Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, your favourite tutu-clad time traveller! Can you believe it’s already March?! It feels like just yesterday I was twirling through the cobblestone streets of 18th Century London, watching the world marvel at the newest ballet fashions. But time marches on, as they say, and so do we! This month I’m whisking you all away to… drumroll please… the year 1761!
The world was buzzing that day with excitement. A new royal was about to be crowned in far-off Russia and there were murmurs of political unrest bubbling in France, all whilst my heart was beating a rhythm that could only be described as a pas de bourrée to the beat of excitement – I was off to a ballet performance, darlings!
This wasn't just any ordinary performance though, it was at the iconic Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London! This legendary venue was already 50 years old and had seen some of the greatest ballets ever performed on its stage. Today, however, I was off to see a lesser known performance – "The Enchanted Island" by George Handel! You might recognise the name from his stunning musical compositions, but this ballet wasn't entirely focused on Handel's music. It was a bit more complex, drawing from the works of many talented musicians and choreographers of the era, and let me tell you, it was a delight!
I, of course, had my trusty leather rucksack with me. Inside, you can find all sorts of treasures from the time period, from little handwritten playbills to delicate ballet shoe sketches, everything you can possibly imagine from a ballet performance. (Think I’m going to add a vintage fabric swatch to my collection too – I'm just mad for those bold damask fabrics that the leading ladies wore in those days!).
Before we get back to the performance, let me tell you about the ride! Magic Meg was positively sparkling in her beautiful pink satin harness. Her white tail flowed like a silken banner in the crisp London air, and with her golden hooves, it felt like we were flying!
The performance itself was captivating. It had everything – drama, humour, exquisite costuming – the sort of theatricality that just draws you into another world. The dancers' tutus were the absolute epitome of the era - voluminous, layers upon layers of perfectly pleated silk and satin. Honestly, it made me want to get straight back to the sewing machine and craft up a magnificent pink version just for myself! (A girl can dream, right?).
Imagine my excitement when I found a lovely old woman dressed in exquisite floral fabric, sat next to me. Her hair was done up in beautiful waves adorned with delicate flowers, and her smile just shone like a sunrise. I asked her all about the performance and learned the most amazing tidbit: some of the original choreography for this very production was inspired by the ballet moves from India! The dance world really does connect the entire globe – what a fascinating bit of history.
My dear reader, the show really was something special. The emotions, the athleticism, the beauty, the spectacle… It left me wanting to dance the entire journey home with Magic Meg!
To round off our evening, I made sure we made a stop for some sweet treats. Nothing beats enjoying a cup of fragrant, hot chocolate with cream and cinnamon after a performance! (You really need to add this to your ballet traditions, darling!).
I wish I could bring you all with me to these incredible shows! Perhaps one day.
But remember, my dear friends, this is just one moment, a glimpse into the colourful, ever-evolving history of ballet. My biggest hope, always, is to inspire each of you to embrace the beautiful artistry, the stunning outfits, and of course, the irresistible pink tutus, that are synonymous with this wonderful world.
So, twirl those pink tutus proudly, darlings, and stay tuned for more adventures on www.pink-tutu.com next month! I’ll be back with a new post, a new time period, a new journey into the magical history of ballet!
Until next time, stay radiant and twirl your way to happiness! 💖
With a flourish,
Emma
