Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-wearing time traveller! It's the 10th October and I'm bursting with excitement, because today's journey takes us back to 1778! (This is post #1414 on the www.pink-tutu.com blog, in case you're just joining us!). I just know you'll absolutely adore this time period, with its captivating costumes, delightful music and the birth of ballet as we know it. So saddle up with Magic Meg (my oh-so-sparkly pink Shire horse with the golden hooves and magnificent white mane!) and let's get going!
Before we set off, you know the drill, lovely lot - a little pre-trip dance preparation. We're heading back in time to when ballets were becoming spectacular and female dancers were really starting to shine (you heard that right - even without tutus!)
Right, where do we find ourselves today? In a thrilling blend of Parisian grace and London swagger! It's a historical hotspot! We have Marie Antoinette reigning in France with her lavish balls, while England has George III on the throne, enjoying his own cultural blossoming. It's a period filled with grandeur, passion, and yes, even scandal! But let's keep it classy, shall we? After all, pink tutus don't associate with scandal. They associate with elegance and grace.
My trusty backpack's full of wonder - I've packed my camera and notebook for my trip. But remember - the best part of any time travel journey are the surprises. This is the era of ballet innovation - can you believe that in the very same year as my visit, Marie Allard choreographed the first ballets using toe shoes! Talk about a game changer! It's fascinating to think about the ballet shoes we wear today - the lineage of each one going back to this groundbreaking moment. Imagine if there was no Allard - would ballet be the same?! It sends shivers down my spine (but luckily, those shivers come with warmth and excitement!).
To put us in the picture - it was all about the grace and sophistication, with beautifully elegant movements. I just adore those 18th-century costumes – imagine delicate ruffles and stunning pastel colours with glittering, bejewelled embellishments - I can almost imagine myself waltzing into one of those extravagant ballets with my pink tutu!
Speaking of the magic that lies ahead, did you know there are some real "ballet firsts" that happened in this very year? We're talking world premiere moments, like "L'amant Anonyme" by Jean-Georges Noverre, considered one of the earliest ballets in the history of the world - I can just hear the music ringing in my ears even from 250 years ago! What a privilege it is to be a witness to the dawn of this beautiful art form, and think of all the talented dancers who were just beginning their journeys!
Now, for our own little taste of the past, I'm heading into the heart of London! It's the 10th October, which means, oh my, I have to experience the annual London Ballet Season at Covent Garden! How thrilling! Just imagine the scene: the grand theatre filled with the whispers of the elite, a beautifully orchestrated symphony playing the tunes, the delicate steps of talented ballerinas! The wonder! It's like walking through a storybook.
This year is going to be sensational, featuring the most talented dancers, showcasing an intriguing blend of traditional techniques and groundbreaking innovation!
Of course, I have a date with the enchanting Ballet Master Noverre, who will tell me all about his visions, his ballet inspirations and those glorious innovative pieces of artistry that everyone is raving about! We’re planning a long afternoon tea at the elegant cafe - we are British, after all! He's the darling of the stage, everyone loves him, and his ballets are as elegant and captivating as any royal procession!
After Covent Garden, it's time to soak up the London atmosphere - maybe a visit to the elegant "Cumberland House" for a dance lesson? A charming private establishment (imagine learning a petit jeté in the same room as Mozart!). Now that's the real glamour, isn't it? I mean, if Mozart is looking at me... Who needs the Queen, darling?!
Don't worry, I'm bringing you with me, lovelies! I'm documenting the entire trip, so be sure to keep an eye out for my Pink Tutu Time Travel Diary: 1778 – my secret recipe for making the perfect ballet-inspired English teacake is in there too (you must try this one). I'm already imagining the perfect pink-tutu tea-party, complete with dainty cupcakes and a ballet soundtrack! Just let your imagination fly and get ready to add a splash of pink elegance to your world!
Oh, and just in case you were thinking about fashion – the colours this era just ooze style and flair! Rich velvets, shimmering silks, vibrant embroideries, and yes, my darlings, even some gorgeous pink gowns are beginning to appear! (Pink has been my inspiration always!), I'll have to find out why! Who knew our dear old Queen herself, Marie Antoinette, loved wearing shades of pale pink - what a glamorous fashion icon, and so in-the-know! She just gets it!
You can’t deny it – those elegant dances were not just about the steps, my dears - the dresses made a huge impression too!
My, oh my! It's already been a whirlwind of ballet magic. But don’t think I’ve forgotten about my purpose, my lovelies! I’ll be adding a new collection to the pink-tutu.com website - '1778 - The Ballet Renaissance'. It'll be full of gorgeous inspiration for you! This period in ballet has so many beautiful elements – it just has to be shared! After all, why limit pink tutus to just me? I want everyone to wear them and join my Ballet Renaissance!
Stay tuned!
Big pink ballet hugs, Emma xxx
