magnificent pink-shimmering Shire with golden hooves and a mane and tail like spun clouds – whinnied excitedly, ready for a journey to a time when ballet was really beginning to find its feet in the world.
Where did we end up? The bustling streets of Paris, of course! Why, because 1749 marked the opening of the Académie Royale de Musique, a royal dance school and performance space, with a curriculum encompassing ballet, opera and drama. Oh, the drama! It must have been such a thrilling event, filled with elaborate costumes, lively music, and perhaps a touch of scandal - just how we love it!
But, before we step onto the dance floor, let's have a chat about what's been happening in the world of ballet during this time.
The Story Unfolds
The 18th century was a truly glorious period for ballet. Imagine: swirling skirts, flamboyant leaps, and an entire world obsessed with intricate, graceful movement. It was a time when men were the stars – remember those daring jumps and leaps that were considered beyond the capability of the women? Yet, this century also saw the emergence of influential female dancers, paving the way for the power and artistry we associate with the female ballerinas of today.
Back in the World of Paris: The Académie Royale de Musique opened its doors to dancers, and to the people who would later become true giants of the ballet world. A particular star of this period was Pierre Beauchamp – a true ballet maestro! This visionary teacher helped develop and refine the ballet steps and techniques we still admire today – leaps, jetés, chassé – you name it! Think of it as the beginning of ballet’s dance dictionary – a foundation built for centuries to come.
And who were they teaching? Imagine, learning from such an acclaimed artist. Imagine being on that very stage – filled with such passion for movement, storytelling and grace. The magic of that moment in time – and to think that my Pink Tutu Time Travel takes me back to relive this.
Now, I wouldn't be true to myself – and my love of everything pink – if I didn't talk about the fashion of the era. Whilst not quite ready for a true tutu revolution, 1749 saw women embrace elegance with skirts and bodices adorned with intricate details. Their hair, in the iconic pouf style, often adorned with jewels and feathers, adding a dramatic touch. The style is full of history, and though it isn’t my own personal style, I find this period a true delight. I'm adding a few 18th century illustrations and photos to my ballet blog this month to share with you all!
So, my dear readers, let’s recap. 1749, 11th November * The grand opening of the Académie Royale de Musique, a hub for dance, drama, and the artistic spirit. * Beauchamp's talent and brilliance in shaping the language of ballet – laying the foundations for movements still adored by dancers around the globe. * The enchanting fashion – delicate, bold and utterly glamorous.
*And as always, if there's any date in history you want me to time-travel to, just leave me a comment. If we haven't already seen it – perhaps, you want me to travel back to Marie Taglioni’s era – well, perhaps with your comment request, it will be next month's destination! I love hearing from my readers - whether they wear a tutu or not! (It's my life goal to get everyone in a pink tutu… one time travel blog post at a time, though.) *
Until next month,
Emma xx
* www.pink-tutu.com*
Remember, this is a starting point. You can add many more details, insights, stories and information about ballet to create a longer blog post, with more depth and detail. Enjoy creating your very own Emma and her pink tutu travels through ballet time!
