Hello my dearest tutu lovers! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet where we dance through time together, exploring the wondrous world of ballet! This month, I’ve journeyed back to the 10th of October, 1780, with Magic Meg by my side, of course. She’s wearing her favourite pink sparkly saddle cloth – it just seems fitting for the era! 😉
And my darlings, let me tell you, 1780 was a most fascinating time for the world of ballet! It was a time when things were really starting to blossom!
Now, before we dive into the ballet world, let’s talk about my outfit, shall we? Imagine, if you will, a delicate pink tutu, its layers cascading like the most beautiful rose petals. I've adorned it with pearl-like sequins, and I have to say, it's an absolute delight! My corset, too, is pink, its silk a beautiful whisper against my skin. A simple ribbon ties my hair up into a dainty bun, leaving a single pink rose perched precariously but elegantly on the side. This is my quintessential pink-tutu-time-travel ensemble, and I just know it’s perfect for making my grand entrance to 18th century London.
Now, as I arrived at the famous Sadler's Wells theatre (the very place that would later be famed for its ballerinas and become Sadler’s Wells Theatre!) I saw a rather wonderful spectacle – it was bustling with life! People of all walks of life were excited, all heading to see “The English Sailors Triumph” a ballet by, you guessed it, Thomas Hull, one of England’s ballet masters. Hull was the most celebrated dancer of his time, known for his incredible technique, a true showman and pioneer.
And can we talk about the fashion? Oh my dear, 1780s London fashion was just so extravagant! The gentlemen looked absolutely dapper in their breeches and powdered wigs, whilst the ladies were adorned with elegant dresses and elaborate hairstyles that would make any contemporary stylist jealous. It was truly an era of high style, and even I was tempted to buy myself a new fan – I just love the elaborate, detailed ones.
As for the ballet itself – it was simply captivating! It celebrated English maritime strength, a very fashionable and topical theme during this time. I could almost feel the excitement as the dancers leaped and twirled, portraying sailors, their movements elegant, strong, and captivating. Even the choreography, full of precise steps, was ahead of its time! The ballet had it all - grace, strength, and theatricality, even the staging was very theatrical.
Speaking of theatricality – this was the golden age of pantomimes! It’s just fascinating, a time of the most incredible and expressive dancers – what I’d give to be transported to one of these theatrical shows!
After my show at Sadler’s Wells, Magic Meg and I ventured through the bustling city streets of London. I discovered some wonderful shops selling ballet shoes, quite a bit more sturdy than the modern ballet shoes, as you can imagine. It turns out that the dancers back then didn't have the luxury of pointe shoes. However, they used what was available: the ballet slippers were hand stitched and made with a very thick, soft leather. Quite sturdy – those dancers must have been a tough bunch!
I saw so many stunning ladies wearing their very best, I thought it was perfectly fair to offer to help with a few tips for some new tutu-related outfits for them, so that we could spread the love of pink – just imagine a whole line of pink tutus, and beautiful, flowing silk garments with pink accents! Dreams can come true.
It’s no surprise that I came home with an entire bag full of interesting tidbits, stories, and even some beautifully ornate costumes from the era! You know, the kind of things you’d simply love to find when rummaging through a vintage store. I even picked up a little ballet shoe, probably a ballerina's old favourite that had worn away through endless rehearsals! Now that is a story for the ages!
Oh, but don’t worry! I did bring home a little souvenir for you - “The English Sailors Triumph” a newly published script! It was so interesting to see all the notes for the dancing – I’m sure some of it is the origin of ballet terms that we use today!
So, my dears, what are your thoughts on 1780? Did you know this was a pivotal year for ballet?
As I sit down to write, a bit of inspiration has struck! My tutu loving readers, if any of you are wanting to dress in true ballet fashion, what colours will you be wearing, and how will you accessorize?
Don't forget to check out my next blog for my travels into the glorious world of dance – let's spread the pink, the twirls, and the fun of ballet! Until next time!
With much love and twirls,
Emma.
* www.pink-tutu.com *
