Post Number: 1239
Hello, lovelies! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet where I, your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, Emma, takes you on a magical journey through time, one twirl at a time. This month, I’m whisking you off to a particularly delightful Parisian soirée in 1764 – and trust me, it’s a night you won’t forget!
Before I hop on Magic Meg – my dazzling, pink-sparkled Shire horse with golden hooves, white mane and tail, she's a total stunner – let me tell you how my little time travel enterprise works. It’s all funded by my ballet performances, you see! Every month I put on a show – it's usually a blend of classical and contemporary, a touch of modern street ballet for good measure. Then, the proceeds whisk me off to another point in history, bringing you fascinating snippets of ballet history along the way. I always pack my trusty leather rucksack, stuffed full of antique ballet shoes, elegant headbands, and those priceless, historical anecdotes that I can't resist scooping up on my adventures!
Now, let’s get back to our Parisian adventure! The year is 1764, the date the 3rd of March. Picture a bustling, cobbled street in the heart of Paris. Gaslights illuminate elegant shops filled with shimmering silk and the clinking of gold. In one such shop, I’ve picked out a magnificent, blush-pink satin gown with lace edging. After all, I've got to match the colour of my new, fluffy pink tutu, wouldn't you agree? Magic Meg is looking resplendent too, her pink sparkles glittering under the moon, her golden hooves making barely a sound as we trot through the elegant Parisian streets.
Our destination tonight is the Salle du Théâtre de la Comédie-Italienne. The air vibrates with anticipation as we reach the entrance. This is where we will be witness to the enchanting world of ballet during a performance of "La Fée Urgèle." Now, this isn’t your typical ballet, my dears. The Comédie-Italienne specialised in comédie en vaudeville – a unique style mixing comedy, song, dance and even mime. It's truly captivating, an entire night of theatrical delight!
The theatre is alive with a mixture of excited chatter and the clink of glasses as theatregoers enjoy a pre-performance dinner. You see, they used to dine right in the theatre itself during these productions, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Tonight, the audience includes a colourful mix of the aristocracy, intellectuals, and theatre aficionados.
Finally, the curtain rises. A burst of music and colour greets us. And there it is: "La Fée Urgèle." The entire show unfolds before our eyes – a delicate, almost playful story with captivating dance sequences. The graceful movements of the ballerinas are so fluid, yet captivating, as they dance on their delicate pointe shoes – which, by the way, have barely changed at all over the years. They still provide the graceful elegance that dancers still covet today! The costumes are flamboyant and bold – a delightful mixture of vibrant colors and glittering embellishments.
The dancing is fast-paced, exciting, and utterly enchanting. We're swept away into the whirlwind of the story, full of light-hearted comedy, charming romanticism and elegant artistry. We see Jean-Baptiste-Claude Barré the famous maestro of dance himself performing a dazzling ballet step sequence, he is simply mesmerising! We are all completely captivated, me included, with the enchanting storytelling and captivating dancing on display.
As the last notes fade and the curtains close, we all rise to our feet, applauding enthusiastically. What a performance! I leave with my heart soaring, clutching my notebook where I’ve carefully sketched the costumes, noted the famous dancer's names, and meticulously recorded the intricate steps I hope to recreate one day.
Stepping back onto the Parisian street with the soft light of the moon upon my face, I feel an incredible energy pulsing through the cobblestone streets. Tonight’s theatrical experience in Paris 1764 has proven to be a truly exceptional experience. A perfect combination of artistry and theatricality that only the dance form of ballet can offer!
Until next time my lovely friends, don’t forget: It’s all about twirling! Wear pink, wear a tutu and spread the magic!
Yours in pink tulle,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
