Hello, darling tutu lovers! It’s your favourite pink-obsessed ballerina, Emma, back with another fabulous time travel adventure. This month, we’re waltzing back to 10th October 1823.
Let me tell you, I absolutely adore the Victorian era, especially for its blossoming ballet scene. The first pointe shoes, the captivating story of Marie Taglioni – just divine! Of course, a bit more tulle and pink in those tutus wouldn't go amiss, but I can’t have everything, can I?
Today’s journey started as always, with a little ‘neigh’ from Magic Meg, my absolutely fabulous pink shimmering Shire horse. She’s not only my time travel chariot, but she has the bestest white mane and tail and golden hooves, making her the most stunning equine in any era!
And what was happening in the ballet world on this delightful October day, you ask? Well, dear readers, we're in for a treat!
Dancing the Night Away: A Look at the 1823 Ballet Scene
While London’s Covent Garden Opera House had an operatic program for this night, the Parisian ballet scene was in full swing! The Opéra de Paris was dazzling audiences with a new production of *"La Somnambule, ou le Ballet du Chateau de Madrigu," *by Jules-Henri Vernoy de Saint-Georges and Jean Coralli. This romantic masterpiece was making waves across the city, known for its intricate choreography and a captivating portrayal of a young woman's nocturnal sleepwalking.
You know how much I love seeing new ballet works, and a touch of romance? Quelle joie!
However, let’s talk about the Tutus.
Yes, I can’t help it. I adore ballet fashion, but let’s just say the ballet dancers of the 1820s didn’t quite share my enthusiasm for pink and all things voluminous! It seems these ladies preferred the more modest ballet gowns of the day – white, often trimmed in gold and not overly flamboyant. But hey, even without the pink overload, I loved watching these graceful ladies dance.
My Latest Collections
Of course, my favourite part of every journey is filling my rucksack with treasures! This month, I've added a charming sketch of Taglioni’s ‘La Sylphide’ costume, complete with flowing white gown and delicate head wreath. I can almost imagine the thrill audiences experienced witnessing this ethereal performance for the first time!
And oh my, have you seen these gorgeous silk stockings, all delicately woven with intricate lace details?! Perfect for a night out, and, if I'm being honest, I wouldn’t be surprised if these were found on the elegant feet of some of the Parisian ballet dancers of the day!
I've also added some gorgeous porcelain dolls, delicately painted in elaborate gowns and dainty ballet shoes – so beautifully crafted, reminding me of those enchanting miniature ballerinas we often find on grand piano tops.
A Night of Whimsical Romance in 1823
The air crackled with excitement as I arrived at the Paris Opéra, all decked out in my best pink tulle (which, surprisingly, I found more than a few curious onlookers staring at!) But you know, being the darling ballerina I am, I’ve always known how to work a tutu! I spent the evening completely charmed by the "Somnambule", a romantic masterpiece, I’d say!
But my favourite moment? Catching a glimpse of a young, unknown ballerina named Marie Taglioni gracefully warming up in the wings! Don’t worry, dear readers, you’ll be hearing much more about her and her legendary debut in "La Sylphide," a few years from now!
Don’t forget to follow my blog, my dear readers! You can find me at www.pink-tutu.com!
Until next month, may your steps be light and your tutus always pink!
Love,
Emma xxx
P.S: I am now on social media, come and say hi! @EmmaPinkTutu (on all the platforms! )
P.P.S. Remember, your love of ballet can be a passion. Keep on dancing! It might just take you back in time, one pirouette at a time!
