#BalletHistory during 1820 12 December

Hello, darling tutu lovers! Emma here, ready to whisk you away on another magical time-travel adventure, courtesy of my fabulous pink steed, Magic Meg! This month, we’re waltzing our way back to 12th December, 1820, a date overflowing with captivating ballet moments.

Grab your tutus, darling, because this one's a real doozy! The air is crisp with December chill, yet the warmth of anticipation for ballet performances is palpable, making the whole world feel just a little bit twirly.

I've got my leather rucksack packed with a new silk ballet slipper to add to my collection – pink, of course – and a charming little porcelain doll ballerina to remind me of this exquisite day. As always, I'm wearing my very favourite pink tulle tutu. It's such a joy to imagine the sheer wonder of tutus throughout history. This particular creation of mine features some beautiful floral lace and has that slightly bohemian air.

Now, onto the big question! What exactly was happening in the ballet world on this glorious 12th of December in 1820?

• Paris: In the very heart of French ballet, a performance at the Opéra de Paris captivated audiences. On stage, the enchanting La Belle et la Bête, the story of Beauty and the Beast, enthralled. Imagine! The dramatic interplay of costumes and movement would have been spectacular! My dear friend Madeleine, an aspiring ballerina with a flair for the theatrical, would have been a little envious, no doubt!

• Vienna: The ballet world of Vienna was abuzz with talk of a new ballet company, the “K.K. Hoftheater.” I've heard that these talented dancers are known for their elegant and graceful technique. Think grand jetés and a delicate style with flowing lines, quite the opposite of today's contemporary powerhouses, I expect.

• St. Petersburg: Across the vastness of Russia, the Imperial Theatre, under the guidance of the esteemed ballet master, Charles Didelot, had an extraordinary premiere of "Le Réveil d'Andromède" – The Awakening of Andromeda. I bet the audience gasped in wonder at the creative storytelling through dance! It reminds me of some of the magical moments I witnessed during a visit to a spectacular contemporary production of "Cinderella," set in an old Victorian house.

Today, we’re taking inspiration from these beautiful stories in history. Imagine the passion of those early ballets! The creativity! The passion! I love seeing how fashion changed through the ages - there’s an artfulness to it that connects to our lives today.

This month, I'm feeling particularly inspired by the “Belle et la Bête.” My upcoming production is all about exploring love, trust, and overcoming fears through a blend of lyrical movement and playful humour. I am excited about a new custom-designed costume in shades of pink and lavender, which echoes the Belle’s beauty. Maybe it will have some flowing lace or a bit of shimmering velvet!

And, I’m thinking of incorporating a magical moment during my show where a ballerina transforms from a young woman to a princess of grace and strength. Perhaps I'll use some beautifully ethereal silk – light, airy, almost dream-like – and drape it gracefully around her body. It might even include a hint of the Beast’s fierce power – strong black tulle contrasting with the delicate pinks and whites of my leading lady’s dress.

Now, time for a bit of backstage magic! To ensure my next ballet is truly unforgettable, I’m taking a page out of the history books. Magic Meg will be galloping me to a lovely little antique shop just down the road, with a beautiful window full of ballet items – antique shoes, ballet slippers, and the odd pink tutu here and there, all from a forgotten era. Who knows what I'll find tucked away on those shelves?

You'll be able to read all about my latest ballet adventures on www.pink-tutu.com, my very own ballet blog. Come along for the ride, darlings. I can’t wait to see you in your pink tutus at the next show!

Your loving pink tutu girl, Emma xx

(Don't forget, I'm raising funds for my next adventure, and donations can be made to [link to donation page]. Every contribution helps bring these wonderful moments to life!)