Hello darlings! It's Emma here, and welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels! This month, we're stepping back in time to a rather special date: 12th December 1753. Buckle up your pink tutus, grab your teacups, and let's travel back to a time of powdered wigs and grand opera houses!
This December, my trusty steed, Magic Meg, a shimmering pink Shire with hooves like polished gold, took me on a whimsical trip back to London. Imagine, darling, the bustling streets of Covent Garden, the air thick with the aroma of hot mince pies and the chatter of coachmen. My trusty rucksack was brimming with anticipation, ready to collect stories and treasures from this fascinating period.
As I rode through the city, my eyes were drawn to the grand theatre that stood proudly on the corner, the Covent Garden Theatre. Now, a little birdie told me that something rather special was about to happen there tonight - the premiere of a new ballet! Oh, how I longed to witness it!
But first, darling, some gossip! Apparently, this particular ballet was written by the very renowned choreographer, Jean-Georges Noverre. You might recognise him as the genius behind those magnificent dances with natural movements and realistic themes. Noverre, oh how we adore his innovative ideas, they really are the very essence of the ballet! This performance, it is said, is set to feature a new and groundbreaking "action ballet". The anticipation was palpable!
Reaching the theatre, I slipped out of my flowing pink tutu and, to avoid any unnecessary fuss, I magically disguised myself as a wealthy socialite (a little shimmer and sparkle, a fan to flutter, and voila!)
I squeezed into the velvet-covered seats, and oh, what a sight! The theatre buzzed with a vibrant energy. All around me were finely dressed ladies and gentlemen. It seemed all of London society was eager to witness this much talked about ballet. The orchestra played, the lights dimmed, and as the curtain rose, I felt a sense of wonder and anticipation.
The stage was filled with dancing ladies in their opulent costumes. But wait, dear readers, there was something a little different here. The movements were expressive, bold, and infused with a powerful energy. Noverre had crafted a narrative dance - the story was truly brought to life! It was revolutionary! I felt a profound respect for his dedication and innovation. What a groundbreaking moment in the history of dance!
As the curtain fell, the audience erupted in applause, thrilled by this daring new performance. A new era of ballet had dawned. And let's face it, ladies, change is something we should all embrace!
I felt a profound sense of gratitude that I was there, witnessing this extraordinary piece of dance history. It was then I felt inspired. It was my duty, you see, to find this ballet in my own time, revive it, and bring its glorious energy to modern stages. After all, as any seasoned Pink Tutu traveller will tell you, inspiration can strike you anywhere!
Of course, I didn't forget my rucksack, my darling readers. I filled it with snippets of the music, programs, sketches, and even a feather from one of the dancers' head-dresses. Every piece, a beautiful little relic of the past!
The ballet premiere of 12th December 1753: a true turning point in the world of ballet, and one that resonates with me, to this day!
And speaking of turning points, darlings, let me give you a little something to keep in your hearts. Did you know, December is the time to enjoy performances across the globe! In my beautiful Derbyshire, the esteemed Derby Theatre is showing a festive favourite – a truly delightful ballet called 'The Nutcracker', with its sugary delights and wondrous, whimsical scenes!
I truly recommend embracing the ballet magic this season! Take your friends, grab some yummy popcorn and sweets, and step into a world of enchanting music and elegant dancers.
But before you go, remember my dearest readers: The world needs more pink tutus!
Until next month, darling, Emma xoxo
P.S. If you’re dreaming of your own time travelling adventures, then keep your eyes peeled! My next blog post will be all about how to magically manifest your very own pink tutued steed! ✨
