#BalletHistory during 1800 09 September

Hey everyone, and welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels! It’s Emma here, ready to whisk you off on another magical journey through time! September's here, and the air is already crisp with the promise of autumn, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting to twirl in a new pink tutu – even if it’s just around my Derbyshire farmhouse. Speaking of tutus, have you seen my latest one? It’s a softest shade of rose with shimmering pink sequins and a gorgeous puff skirt! Perfect for travelling through time, if I do say so myself.

But where are we going this month? Well, this time, dear readers, I'm transporting us back to 9th September 1800, a time when the world of ballet was beginning to blossom! Remember, we're on a mission to get everyone wearing pink tutus! Who knows, perhaps a spark of inspiration is waiting for us amongst the historical ballet happenings!

Buckle up, and get ready to meet Magic Meg, my sparkling pink Shire horse with a mane and tail as white as freshly fallen snow. She has golden hooves – what better mode of transport could you wish for?

Let's go! 💫

Arriving in London, it's quite the scene – carriages clip-clopping through the cobblestone streets, and the air smells faintly of roasted chestnuts and damp autumn leaves. It's vibrant, but still so very different to the 21st century!

Here in 1800, we find the ballet scene already developing its own unique character. The iconic King's Theatre is alive with activity, where ballet's big stars – think Auguste Vestris, Charles Didelot, and the captivating Marie-Madeleine Guimard - are thrilling audiences with their dazzling skills. These were the years of elegant waltzes, where flowing skirts and gentle movements defined the graceful style. And can you imagine – in those days, it was a woman’s privilege to hold the upper hand on the dance floor, setting the tempo of the waltz! How revolutionary!

Now, while exploring, I popped into the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane - quite a magnificent building with a breathtaking facade. And while the theatrical productions are incredible, the ballet isn’t quite on the same level, more a playful addition to the larger drama. You can practically feel the change in the air - it’s almost like the audience expects the dancers to be like the diminutive figures you see in early paintings. Perhaps their expectations are yet to evolve.

As we meander through London's charming streets, my eyes light up at the sights! Pink hues are everywhere! Even if the fashions weren’t precisely “pink tutu” worthy, there are so many amazing inspiration pieces.

Look at these exquisitely crafted bonnets - a burst of pink silk tied with velvet ribbons, some even featuring delicately-placed ostrich plumes! Oh, and those beautifully beaded stoles - the perfect way to add a pop of pink colour to any ensemble. But I confess, it’s the elegant dresses, often with pink frills at the hemline or lace inserts, that have really captured my attention.

My heart flutters as I imagine how a ballet dancer could embody that same flair for elegance in a beautifully-crafted pink tutu. This is exactly why I love exploring historical periods - the fashion provides so many unique inspirations, don’t you think?

Later in the day, we’re lucky to gain entry to a prestigious ballet academy. Imagine my surprise when, after walking through the grand halls, I’m met with a group of graceful dancers, practicing their arabesques and pliés in their modest, plain tunics. So beautiful!

I gather stories and ideas in my leather rucksack. You won't believe the detail – I learned so much about the rigid training they endured!

This, my dear readers, is exactly the kind of inspiration I love finding in my time travels. Not only can I see the sheer skill, passion, and determination, but also the artistry of the form! Perhaps, just perhaps, my time travels will play a part in inspiring a world full of beautiful pink tutus - just think of the creative possibilities!

In the evening, we head to the Royal Opera House, a marvel of a structure! I have heard rumours that this opera house will be built one day in the future and that I have a tiny, but extremely important, role to play in the design. So excited!

My dear Magic Meg even got to snoop around the back, where she was fascinated with the bustling life backstage. My little dancer’s heart pumps with excitement as I hear stories of the incredible operas and ballets that have taken to its stage. It’s a thrilling scene, full of life!

This evening, I get to witness a “The Seraglio,” a magical work from Mozart's early operas. Even in 1800, it was a staple of this great house! What I wouldn’t give to see the performances on this same stage through the eyes of these people!

As the final notes of the opera ring through the air, I find myself captivated by the elegance, the theatricality, and the pure power of this art form! What an unforgettable night!

This glimpse of ballet life in 1800 was truly spectacular! Remember, dear readers, there is always more to discover in the rich tapestry of history - each journey a new adventure for a pink-loving, tutu-wearing girl like myself.

But that's all for this month's blog, as we've barely scratched the surface!

What’s next for Pink Tutu Travels? Well, that’s for you to decide! Let me know in the comments below what time period you’d like to visit next!

Stay stylish and, most importantly, don’t forget your pink tutu! Until next time! 💖

See you on www.pink-tutu.com next month!