Hello darlings! Emma here, ready to whisk you away on another delightful ballet escapade through time. This month, my pink tutu and I are shimmying our way to the 7th of July 1788 - a date that finds us amidst the swirling elegance of Parisian ballet!
Now, let’s get the outfit right, shall we? A swathe of pink silk, delicate as spun sugar, cascading into a tutu that's practically a cloud. My corset, a vision of ivory lace, cinches my waist into a perfect hourglass, and atop my head sits a cascade of curls, a miniature cloud of rosy tendrils framing my face. Magic Meg, my beautiful pink sparkling Shire, whinnies in agreement, her golden hooves and flowing white mane adding a touch of majesty to my already breathtaking ensemble! And let’s not forget my leather rucksack - it’s overflowing with treasures I've collected from the time period. Just imagine - a handwritten score of an 18th-century ballet, a vintage pair of silk ballet slippers, and a delicate fan that once graced the hands of a celebrated ballerina!
The 7th of July finds me nestled in the bustling heart of Paris. The scent of lavender drifts on the breeze, mingling with the vibrant chatter of Parisian society. Today’s event is something truly special - a grand premiere of the opera ballet, La Dévotion de Cécile at the beautiful Salle des Machines, the magnificent glass and iron palace housing the theatre.
Before the show, I am enchanted by the lively, vibrant costumes! There's a joyous abundance of ribbons and bows, all a riot of colours and textures - imagine silks the colour of a sunset, satins like the wings of a butterfly, velvets rich and deep as chocolate. The men are equally striking, sporting ruffled shirts, breeches in hues of sapphire and emerald, and coats bedecked with lace and embroidery. The ballet company themselves, in their colourful costumes of swirling skirts, plumed hats and dramatic makeup, are truly a vision to behold!
The stage, lit by an ethereal candlelight, seems to beckon, promising magic and wonder. My pulse quickens as the orchestra begins its melodious symphony, the music weaving its way through the ornate theater and enveloping the entire room in a captivating soundscape. As the curtains part, I gasp! The dancers are like figures from a dream - their graceful movements transfixing my attention. I'm captivated by the delicate steps, the breathtaking leaps and turns, all carried out with a rare finesse and control that speaks volumes of their artistic passion and dedication. The choreography, elegant and ethereal, portrays a tender story of love, betrayal, and ultimately, forgiveness, bringing a poignant note to the performance.
But tonight's ballet is far more than just a show. It's an explosion of vibrant life and history unfolding before my eyes! This is where I find myself right at the cusp of the era that would change the face of French ballet - a transitional period that sees ballet taking on a more fluid, dramatic form.
In the years before this, French ballet was heavily influenced by Italian theatrical styles and incorporated many grand courtly traditions into their work. Now, we're witnessing a subtle shift - ballet is shedding its formality and embracing greater expressiveness, a move towards capturing more deeply emotive nuances.
As I sit there, my heart soaring with each elegant leap, I realize this night isn't just about witnessing ballet, it’s about experiencing history! The ballet scene was abuzz with excitement, anticipation, and an undisputed love for the artform that continues to fascinate the world. Tonight, I was not just a spectator, I was part of this exciting ballet universe.
Leaving the theater that evening, with my mind overflowing with beauty, I pause at a cafe for a spot of hot chocolate and a slice of pastel de nata, a delicious Portuguese pastry. The city lights dance and glimmer as I lose myself in a sketch book, drawing and noting down everything from the elaborate designs on the theater, to the intricate choreography I had seen onstage. What an extraordinary journey - what incredible inspiration!
It's this energy, this vibrant love for dance and the beautiful legacy it offers that makes this world of ballet such an enduring joy to experience, whether in a 1788 French theater or at a modern-day performance. And don't forget, darlings - wherever I go, I spread my passion for pink. So get your own pink tutus ready and join me in embracing the vibrant, enchanting world of ballet - you won't regret it!
See you next month, with another exciting trip back in time!
Don’t forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for more of my time travelling adventures!
Yours in dance,
Emma xx
