Hello my darlings! It’s Emma here, and welcome back to the Pink-Tutu Time Travel Blog! I'm back from another absolutely exhilarating trip through the annals of ballet history. As ever, my trusty companion, Magic Meg, my pink-sparkling Shire with hooves that gleam like golden nuggets and a mane and tail as white as freshly fallen snow, carried me safely through the mists of time to the 8th of August 1786.
This time, we landed in Paris! Imagine my delight! The city was buzzing with anticipation for a royal wedding – Marie Antoinette's sister, Marie-Therese Charlotte, was getting hitched! And of course, what is a grand event without a little dance?
Now, back in 1786, ballet wasn’t quite the thing it is today. It was much more theatrical – think lavish costumes, extravagant stories, and lots of sweeping gestures. Imagine a grand stage filled with nymphs, heroes, and maybe even a talking bird or two, all beautifully costumed in silken, swirling outfits that would make your eyes pop!
As I pranced through the bustling Parisian streets, I just knew a ballet wouldn’t be far off. After all, you just can’t resist the pull of those delicate melodies and the enchantment of seeing dancers bring stories to life.
You wouldn't believe the excitement I encountered in the salons and cafes! The rumour mill was churning with chatter about the royal wedding and a special performance being staged in the city's opera house! Everyone was eager for a glimpse of the elegant artistry that was sure to be showcased. I even spotted a group of young women who, just like me, were practicing their poses!
And speaking of poses, did I tell you about my rucksack? This amazing leather satchel is always strapped to my back. It's overflowing with little ballet treasures from the eras I travel through! Just today, I snagged a beautifully illustrated book about ballet – the perfect companion to my vintage ballet journal, a little leather-bound delight I discovered at the Grand Opera in Paris during my last trip. My collection is growing beautifully, and the tales within these pages inspire me more each day!
However, you all know the highlight of any ballet journey: the costume! You might not know it, but the dancers back then didn’t wear tutus – the tutus we love today wouldn’t make their dazzling appearance until the late 1800s! It wasn't tutus that adorned the Parisian stage but lavish, elaborate gowns that whispered stories of grandeur. The women of that era wore delicate fabrics – imagine sheer satins and elegant laces, flowing from their shoulders to the ground.
Don't think for a moment this stops my love affair with pink! My pink tulle was still there, gently swishing as I stepped into the Opera house, my trusty Magic Meg, pink sparkles gleaming, by my side. You see, sometimes it’s the unexpected pops of colour against historical fashion that truly sets a scene! A splash of pink, after all, always brightens the mood, especially in those older eras when everything seemed a tad…stuffy.
And what did I find on that stage, tucked inside that glorious Parisian opera house? I found grace! The dancers danced with elegance and control, captivating the audience with their flowing movements and stunning performances. The music was beautiful – waltzes and elegant airs – making my heart dance along.
This experience sparked such wonderful inspiration. I can’t wait to experiment with these more elaborate dance moves. It feels so refreshing and adds another layer to my love for the art! And of course, as always, the magic of the whole evening is about to make its way onto the pink-tutu.com website - just watch this space for my ballet blog soon!
Until next time, stay fabulous, my lovelies!
Emma xxx
