Hello my darlings! Welcome back to another month of time-travelling adventures on www.pink-tutu.com. I’m Emma, your trusty tutu-wearing time traveller from the Peak District. I’ve been away flitting through the eras again, this time finding myself transported right into the heart of 18th century Paris! As a seasoned ballet fanatic, I just couldn’t resist the chance to witness a real-life spectacle, one which laid the foundation for what we know as ballet today: The first ever performance of "Le Ballet d'Action" at the Royal Academy of Music in Paris.
Oh, how I adore the fashion of the period! Imagine ladies of high society draped in luxurious satin gowns, with their hair adorned with feathers and sparkling jewels, taking in a show that truly pushed the boundaries of theatre. I’m already dreaming of recreating some of the styles in my next costume creations, which, by the way, I have a feeling will be pink with the most exquisite feathers and beads! Just wait until you see them!
Anyway, back to our time-travelling escapades. This historical event had my inner dancer leaping for joy, quite literally! As Magic Meg – my stunning pink shire horse with a mane and tail of purest white, gleaming golden hooves, and a whole lot of sparkle - galloped through the streets of Paris, I could feel the buzz of excitement and intrigue all around me. Everyone, from the street vendors to the elegant gentlemen, were buzzing about "Le Ballet d'Action" - the newest talk of the town. The excitement in the air was almost tangible!
Upon entering the elegant Royal Academy of Music, a real spectacle unfolded before me. Imagine the scene: opulent decor, a grand chandelier casting twinkling lights upon a star-studded audience. The dancers, graceful and strong, performed with a passion that could move the heart of even the most indifferent onlooker. And wouldn’t you know it, the programme was full of thrilling tales: love, intrigue, and betrayal, all set against a backdrop of music and dance!
As a professional dancer and lover of all things pink and fluffy, the outfits left me speechless! The dancers, dressed in costumes far from the romanticised versions we are used to seeing today, wore garments of lavish silks and intricate embellishments. One particular dancer, an ethereal beauty with eyes like starlit sapphires, moved with such a fluidity that it took my breath away. In that moment, it felt as if the world dissolved away and the stage became my sole reality. I was totally mesmerized, completely swept up in the captivating artistry of it all.
After the show, the real highlight arrived. This is where my leather rucksack came in handy! Imagine my delight when I was able to talk to the dancer, a real treat for someone with my love for the ballet. As the stars twinkled overhead and Magic Meg stood patiently nearby, I learned all about her experience of "Le Ballet d'Action." From the arduous training schedule to the demanding performances, this was the first step in transforming ballet from the opulent spectacle of royalty, to an artform that would become a global phenomenon, something truly close to my heart!
And wouldn’t you know it, she had some stories! Her excitement as a ballerina, and the passion with which she described her life’s devotion to the art, sparked an almost tangible feeling of shared experience, a sisterhood in the pursuit of elegance and expression! In the blink of an eye, I found myself caught up in her fascinating journey, absorbing the stories and snippets of dance history that will help enrich my ballet classes and performance schedule!
Now, as a true pink tutu devotee, you just know I had to do a little shopping on the way home! The fashion here in 18th Century Paris is absolutely divine, and while there is a clear shortage of tutus - a trend I must address! - the shops overflow with beautiful materials, sequins, feathers and jewels! It's enough to inspire even the most seasoned crafter. This year, my performances are going to be nothing short of dazzling! Just wait until you see me!
Oh! My readers, don't forget to share this with your fellow ballet lovers, and if you haven't signed up to www.pink-tutu.com yet, then what are you waiting for?! Tell me, what was your favourite ballet performance and tell me what makes the ballet so special to you. I'd love to hear about your personal ballet stories, so do tell!
Until next month, my darlings! Keep those tutus pink and your spirits bright!
Love and pirouettes,
Emma
P.S. Did I mention the amazing pastry shops I found in Paris? If you ever visit Paris, go to Laduree. Trust me. You won't regret it!
