Hello my darling ballet-lovers! It's Emma, and it's time for another magical journey into ballet's glorious past! This month, I've been whisked away on Magic Meg's pink-sparkling back to the enchanting streets of 18th-century Paris. The air crackled with excitement as we galloped through time, the scent of lavender and pastries swirling around us like a pirouette.
As we arrived in Paris, I just knew that my trusty rucksack was going to be bursting with delightful ballet treasures! Paris, the capital of fashion and artistry, is always a must-visit destination for any ballet enthusiast, and I had to make the most of my time here!
But first, let's talk about what I'm wearing, because of course, the fashion is absolutely key! For my Parisian escapade, I'm rocking a glorious blush-pink tulle tutu, the perfect colour for blending in with the romantic aura of this historical city. Its layers whisper as I twirl, like the rustle of Parisian silks in a boudoir. The tutu is accented by a delicate ribbon that swirls around my neck like a delicate arabesque.
To complete the look, I've added a pink lace corsage with miniature pearls, inspired by the elegance of Parisian ballerinas during this era. My hair is a symphony of cascading ringlets, perfectly placed by the talented hand of a Parisian salon owner, who had the delightful quirk of using flower petals in her hair oil.
Now, let's talk ballet! While ballet wasn't yet the codified artform we know today, there was a burgeoning ballet scene in Paris. The 6th of June in 1752 saw a remarkable ballet called "The Magic Flute," performed by the celebrated ballet master Jean-Georges Noverre.
I imagine the thrill of seeing his choreography, filled with fantastical elements and graceful movements, and I can only wonder if my fellow time-travellers would have found their toes tapping to the rhythm of the era. The beauty of time travel is being able to step into a moment in history, imagine the world coming alive with movement and dance, even though my journey has no record of these shows in our world, I know they took place. It's enough to make even the most seasoned ballet dancer, like myself, swoon!
But what was on the menu for a Parisian ballerina in the 1750s? Imagine the delicacies - delicate croissants, rich pastries, and an array of exquisite French cheeses, paired with wines and bubbly beverages. It sounds utterly divine! Of course, it's a little more humble for my time travelling tastebuds, I'm sticking with fruit and vegetables, as my love for the tutus needs me to maintain a certain physique.
I did have a little treat though. The cafe near where I am staying makes the most amazing pink macarons, oh my! They are little bites of sweet, heaven, the perfect fuel for a busy day of exploring.
In this era, dance was interwoven with theatrical performances, music, and courtly festivities. The very idea of a separate “ballet” was still in its nascent stages! You might have been just as likely to see ballet at an elaborate court ball as at a professional theatre. How very thrilling, especially as you could easily get your tutus on, right?
And speaking of tutus, I found a hidden gem in one of Paris' bustling markets. It was a magnificent lilac-tinted silk ribbon, perfectly faded to the softest shade, as if kissed by the afternoon sun. This, my dears, is going straight into my rucksack! It is bound to be a spectacular addition to my collection, a true testament to the charm of Parisian fashion.
You know how I love sharing my experiences with all of you! I have to tell you, just last week I made a new friend in the time travel community. She was in the ballet in Paris in 1752, and has been in all eras. It's always lovely to share a cup of tea, well it was herbal tea as tea hadn't made it across from the far East just yet, and swap stories of past performances! It truly feels like joining an extended ballet family, spanning centuries and stretching across time.
So until next month, remember, my dears, there is always room for a little magic in our lives! Keep your eyes peeled for a dazzling pink tutu in a history book or museum, and you never know what ballet treasures might appear on your very own travels!
Sending pink and sparkling wishes your way,
Emma.
