Hello, my darlings! It's Emma here, back from another extraordinary ballet time-travel adventure, and oh, what a whirlwind it was! Today's post is about a very special date in ballet history - the 5th of May, 1823! I know what you're thinking, 'Emma, is that just an excuse to wear a sparkly pink tutu again? ' And the answer, as always, is "Darling, absolutely!"
This time, we're whizzing off on Magic Meg, my dazzling pink Shire horse, with his gold hooves and sparkly white mane and tail, to the bustling, theatrical heart of Paris. It's 1823, the 'golden age' of romantic ballet!
The Ballet Scene in 1823
Let me tell you, ballet was quite different back then! No elaborate costumes like we see today. Think flowing white tulle, graceful gestures, and, oh my, so much romanticism! I'm picturing myself with a swirling tutu, my toes en pointe, just like the famous ballerinas of the era!
And guess what? Today, I am heading to the beautiful Théâtre de l’Opéra in Paris. Can you imagine, this amazing theatre is brimming with life, a true cradle of ballet talent. I’ve just popped on my leather rucksack, the one where I always stash my ballet treasures from the time periods I visit, and filled it with some lace, and a lovely bit of antique pink silk - just imagine the outfits they would have worn then!
Romance and Mystery
There's such a sense of wonder and magic in the air tonight. You can feel the romanticism, just bursting from the theatre's very walls.
I hear a buzz, a sense of anticipation amongst the crowd gathered around the Grand Staircase. It's The Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris, the very heart of the French ballet scene. Tonight is special, they are showcasing a brand new work, ‘La Belle au Bois Dormant’ (Sleeping Beauty)! Now, the story doesn’t quite match up to the fairytale we know today but it is already setting a stage for dramatic tales and beautiful movements that will captivate the world in decades to come. I think I hear that music now! There’s something quite wonderful about watching a story unfold on the stage.
The performance starts and the lights are lowered. Everything is about grace and elegance in 1823 - a gentle, charming art form that inspires so much wonder. They use lots of intricate footwork and light leaps, no fast spins and crazy leaps, just artistry, delicacy, and grace. I'm lost in the magical storytelling as I sit amongst the elegantly dressed crowd. They look so elegant and composed, unlike me who’s giggling with the delight of it all.
A Magical Moment in Time
The music and the artistry sweep me up in a world of wonder. I feel the romance of romantic ballet; it’s all around me in the Paris air, filling every corner of the theatre.
The final notes play out, and the crowd rises in appreciation. This is one of the things that fills my heart with such joy. The ability to see something so special, something so magical - just like the tutus I love to wear.
Pink Tutu Inspired Ideas
Speaking of tutus, the flowing white dresses of Romantic ballet have got my mind whirling! I’m already planning some new outfits inspired by this gorgeous era. I can’t wait to share a new range on the www.pink-tutu.com website – I’m already sketching out designs for tulle gowns in the softest shades of pink. Just imagine – a delicate ballet-inspired evening gown, made from the finest pink tulle, accented with touches of gold and a hint of that romantic ballet spirit. Wouldn't it be fabulous?!
I’ve always been a dreamer, and maybe it’s a dream that a little bit of sparkle and grace can bring a bit of joy to the world. I think my time-traveling adventures are proof that it really can. If you are a dancer at heart, I hope you are feeling inspired. And I hope that soon you will be wearing a pink tutu - just because!
Well, my dears, that’s me for now! Back to Derbyshire to unpack all these gorgeous pieces of ballet history from the rucksack. Do let me know your thoughts on my 1949th post, I'd love to hear from you. Catch you next month for another adventure!
Emma xx
