Hello, fellow twirling enthusiasts! Welcome back to my Pink Tutu Time Travel Blog! February is here, and my heart is overflowing with excitement, because not only are we heading back to a captivating historical era, but also celebrating one of my absolute favourite things: pink! Let's hop on Magic Meg's back and dive right into the shimmering past, shall we?
This month, we're setting our shimmering ballet shoes on a date that echoes through history – 2nd February 1780! I'm bursting with anticipation because this was a momentous year for dance, my loves! You know how I just can't get enough of those iconic historical performances!
Now, picture this: cobblestone streets, candlelight casting soft shadows, and the alluring strains of a string quartet filling the air. That's the magical setting I'm whisked back to, clad in my signature pink tutu. (It's an absolute show-stopper, my dears, trust me!) My leather rucksack, already brimming with exquisite ballet trinkets from my past journeys, is itching to gather more secrets and stories from this era.
As I journey through time, I feel the enchanting atmosphere of London come alive around me! A city pulsating with artistic expression, just the way I love it! This is a period brimming with dance trends – can you believe, my lovelies, that men were actually dancing on stage alongside the ladies? Yes! They called it ballet d’action - how romantic and delightful, just my style! It was all about storytelling and elegant poses, perfect for my graceful ballerina soul! I imagine the elegant steps, the elegant costumes – pure theatrical bliss!
Of course, one of my favourite things to do in the 1780s is watch Opera Ball performances. These opulent, dazzling gatherings are pure eye candy, with everything from incredible choreography to exquisite costumes, a true ballerina's delight! It's hard to imagine being transported to such a magical era! My trusty notebook overflows with the captivating stories of ballet masters like Noverre, Gluck, and even the great Marie Sallé – her innovative and expressive style is still influencing ballet today, such an inspirational woman!
On a lighter note, I couldn't resist visiting the fashionable boutiques – you know how I adore all things glamorous! This was the era of silk gowns, extravagant jewellery, and, drumroll, please...the Pantomime! This incredible theatrical experience was full of song, dance, comedy – everything I adore, a full-fledged spectacle for my eyes and my heart! Think of ballet and theatrical fun all wrapped up in one!
But hold on tight, darlings, for there's more! This month is all about ballet and Fashion – a dazzling combo! Imagine waltzing in exquisite ballgowns and dancing on shimmering, velvet-covered stages! In the 1780s, panniers and corsets were all the rage, and ladies! These styles created an entirely different silhouette – making it challenging for dancers, but I’m certain they managed it with elegance. Now imagine yourself gliding across the stage in that stunning costume.
You see, my loves, time travelling through dance is an incredible experience that keeps on giving! Not only does it let me see these phenomenal ballet performances first hand, but it allows me to collect unique relics for my Pink Tutu Museum, which you can access on my website. Think about it - a time capsule of ballet history, full of glittering souvenirs, captivating memories, and captivating tales. Oh, the memories we make!
Speaking of the past, remember how I love finding new dancers and giving them a little pink tutu inspiration? This month I’m bringing a little magic from the 1780s into my own contemporary style! I'm adding a touch of 1780s glamour to my wardrobe with flowing tulle, beautiful colours and those majestic silhouettes, with a sprinkle of panache, of course! After all, who can resist the grace of a well-placed corset?
But I must say, even with all this historical exploration, my love of ballet and the modern world is strong! The heart of my pink tutu remains deeply embedded in our era.
Speaking of our era, you will not believe the fabulous ballet performances on right now. A new rendition of Giselle is opening this week, oh how I adore the story of love and the power of nature, my dear! I’ve already secured the best tickets! In a few days, my loves, there’s a fabulous new ballet piece at the London Coliseum that celebrates the elegance of the Renaissance period.
Don’t forget to check out the latest Pink Tutu Dance online class. My monthly tutorials are bursting with tips on how to bring elegance and pink perfection to your dance moves – just the way I like it! This month, it’s a beautiful choreographed duet in the style of the graceful dances of 1780! It will give your body a fabulous ballet workout while giving you all the joy and passion that only a good pink tutu dance can!
Stay tuned for our next journey into the world of dance – where each trip offers something fresh and exhilarating! Let me know what your favourite moments of the 1780s were, dear friends. And never forget to embrace your inner pink tutu dancer! I’ll see you all next month!
Until then, remember, darling… life’s a ballet, so twirl on!
Yours in twirling bliss,
Emma