Hello my dearest Tutu Tribe! Emma here, back from another whirlwind trip through time, this time landing on July 7th, 1750! Isn't it a perfectly lovely date? A true summer day!
As you all know, I'm a bit obsessed with ballet history, and it was impossible to miss the grandeur and opulence of the French Court in the 18th Century!
My trusty steed, Magic Meg, who was, by the way, simply divine in her pink sparkly saddle and bridle (a bit too flashy for the era, perhaps, but I couldn't resist!), galloped us through the charming French countryside until we reached Versailles.
Now, I'm all for the pink tulle and romantic swirling of ballet, but oh, the elegance! This place is a true fairy tale. Think fountains that seem to sing, topiaries pruned into intricate shapes, and gardens that wouldn't be out of place in a painting. It was all so incredibly decadent - and so very inspiring!
Of course, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to visit the Royal Ballet. Let me tell you, the court was in full regalia, all glittering silks and lace. The ladies were draped in exquisite gowns and towering wigs, their faces powdered and painted - absolutely magnificent!
A Ballet Under the Royal Gaze
The ballet I attended was quite different from anything I've seen before! While I, of course, am a true aficionado of graceful twirls and delicate leaps, this was much more...formal.
The piece was called "La Fête du Parterre", a lavish production about a mythical story of nymphs and shepherds set in a romantic landscape - imagine swirling greenery and beautiful nymphs gracefully leaping about. The choreography, while very structured, was certainly impressive.
Imagine it! The stage was bathed in soft candlelight, the music, though rather simple compared to our modern compositions, was still utterly charming and filled with delicate, expressive melodies. The dancers, clad in gorgeous costumes, were the true stars, their movements stately and controlled, embodying grace and poise beyond compare.
There were even scenes where the dancers would turn to engage with the audience, a very clever technique I must say! It was thrilling to be so close to the performance - I'm quite certain the King, Louis XV, felt as mesmerised as I did.
Beyond Ballet: Fashion, Frills and Flourishes
After the ballet, I couldn't resist indulging in the bustling French market. Imagine beautiful woven fabrics in shades of blues and greens, exquisite lace trimmed with pearls, and an abundance of pastel ribbons. Everything shimmered and sparkled under the sunlight.
And you know I'm never one to resist a fabulous fashion statement! I added a beautiful fan, with delicate floral motifs, to my collection. A touch of Paris, right?
I also couldn't help but take in the vibrant culture, from the lively conversations in charming Parisian cafes to the fascinating street entertainers, a far cry from the rather strict rules in my Victorian times! But that's one of the joys of time travel - observing these captivating contrasts, these stories etched in time.
Pink Tutu History Nuggets
I found a little gem tucked away in my trusty leather rucksack today. A hand-written note detailing a royal ballet performance. Imagine - a note from the past that was a direct link to the era's ballet! My heart skipped a beat - it was as though I had a personal glimpse into history.
Coming Up
Next month, I'm taking Meg to explore the wonders of ancient Egypt. Just think - the grandeur of the pyramids, the mysteries of the Pharaohs, and maybe a dance with a pyramid dancer - how delightful!
Keep your eyes peeled, dear Tutu Tribe, for an exciting ballet time-travelling blog post coming next month, chock-full of new discoveries! And, as always, keep dreaming of pink tutus!
Until then, embrace the joy of movement and the beauty of a pink tutu!
Yours truly,
Emma x
