Hello, darling readers! It's your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time-traveller, Emma, here, back with another thrilling journey through the glorious world of ballet. This month, my trusty steed, the dazzling Magic Meg (a pink sparkling Shire horse with golden hooves and a flowing mane of pure white) took me on an unforgettable escapade to the bustling city of Vienna in 1771! As always, I had my trusty leather rucksack packed full of curiosity, a spare pink tutu, and an insatiable desire to learn more about ballet's past.
You know I love my ballet fashion, right? So of course, a visit to Vienna had to involve a stop at one of its fabulous dressmakers! The city was bursting with elegant silk and intricate embroidery. It seems 1771 fashion favoured large panniers and intricately embellished bodices. Oh, and let's not forget the feathers! You can't have a grand, flamboyant look without a cascade of elegant plumage. It really reminded me of some of the grand opera costumes we see in the 21st century, don't you think?
But fashion was not all I found myself engulfed in. Stepping into the Imperial Court Opera in Vienna was a breath of fresh air – and I do mean air, literally! It was beautifully air-conditioned, unlike our hot, stuffy opera houses today. I mean, a little fan blowing in my face whilst dancing? Bliss! I’m a little sad to say, though, that 1771 wasn't the time of romantic tutus – that magical moment came later. While women still adorned themselves in exquisite fabrics, their movements on stage were more confined to grand gestures and dramatic poses. They wore gowns more suited to standing tall and dramatic rather than flitting across the stage in the way we know it today. It’s fascinating to see how ballet has evolved over the centuries!
Anyway, what I found particularly enthralling was that Vienna, back in 1771, was absolutely obsessed with the work of Salomon and Josef Antonin Bock, two Italian composers, who held court at the Burgtheater. These were the masters of their time – they composed operas, ballets, and concertos that captivated the Viennese audience, creating a vibrant artistic landscape. The Court Opera was brimming with excitement. One of my favourite memories of this visit was witnessing a dazzling performance of “Die geschäftige Welt” (The Busy World) a ballet by Salomon and Josef Antonin Bock. The music was incredible; vibrant, passionate, and full of life. And though I longed for those wispy pink tutus to take centre stage, the costumes were beautifully embellished with jewels, lace, and feathers, just so stunning. The dancers moved with grace, portraying the bustle of daily life through captivating steps and dramatic expressions.
My travels also took me to the city's renowned dance halls, where waltzes were all the rage. You’ll laugh to think that in 1771, the waltz, that quintessential ballroom dance, was considered scandalous! It was thought too sensual and dangerous – the men holding their partners so close – it shocked the ladies of Vienna! Honestly, I found myself wishing I had brought a few more of my pink tutus to slip into these enchanting ballrooms! How wonderful would it have been to twirl in the arms of a gentleman while listening to the magical tunes played by live musicians! Oh, the stories that could be spun on the dance floor!
Even though I couldn’t take a full dance class on this journey, I did come across a most extraordinary dancing master! He was a real eccentric – teaching all sorts of wonderful dances. It seems everyone from nobles to servants learned his steps! It really brought home the fact that back in those times, even though ballet wasn't the spectacle it is today, it was woven into everyday life, influencing everything from courtly dances to folk traditions.
One of the most endearing things about my 1771 journey, besides seeing how far ballet has come, was getting to discover what makes it truly timeless. From the magnificent palaces and majestic music to the sheer joy of people gathering together to share in the beauty of movement and music, it’s evident that ballet truly resonates with humanity's deepest desire to express and connect. It's something that truly makes my heart dance with joy. And let's face it, what's life without a little dancing and a pink tutu to make it sparkle, right?
That’s all for this month, dear readers. Do visit my site, www.pink-tutu.com, where I share all of my time-travelling adventures, plus amazing tips on styling the perfect pink tutu, creating ballet-inspired recipes (believe me, you don't want to miss out on the strawberry macaron ballerina shoes!), and some beautiful ballet-themed crafting ideas!
I shall keep you updated on where I might journey next on Magic Meg, and maybe I'll be inspired to make some of my own beautiful pink tutus from the 18th century!
Until then, dance on!
Your Tutu-loving Time Traveller, Emma xxx
