Hello darlings! It’s your favourite ballerina blogger, Emma, back with another peek into the magical world of ballet history. This month, I’m galloping back to April 4th, 1763, a time of elegant powdered wigs and dazzling courtly dances. Don’t worry, I’ve packed my trusty pink tutu, of course! (It goes with everything!).
My trusty steed, Magic Meg – you know, the pink-sparkling shire with the golden hooves and flowing white mane – pawed the ground impatiently as I finished packing my leather rucksack. This trip, I was particularly excited about hunting for some vintage ballet scores, perhaps a rare engraving of a famous choreographer – all the things that truly make a ballerina's heart flutter.
Back in Time, to a Dance-Filled World
London was alive with the sights and sounds of bustling life, much like Derbyshire! Only in London, the scent of jasmine and the rumble of carriages were more common. I rode through streets lined with charming, cobbled squares and quaint brick houses – oh, wouldn't a charming tea shop have been perfect for afternoon tea with a ballet journal?!
However, I was here for one thing: ballet! The stage, as always, beckoned. Now, 1763 might not seem like a time overflowing with ballet, but that's where the magic of time travel shines! It was a time of great change in dance, with new steps and choreographies being born. In fact, that very month, the young choreographer Jean-Georges Noverre premiered his masterpiece “Le Ballet du Devin du Village,” in Paris. Oh, the thought of seeing a debut performance like that would be a dream!
But, let's talk about something even more exciting - fashion! Oh, darling, the dresses in 1763 were utterly divine! Think layers of silk, frou-frou ruffles, and ribbons in colours fit for a queen. My rucksack was overflowing with inspiration – how to incorporate that gorgeous Parisian flair into my future pink tutu designs! The thought of shimmering satin, cascading lace, and, of course, the essential pink… sigh. The possibilities are endless!
* Ballet on Stage & Beyond: A Peek at the Past*
And speaking of stage, let's chat about what the world of ballet was like. I spent the afternoon in a beautiful opera house, gazing upon the stunning, dramatic performances that were so popular then. Imagine, grand sweeping movements, passionate emotions… so much different from the ballet I’m used to! The stories were captivating, and it made me even more passionate about sharing my love of dance history with all of you.
Keeping it Pink! My Monthly Inspirations
I’ve got a special something for you this month! My latest pink tutu design is inspired by the era's flowing ribbons and swirling floral patterns. You can picture it, darling: the pinkest tulle you’ve ever seen, layered with the lightest silk, and adorned with tiny bows and delicate embroidery. It’s truly the ultimate vintage ballet fashion statement!
If you want to join me on this adventure in pink, don’t forget to head to www.pink-tutu.com. There’s a brand new pink tutu giveaway each month – I know, you're welcome! Plus, don't forget to check out my ballet tutorials. This month, I’m teaching some basic 1760s ballet moves! (We need some elegant grace to compliment those dazzling outfits, darling!).
Sharing the Love of Dance: From London to Your Living Room
Before I sign off, I've got some more wonderful news: my latest dance performance was a smash hit! We raised enough to pay for another month of time travel – hooray! With every leap and pirouette, I get to bring you the wonder and beauty of dance history. I'm on a mission to share the magic of ballet with everyone – even those who have never taken a single pirouette.
Until next month, keep it pink, keep it graceful, and never stop dancing, darling!
XOXO
Emma