Hello, my lovelies! Emma here, back with another tantalising trip through ballet history! This month, I'm whipping my pink tutu into a frenzy with a journey to the glorious year 1812! Buckle up, darling, because we're taking off for September 9th - get your rose-tinted spectacles ready!
This month's trip is extra special, because I managed to squeeze in a show! It's a good thing my ballet performances are keeping me flush, because it allowed me to book some tickets at the London Opera House, and guess what?! A whole ballet program dedicated to the beautiful choreography of Salvatore Viganò! I absolutely adore the grace of his works, and imagine the wonder of seeing it live. I even brought a little memento back with me for my rucksack - a charming program from the evening, with a picture of Viganò himself. My rucksack is now practically bursting, darling, with such wonderful trinkets!
Now, September 9th, 1812… it was a grand occasion indeed! Whilst Europe was reeling from Napoleon's war machine (shudders, a very stressful time!), ballet was blossoming in Paris, darling! I made sure Magic Meg (my stunning pink shire horse, who has the most dazzling golden hooves you've ever seen!), galloped us right to the very heart of Parisian society! You simply must imagine a city draped in swirling waltz dresses and elaborate feathered bonnets! Parisian ladies were particularly fascinated with their elaborate headdresses this year, it was a riot of colour, jewels and creativity! Oh darling, I absolutely had to purchase a vintage feather boa for my own collection from a delightful milliner in a small shop right on the Rue de la Paix.
Now, it is my duty to let you in on a little secret: did you know the term “ballet blanc” (white ballet) was popularized by dancers during this period?! It signified the beautiful airy grace and gentle fluttering that typified this type of choreography. Isn't it wonderful? My dearest love for pink may sway a little in favour of a perfectly pristine white tutu after hearing this… it seems quite exquisite, doesn’t it?
Of course, while the grand French were twirling in a beautiful dance of “ballet blanc,” there was something else stirring in the ballet world, a bit closer to home. Oh, darling, this is a truly thrilling fact! September 9th in Derbyshire saw the premiere of "The Witch of Edmonton"! Now, I have to confess that I love historical dramas, but, honestly, dear readers, "The Witch of Edmonton" is hardly a light and frothy ballet, more of a tragedy - think Shakespeare in his most grim mood! Honestly, who doesn't adore a good tale of magic and the darker side of human nature?
As my tour de force came to an end, it was so much fun imagining those early ballets! All the tutus might not have been quite pink yet, darling (alas!) but their spirit of grace and loveliness certainly carried through time, right here into my lovely heart! So remember, darlings, don't be afraid to be a little bold with colour! If I can wear a pink tutu in 1812, you can certainly rock a splash of pink anywhere and anytime, no matter where time takes you! And be sure to follow my journey next month for another thrilling voyage into ballet history.
Until then, stay beautiful, and never stop dreaming of dancing,
Love, Emma
P.S. Do not forget to subscribe to my website www.pink-tutu.com for a monthly dose of ballet history, style and, of course, all things pink!
