Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, here! July the 7th, 1779 - a day that wasn't just another day in history. No, this day, my darlings, was all about the WALTZ! And I'm not talking about a little jig at the local ball, no no! This was a waltzing revolution!
Now, Magic Meg and I galloped through time (yes, it's truly magical, travelling through history on the back of my shimmering pink steed!), and landed in Vienna, the waltz capital of the world! Picture this: the streets buzzing with carriages, ladies in their finest gowns, gentlemen in powdered wigs, and oh my goodness, the music!
We stumbled upon the Burgtheater, one of the most prestigious theatres in all of Europe. It was simply resplendent, with velvet curtains and glittering chandeliers. The anticipation was electrifying as we squeezed into our seats, all set to witness the birth of the waltzing craze.
And oh, my darlings, what a craze it was! The Waltz! It was scandalous, romantic, and exhilarating! Think swirling skirts, clasped hands, and couples swaying closer and closer, lost in the intoxicating rhythm of the music. This was dancing at its most expressive and passionate, and I, for one, was completely enthralled!
You see, the waltz was a bold new dance form - no rigid rules, no pre-set steps! Imagine this: men and women gliding together, so close their bodies nearly touched! Can you imagine, darlings, a whole dance dedicated to romantic abandon and sensual movement? Well, that was the waltz in its glory, and believe me, it was a sight to behold!
My backpack is overflowing with sketches and descriptions of the incredible outfits worn by the waltzers. Such daring fashion, with flowing gowns that billowed with every twirl, and those charming little bonnets, so exquisitely adorned with ribbons and flowers! Oh, I must get my hands on some vintage bonnets! My wardrobe is just begging for a touch of 18th-century glamour!
I even managed to snatch a tiny glimpse of Mozart conducting the orchestra! Yes, the one and only Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart himself! He looked like a young man, all fiery passion and artistic spirit, leading his musicians through this new, thrilling musical style.
Now, before I lose myself in the sheer enchantment of that night, let's rewind a little. Why was this waltz so important, so revolutionary, in the history of ballet? Well, it marked a turning point in how ballet was perceived! No longer just a graceful performance in a formal setting, ballet became more personal, more expressive, a language of the heart. It embraced the emotions of the people and reflected their passion, their longing, their love, their very lives.
Think of it, darlings: this new waltz was about the thrill of close contact, of two souls entwined in a single dance. A touch of rebellion, a whiff of forbidden fruit. Isn't that something? It's no surprise the waltz quickly took Europe by storm!
Speaking of storms, there's a certain famous "waltzing couple" that everyone wants to know about, isn't there?
Oh, yes, Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI. A scandalous rumour swirling around Vienna was that Marie Antoinette was a "big fan" of the waltz. Imagine a Queen of France waltzing in secret, enjoying a taste of rebellion in the midst of her opulent life! The story was never confirmed, but it was whispered across Vienna, just as that waltz music drifted down the street. Maybe the Queen felt the thrill of the waltz just like we do today, embracing its daring beauty!
Of course, Marie Antoinette, though her image is always captivating, wasn't the only queen of that era to admire dance. Catherine the Great of Russia, Queen Charlotte of England and Queen Caroline Matilda of Denmark - they were all avid dancers! Perhaps their royal lives gave them a passion for all things bold, just like the waltz!
After the excitement of Vienna, we made our way to Paris, where we happened upon a delightful scene at the Opéra Garnier.
Yes, darling, you heard me right! Even in 1779, there were ballet performances at the legendary Opéra Garnier, long before it was even built! It's amazing how much the ballet world evolves, even through time. Back then, the French court was known for its grandeur and elegant dancing, and the Palais Royal, now the home of the Opéra Garnier, was abuzz with royal ballet productions. The ballet wasn't all elegant turns and perfect positions. There was a certain theatrical panache that added a sense of drama and storytelling, just like in ballet today!
Remember darlings, history is full of surprises! Who knew ballet was a major part of French society, just as it is today!
This whirlwind tour of waltz and ballet history left me breathless! Remember, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, darlings! Whether it's a new style of dance or a brand new colour, just give it a try, see what you find!
As for my newest find, you guessed it - I've discovered the most fabulous pink tutus in a hidden shop in Paris. The craftsmanship is incredible - hand-sewn tulle with delicate embroidery, adorned with little silk roses. And did I mention, the fabric shimmers under the lights like a beautiful pink cloud?
Until next time, darlings! Keep twirling, and remember - the world is your stage! And please do tell me, what are your favourite colours and tutus? Let me know in the comments section below!
Emma
xxx
