Hello, darling dancers! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, dedicated to all things pink, all things tutu, and all things ballet. I’m your ever-so-fashionable time-travelling ballerina, Emma, and today I'm taking you back to June 6th, 1823. Oh, what a delightful year to be alive, with all the wonders the Romantic era had to offer!
Buckle up, my dears, as we gallop into the past on Magic Meg’s back – my trusty steed, a magnificent Shire with a golden mane, sparkling white tail, and hooves that shimmer like polished pink quartz. The only colour she prefers to my bright pink tutu is a delicate, blush-pink shade, you know! Today, however, Meg is wearing a bridle that reflects the hues of a beautiful, full summer moon. Oh, how we do love to travel in style, don't we?
Speaking of style, oh my heavens, let’s talk fashion! Can you imagine: women in elegant, billowing gowns, dancing like ethereal beings? This is the time of Marie Taglioni, the "Queen of the Air," a ballet dancer with the grace of a feather and the lightness of a butterfly, her long tulle tutus barely skimming the stage as she waltzed in a dream.
In 1823, the world of ballet was already witnessing a surge of artistry and innovation. While the previous era embraced courtly formality, the Romantics longed for a more expressive, graceful dance. I've just found the most delightful book in my ballet time traveller's rucksack – "Le Ballet, ou Essai sur l’art théâtral en ce genre, and son Histoire, by Jean-Georges Noverre.
He writes of “dances that speak.” Can you believe it? Can you imagine how thrilled I was to discover his writings – they are almost a foreshadowing of my mission – spreading the joy of ballet throughout the centuries!
In 1823, dancers began focusing on individual performance, a dramatic shift from the previous age of unison work. And while those early romantic ballerinas may not have embraced the glorious pink tutu in all its glory, their graceful, airy movements and emotional depth inspired dancers for generations to come. Their light steps, ethereal presence, and delicate hand gestures made my heart soar as I witnessed a performance of “La Sylphide.”
On that note, can we discuss for a moment how glorious a performance “La Sylphide” must have been back then? Can you imagine being transported into a mythical realm of forest nymphs and mischievous fairies? Just a snippet of a vision from that performance is enough to fuel my tutu-filled dreams for months to come.
Let me tell you, I haven’t stopped collecting information about ballet during the romantic era. Oh, the discoveries! The intricate embroidery on ballerinas’ pointe shoes! The shimmering silk ribbons adorning their hair! The artistry and precision of every move. This is a world I long to be a part of, but the present day is calling my name!
After all, we need to make ballet history, one twirl at a time. Now, as much as I want to sit here and daydream, I must remind you to check out www.pink-tutu.com – my little haven for ballet-loving enthusiasts. Oh, the memories I share there.
But I want you to contribute too! Tell me, darling dancers, what are your favourite ballet memories? What moments in history would you want to travel back to and witness for yourself? Let's keep this conversation going – share your thoughts in the comments section below!
Until next time, happy twirling and keep your hearts filled with the spirit of ballet!
Lots of love and pinkest wishes,
Emma
P.S. Did you know that in 1823, June 6th was the date of Marie Taglioni’s wedding? Fancy that, she even wore white, just like any other lovely ballerina! I just have to tell you, this white colour is nothing compared to our gorgeous pink, my loves! Now I’m off to search for her dress, imagine the design of that wedding dress. If I am lucky I will find an amazing white lace tutu in my bag and find a pattern, so watch out for that post next month! xx
