Dearest readers,
Welcome to my little corner of the internet, dedicated to all things pink, twirling and, of course, ballet! This month, my fabulous pink tutu and I have journeyed back in time, right into the heart of 1804, and let me tell you, it's a vibrant time for dance!
Today marks April 4th, and I've landed smack-bang in the midst of Parisian ballet history. I'm standing in the grand, beautiful Theatre de l'Opéra, with its sweeping staircases and a feeling of opulence that's simply intoxicating. It's the home of the Paris Opera Ballet, and I'm brimming with excitement! I mean, can you even imagine what's waiting for me inside?
It's all thanks to my trusty companion, Magic Meg, a shire horse with a personality as sparkling as her golden hooves and a mane like spun moonlight. You wouldn't believe the look on the faces of the carriage drivers when I rode into town on my pink sparkling pony!
My little leather rucksack is already packed to the brim with notes from yesterday’s explorations. I found out that the first official "ballet master" for the Paris Opera Ballet was appointed this year - Jean-Georges Noverre, and guess what? His ballet, "Psyché," debuted here just last month, making this a time of groundbreaking performances! I must confess, dear readers, that seeing this stunning ballet myself was a real highlight of my journey. The dancers, though bound by tighter, more ornate costumes, possessed such an elegant power!
The air here in Paris is filled with excitement for the ballet. Just this month, the "Ballet of the Gods," starring renowned dancer, Rose Adelaide Leontine Bourgeois was an absolute smash hit! Imagine, a full-fledged ballet based on Greek mythology – and that in a time when stories and dances about Gods and Goddesses were in vogue. There's nothing like the passion for theatre and art, a vibrant spirit which makes me believe everyone in this time wears their hearts on their sleeves. Just think, the next few days are brimming with performances; "La Fête du Parterre" (celebrating the stage) and the "Ballet du Village" - a peasant dance ballet – oh my, how enchanting it sounds! I simply must find time to see these before I set off on my next adventure.
As always, I must confess to my own little shopping spree! A trip to a "magazin" (that’s their word for department store!) brought me the most delightful treasures - a pair of pink silk slippers, delicate enough for a fairy, a lovely pink ribbon, a beautiful little hat decorated with velvet pink roses and feathers and of course, an opulent fan made from delicate feathers and a silver handle! You wouldn't believe how many pretty silks they've got here – pink of course is my absolute favourite colour and they had so many beautiful textures, fabrics and designs. Oh and I got an antique hand mirror to hold in my dressing room!
I’ll spend tomorrow exploring the ballet studios! I hear some young ballerinas will be performing "Les Amours d’un Faucheur" (a romantic love story) in their first ever recital - how nerve wracking, I do admire their bravery! I shall watch them practice. The Parisian style, I hear, is known for being graceful and precise, so I cannot wait to discover its secrets! I hope to have time to find the theatre where, legend has it, Jean-Georges Noverre's "Lettres sur la Danse" was first printed in the 1760s, but alas, only the Lord of Time knows where it is! Perhaps, the universe will conspire to reveal its location. It would be simply wonderful to discover more about him - as he’s a true giant of ballet history.
I will be keeping an eye out for Madame Tallien, the iconic dancer. What a story she has - a survivor of the French Revolution who made her name through dance and became a political figure - an absolute icon. I would simply adore to meet her!
Now, off I go! My ballet time-traveling heart is pounding with the rhythm of this historical ballet era!
So, darling readers, until next time, remember to wear your hearts on your sleeves and twirl with the wind! And remember to pop your dancing shoes on and dance with the spirit of this wondrous age.
Much love,
Emma
P.S. If you ever have a moment, please do have a little look around my online haven – www.pink-tutu.com - I am always thrilled to see a new face!
P.P.S. I just LOVE hearing your comments! What would you ask me to seek out if you had the chance to travel to the 19th century? Maybe some ancient ballet footwear?
