Welcome back, darlings, to another exciting adventure in time on my blog, www.pink-tutu.com! Today, we're waltzing back to 1810, October 10th, a date that, while perhaps not marked in history books as a pivotal moment in ballet, was absolutely brimming with delightful possibilities! As always, I’ve saddled up Magic Meg, my darling pink sparkling shire horse with those glorious golden hooves, and we're off on a time-traveling spree, my pink tutu swishing gracefully with each magical bound.
Oh, my dears! It was a joy to land in 1810, as soon as we arrived I knew it was going to be a brilliant adventure! I just adore how time periods feel so different from each other, yet the core of the human experience, the joy of dancing and expressing oneself through movement, stays constant. It’s fascinating how different things look in a different era, but as ever I’m making it my mission to share all of this beautiful ballet history and my insights with you in this monthly post.
Now, imagine my delight, when I arrived and found myself in Vienna! This glorious city, the cradle of many incredible things, is a ballerina's dream, don't you think? It’s home to the world famous Vienna State Opera, and a stunning performance of “Der Freischütz” was just getting underway! As I watched, I felt a twinge of longing. The costumes and sets were simply beautiful - such a sophisticated flair! This magical evening has been one of the highlights of my 1810 visit. My rucksack is bulging with details of the play and what was on offer from the costume designs and stage setting ideas. The most magical moment was when the lead dancer took their bow in a full-length, multi-layered tutu, truly the epitome of elegance! Of course, I snapped a couple of photos on my vintage camera for a touch of artistic inspiration back in Derbyshire! It is just divine!
Vienna was a visual feast, my dear! I went for a little saunter around the streets, soaking up the ambience and the architecture. It’s wonderful, with such a graceful, delicate and charming beauty. Everywhere I looked I was struck by the artistry – from the architecture and statues to the details in the shops and windows! And what can we say about the exquisite fashions! With my tutu twirling ever so gently and my trusty pink feathered hat bobbing on top, I simply blended in with this fashion-forward city and its elegant folk. After all, every girl, everywhere needs a little bit of that ‘something’ that’s special, doesn’t she?
Speaking of my little pink feathered hat! Isn’t it darling? I had a marvelous shopping experience in Vienna’s most exclusive millinery store! I can't wait to recreate the hat's style for my next Derbyshire performance - it's so perfect for my pink tutu!
After Vienna, I headed back to England, to London! I knew there was so much ballet-related fun waiting to happen, and, boy, I wasn’t wrong! It is definitely a city on the cusp of change - it felt so lively. But, to be fair, London is always full of such spirit, with that buzz that only this big, grand city can produce!
For me, it’s the ballet and the theatre I’m most excited by, darling. That and, of course, fashion and a cuppa – as I said, a gal has got to stay hydrated and keep up that elegance. This evening I treated myself to an incredibly decadent hot chocolate from a cosy cafe by Covent Garden, and oh! Was it a delightful surprise! The hot chocolate came in a gorgeous delicate porcelain cup with ornate designs and a beautiful matching saucer. In my ballet backpack, of course! It has to stay pristine! This is another one I’ll have recreated by the local ceramicist in Derbyshire, if you don’t mind. I’ll let you know all about how it comes out!
Covent Garden is a real feast for the senses! Not just with theatre, although I admit, it is my all-time favorite spot for getting my ballet fix – but also just looking at all the wares being offered – the vibrant fruit and vegetables! This vibrant space just makes me feel so alive. And, it felt like a world away from Vienna. London has such energy and hustle! There’s no mistaking the London vibe and, in that, it is really unique!
On the theatre side, London’s stage world is all about opera at this time. A performance of "The Barber of Seville” is what has drawn me to London this evening! Again, this is something I must share with you - It’s just so captivating to be at the heart of such grand opera! You could really feel the passion from the performers - a truly uplifting and invigorating performance that filled the entire theatre! The grand stage and costumes gave me all the ‘extra’ drama, darling! It just shows, even with time travel, the spirit of performance continues!
You see? My journey through 1810, dear reader, is proof that you can still get that “oomph” factor, that heart-stopping wonder even when the history books tell you something might not be at its most exciting period. It all just goes to show that excitement, romance, glamour, and adventure - the very things that make us feel alive and truly connected to each other and our history – can be found in so many different forms! Don’t ever underestimate your imagination! As I’ve been flitting between centuries and countries, one thing has stayed constant – the joy, the emotion, and the magic we find in these fantastic artistic experiences – it’s just amazing!
But the day’s not over yet! Tomorrow, we’re venturing to Paris! Can you believe it? Paris in 1810 – my darling readers! I think I need to have a quick nap now to get ready – oh la la! – what shall I wear for this special occasion! That gorgeous light blue silk dress I picked up at Vienna’s main market just seems to call out for my ballet boots.
Join me again, my dears, for another enchanting blog next month where we’ll delve into the sparkling Parisian world of ballet. In the meantime, darling readers, don’t forget to spread the love of pink tutus everywhere you go. Embrace your inner ballerina, be your own unique you and make your life an elegant dance!
Au revoir, chérie! Until next time!
P.S. If you haven’t got around to trying my little dance exercise to wake up each morning with joy - what are you waiting for? Find out more about it, and even purchase the Pink-Tutu morning ballet guide for only a little coin! Get ready to strut and feel great, darlings! Just head to the “Shop” section of my blog at www.pink-tutu.com!
