Oh darling, you simply won't believe the adventure I've just had! I'm absolutely brimming with excitement – this month's time-travelling escapade took me right back to 1806, specifically the 4th of April, a momentous day indeed! It was all thanks to Magic Meg, my gorgeous pink, shimmering shire horse with golden hooves and a flowing white mane and tail. We set off from my little cottage in Derbyshire, and whoosh! We landed smack bang in the heart of Paris! Now, you all know how much I adore Paris, but let's just say 1806 was a whole new world of enchantment.
My trusty leather rucksack, filled with my little ballet notes and sketches, was prepped and ready. Naturally, I was sporting my pink tutu (you just can't leave the house without a pink tutu, can you?). After a delightful carriage ride – what a contrast to my usual ballet class commute – we reached our destination: the stunning Théâtre de l'Opéra!
Can you even imagine? Just the exterior with its opulent Baroque style left me speechless. I felt a tingle of anticipation – the anticipation only a tutu-clad, ballet-loving soul like myself could feel! I simply had to experience what the world of ballet was like in 1806. I floated into the opera house with the grace of a dancer and landed in the elegant, softly-lit theatre.
This grand Parisian theatre had all the charm of a vintage stage, with the most breathtaking architecture. The velvet curtains shimmered in anticipation of the ballet, and the energy in the air crackled with excitement. A feeling of history seeped through the very walls of the theatre – it was thrilling, and slightly overwhelming.
The first act started with a piece by the iconic Jean-Georges Noverre. I was mesmerized! The dancers were so incredibly talented, even though they were adorned with simple white costumes – a far cry from our sparkling and lavish stage attire. They moved with such a controlled, yet natural grace. They really reminded me of those captivating illustrations I love studying – so expressive, so powerful, so emotional!
Then, the performance I'd been eagerly anticipating – La Vestale, by Salvatore Viganò! I simply adored the graceful movement, the dramatic storytelling, the beautiful costuming. The performance felt so personal, so intimate. I was transported to another time and place. It was pure ballet bliss. I knew I just had to find out more about this incredible ballet company.
My little notebook bustled with ideas, and my fingers danced across the pages. Imagine a time where dancers wore shoes with buckles – and they didn't even have ballet pointe shoes yet! Instead, they used padded demi-pointe shoes. A real testament to their flexibility and talent.
But what truly enchanted me were the costumes! So exquisitely detailed! The women, dressed in the quintessential ‘Roman' attire – flowing gowns and togas with an air of both grace and freedom, adorned with the finest silks and jewels. Such a world of opulence! I found out this type of costuming was the 'costume du jour' for this period and had a strong influence on the romantic ballets to come, bringing to life the most ethereal storylines.
I even got to talk to one of the ballerinas afterwards. I must say she was simply stunning - very elegant with the most delicate features. I learned how hard they had to train to develop their technique, but they didn't even have specialised ballet bars then. Imagine! I couldn't wait to show my ballet class all my discoveries back in the present! The Parisian ballerinas of 1806 – so different, yet so familiar – just as devoted to the art as we are today. They really showed me how much ballet has changed over time.
Even the audience felt unique. Men and women flocked to this glamorous event, mesmerized by the dancers' skill. Their outfits were as extravagant as the ballet itself, with silks and furs in every colour imaginable. Such a stunning display of sartorial grandeur! The theatre buzzed with a lively energy - everyone, dressed to the nines, simply absorbed in the captivating beauty of ballet.
It truly felt like a timeless and unforgettable night out. I was completely spellbound by this magnificent performance. The grandeur of the theatre, the skill of the dancers, the romantic atmosphere, it all melted away the years, creating a magical journey for this time-travelling ballerina.
After the show, I took a stroll down the Champs-Élysées with my head held high in my pink tutu and a smile that could light up the whole of Paris. This was a real journey into ballet history and what a delight it was! I even had the chance to pop into the most incredible milliner shop – the hats! They were quite simply stunning and perfect for my vintage ballet collection. I do have to make a note to try and find one for my pink tutu – you can't have a vintage collection without a hat to match!
And of course, my adventure wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the local pâtisserie. I sampled the most delicious pastry – all layers of light, fluffy cake and rich cream – my sweet tooth was absolutely ecstatic! I even found out they are called "macarons" here – don't you just love those sweet names for decadent treats! I do.
As always, I learnt a wealth of fascinating things about the world of ballet from this incredible adventure. From costumes and technique to audience participation, everything was such a captivating reminder of just how captivating this world is. And to be a part of its rich history? A dream come true. I am so lucky to have this incredible pink tutu and my faithful horse Magic Meg who allow me to travel through time, and I know it's a journey I'll continue forever!
Now I’m heading to my little writing nook. The inspiration from this trip is swirling in my head. You'll be seeing a whole lot more about ballet history and my latest fashion finds in my next post!
Don’t forget to check back on www.pink-tutu.com in a month’s time.
Until next time, keep twirling and embracing your inner pink tutu, darling!
Yours eternally,
Emma
