Hello, my darlings! Emma here, and it's time for another magical jaunt through time with your favourite pink tutu-wearing, history-loving, ballerina blogger!
This month, I'm whisking us all back to the 7th of July 1819, a time when powdered wigs were still in vogue, the French Revolution was a fading memory, and, my dears, ballet was absolutely blooming! It's quite a glamorous period, filled with lavish court balls, glittering costumes and oh-so-grand operas. And who's going with us on this escapade? Why, my darling, magical Meg, of course!
Pink Sparkle Power: Just as I donned my most vibrant pink tulle tutu, Meg shimmered into view, her golden hooves catching the sunlight, a mane of pearly white billowing in the breeze, her pink sparkling coat practically shouting, "Let's time travel, darling!"
We were off! The world blurred around us, and with a final whinny, we arrived! Ah, the aroma of the time; a delicate perfume of sandalwood, beeswax and a hint of pipe tobacco. So decadent!
London, A Theatre's Delight: I landed right in the heart of London, near the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, a jewel box of theatrical delight. Just imagine it, darlings, a theatre alive with a glittering performance of "Don Giovanni," an opera ballet by the one and only Salvatore Viganò. What a master! It's a story about intrigue, seduction and, well, let's just say it involves a certain charming – and decidedly naughty! - Don.
But let's not dwell on the gentlemanly charm. Oh no, I’ve been reading all about ballet’s rise to prominence. And 1819, you see, was quite the pivotal year!
A New Dance Era: Ballet was making huge strides. The Italian Ballet had brought a wave of new ideas and styles, like the "détourné," which involved skipping gracefully sideways – it was all the rage. Ballet dancers like the famous Carlo Blasis, were shaping the art form with incredible, detailed instruction manuals that taught young hopefuls all the intricacies of footwork and elegant carriage.
As I wandered through the bustling streets, I had to stop to take in all the shops with their beautifully crafted hats, and delicate silk fabrics – they all whispered tales of an era obsessed with refined aesthetics, so elegant and captivating.
Finding the Magic: After a delightful luncheon at a little French patisserie, it was time for my main mission: to soak up the atmosphere of the era, to delve into its hidden stories, and, of course, to gather some vintage gems for my rucksack, which was filled with stories, sketches, and even some genuine 1800s pointe shoes! (Imagine the tales they could tell!)
One story, darling, was especially poignant. Imagine a young dancer in a dusty rehearsal hall, practicing endlessly, perfecting a "chassé." Her ambition was not simply a desire for recognition or glory, it was an embodiment of artistic devotion. In the dim light of a candle, a silent passion fueled her relentless pursuit of excellence.
The Importance of Beauty: And the dance! Oh, it's a fascinating dance era, my lovelies, where elegance and graceful movements took center stage. This is an era when even men learned how to dance properly! Their shoes were designed to enhance the lines and graceful steps of their dance, and those iconic powdered wigs! Well, they certainly added an element of aristocratic regality!
And who can forget the beautiful fabrics of the era! Velvet, silk, and satin - such luxurious textures, colors that shimmered like precious jewels! Imagine a grand ball, my dears! It was an exquisite world of romance and allure. I couldn't resist picking up some samples of satin and velvet – they were far too tempting! I just love adding those extra details to my outfits!
Time for Tutu-Time: As I wandered by a carriage filled with beautifully dressed ladies, they couldn't help but turn their heads, glancing with amusement at my pink tutu – quite the unexpected spectacle on the cobblestone streets of London, I'm sure you'll agree! It's almost as if it was whispering to them, "Step outside the box, and unleash your inner ballerina! Everyone can wear a pink tutu!"
A Little Bit of Inspiration: This trip has given me such inspiration for my next performance, darling. My vision for the dance will be a dance of elegance, of stories whispered in silk, and a dash of 1819 Parisian chic! Oh my dears, we need to remember that there's something special about every period!
But darling, this blog is already longer than the last! So, let me sign off for now! Do drop by my website www.pink-tutu.com to see more photos of my magical journey!
Until next time, lovelies! Stay pink!
Emma xx
