Hello my darlings, it's your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back again with another peek into the enchanting world of ballet history!
This month, Magic Meg and I have travelled all the way back to 1756, the 7th of July to be exact. Picture it: cobbled streets, candlelight, the scent of lavender in the air... and yes, a few whiffs of horse manure, but what’s a time traveller without a bit of adventure?
Today's journey takes us right into the heart of the dance world, at a time when ballet was taking the world by storm. We're not just talking about the theatre; ballet was about to break free and sashay its way right into the boudoirs, into everyday life!
Remember those magnificent gowns with pannier-style skirts we saw in Marie Antoinette's time? Well, guess what? Those extravagant styles? They were deeply inspired by ballet!
Yes, ballet was literally inspiring fashion! It’s quite fascinating, isn’t it? Those swishing layers, those flowing silks, and even those elaborate headdresses were all a testament to the grace and elegance of dance.
Can you picture this: Ladies gliding through grand ballrooms, their swirling gowns reminding everyone of their favourite ballerinas! Just imagine the joy of that moment, of ballet reaching beyond the stage, becoming part of everyday life! This period was truly about elegance, grace and dance.
This period saw the growth of ballet in London, Paris and all over Europe, as more and more people took an interest in the captivating artistry of ballet!
Speaking of Paris, I just had to do some window shopping there this month, wouldn't you? Just look at this lovely beaded handbag I found at a beautiful boutique, it was perfect for adding some extra glitz and glam to my travel outfit.
And guess what else was making waves back in 1756? Italian Opera! Can you believe that? I know, I was absolutely charmed! Those dramatic operas had dancers in the scenes! Ballet wasn't just confined to standalone performances, it was becoming an integrated part of storytelling through the operas! That’s what I call true integration!
Back in Derbyshire, you can feel the excitement as this cultural evolution took hold in England. It’s inspiring, don't you think? Ballet wasn't just about dancing, it was about a whole culture and way of life! It's so rewarding to see how dance had its finger on the pulse of everything!
And yes, of course, I had to do some ballet class with my local group - a good ballet session helps me remember how vital movement is in history. Even when we think about times in the past, those steps, those gestures are just as relevant as ever.
Of course, Magic Meg and I have added all of the exciting details from this time period to my ballet history rucksack, for future stories and inspiration! The next post, I’m excited to show you some more time period specific accessories that were just made to be used in your next pink tutu performance! You can use a feather boa, or some tulle to emulate the splendid silks of that era – let your creativity soar, like a dancer at the ballet, and have some fun.
Well, I must get going, I have some fabulous costumes to pick up for my ballet performances. As always, you can find my travel schedule, as well as the performances on my site. I’m aiming for a performance in your neighbourhood so keep your eye out for our pink-tutu show coming to your city!
Love, Emma 💖
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