Hello my lovely tutu-lovers! It's Emma here, back from another thrilling time travel adventure. As always, my faithful steed, Magic Meg, a shimmering pink Shire horse with golden hooves and a flowing white mane, was my trusty companion, carrying me on this latest journey into the past. This month we took a whirl back to 1820, specifically July the 7th, and oh my goodness, did we have a ball! I felt like a perfectly-pink princess in a fairytale as we landed smack-dab in the heart of Paris, a city bursting with excitement and creativity!
This time, my rucksack was brimming with vintage dance shoes, a beautiful silk shawl perfect for a ballet costume, and a few antique sketches of some very dramatic ballet steps. My little heart fluttered with anticipation – after all, 1820 in Paris meant one thing: The Paris Opera! This year, they were hosting a truly special ballet – "La Sylphide" by the great Filippo Taglioni. This ballet, I've got to tell you, is considered a landmark in ballet history! It's like the big bang of romantic ballet – with its emphasis on graceful, lyrical movements, the ethereal character of the Sylph (an air spirit) and a thrilling tale of unrequited love, this ballet swept the city off its feet.
Just imagining all those ladies with their feathered hats and billowing dresses, gathered in the plush Opera House, watching the dancers gracefully float and leap across the stage. Honestly, I wished I could have been there, pirouetting in a pink tutu amongst them. But never fear, my dear readers! I didn't just hang around the opera house, taking mental notes for my next tutu collection. I soaked in the vibrant energy of Parisian streets. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as carriages jostled their way through bustling crowds, each window showcasing the latest fashions, all beautifully adorned with lace and ribbon, which reminded me of the romantic style of "La Sylphide."
Now, imagine my delight when I stumbled upon a lovely little millinery shop. I just couldn’t resist picking up a few exquisite pink feathers – perfectly soft, you know? – to decorate my new tutu for a future time travel trip.
Now, a word on fashion. Remember when I said that "La Sylphide" is a big deal in ballet? Well, this ballet had a huge influence on fashion! It led to a new trend in dancing: The 'ballet slipper', and with that, came the 'ballet fashion.' This meant simple dresses, delicate lines, soft fabrics, and lighter colours for the ladies. Just picture those graceful silhouettes twirling and floating in the soft hues of pastel pink, light blue and shimmering white, all designed for airy, balletic movement! And I am not shy in saying – Pink ruled this fashion scene, making it a total paradise for this pink-loving tutu fanatic!
But there's more to life than fashion! Of course, my trip wouldn't be complete without a bit of history. I popped into the ballet school where the lovely Mademoiselle Taglioni, a ballerina who would become an absolute star, was receiving her early training. What a little firecracker she was! I was so charmed by her grace and elegance.
While the history buffs in you may already know that ballet's roots are in France, did you know that in 1820, the whole world was getting excited about ballet? We were starting to see ballets being performed not just in Paris, but in Vienna, Berlin, and London. Just imagine! The elegant pirouettes, leaps and grace were thrilling audiences worldwide!
You know me – my trip wouldn't be complete without finding inspiration for my next big ballet performance. So, naturally, I watched a performance of "La Sylphide." Now, this wasn’t the lavish production with full scenery we see today. In fact, it was performed in a little theater on a platform stage – something much smaller than I’m used to seeing back in modern times! But, even then, the audience was enthralled. I just love seeing how ballet has evolved! I also had a good time catching some street dancing too - the music was simple, but the joy on everyone’s faces as they twirled and moved was inspiring.
So, my lovely readers, what did you make of my 1820s Parisian ballet adventure? I can't wait to tell you all about my next journey - who knows where I'll be travelling next month? But one thing’s for sure: Pink tutus and time travel are an absolutely perfect pairing!
Until then, keep dancing, and be sure to wear your pink tutu with pride!
Lots of love,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
