Hello my darling dance devotees! Emma here, back with another enthralling instalment of Pink Tutu Time Travel. This month, we're galloping back to the 3rd of March, 1827, ready for a ballet extravaganza! Just picture it: my dazzling pink tutu, shimmering under the Victorian gaslights, and a majestic Magic Meg, my pink sparkly shire horse with golden hooves, waiting to whisk us through time. Oh, how I love time travel adventures!
Now, let's hop onto Magic Meg's back, my leather rucksack secured for collecting those historical ballet treasures, and we'll whizz through the centuries...
Back to the Ballet in 1827!
Imagine London, England, 1827, a time of grand opera houses, flickering gaslight, and, of course, dazzling ballets! On this date, the enchanting King's Theatre in Haymarket, a real architectural jewel, was hosting a spectacular production of "La Fille Mal Gardée" (The Unruly Daughter), choreographed by the legendary Jules Perrot.
Oh, la la! This ballet was an absolute triumph!
Think of charming peasants twirling around a vibrant stage, with those delicious pas de bourrées that just make you want to get up and dance along. I imagine the dancers were adorned in the most exquisite, fluffy, and feminine tutus! Just my kind of dance, wouldn’t you say?
Let's Take a Peek at the Choreographer
Jules Perrot, a truly captivating figure, brought a unique artistry to "La Fille Mal Gardée". He created this masterpiece, alongside the wonderful Charles Didelot, a pioneering figure in ballet, who also designed the most beautiful sets and costumes! Imagine the colours and fabrics of that era... I’d love to rummage through their studios, imagine the gorgeousness!
Did you know? Perrot's "La Fille Mal Gardée" was a revolutionary work! It marked a turning point in ballet history. Gone were the strict, classical ballets of the past, replaced with a refreshingly witty, playful and absolutely joyous approach to the art form. I bet it was a hit! Just like those tutus and my pink sparkling shire horse...
A Romantic Time for Ballet!
1827 was in the midst of the Romantic era in ballet history. This magical period saw the birth of many stunning ballets, with a focus on beautiful themes like love, nature, and enchanting fairies. And, naturally, these fantastical themes needed exquisite costuming. I bet there were so many elegant tutus fluttering about!
Time to Look at the World of Ballet Fashion!
Now, every fashionista knows that 1827 was all about flowing, feminine elegance! Think romantic dresses, delicate embellishments, and those lusciously large, lace-edged sleeves, that I love! These themes carried into the ballets, adding to the charming allure of the Romantic Era! I'm just a tad obsessed with those period details, and I must say, those elegant costumes inspire my love for a stunning pink tutu!
Don't Forget The Shoes!
Let's not forget the footwear! Dancers in this era embraced the elegance of satin slippers, adorned with ribbons and intricate bows. Some ballet shoes were also embellished with beads and other sparkling embellishments... Oh my! Now I want to go to a vintage market and look for some old ballet shoes for my own collection...
Back in My Own Time, But Still Dreaming of 1827!
It’s always such a joy to visit the past and learn from history. We must never forget where ballet comes from and those remarkable figures who paved the way for our own dancing dreams.
Now, my dears, I must return to my own time. I have a class to prepare for and a lovely dance show to catch at the Theatre Royal in Derby this weekend!
Before you go, my fellow ballet lovers, tell me what you think of the gorgeous romantic tutus in ballet history! Share your ideas, stories, or simply let me know your favourite ballerina in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to my website for more ballet adventures, or better yet, check out Pink Tutu Time Travel on www.pink-tutu.com every month!
Until next time, may your dance dreams be filled with the colour pink, delicate tulle and sparkling shires.
Yours always in Tutu Love, Emma
P.S. My darling dancers, keep dancing, and don’t be afraid to stand out in a glorious, fabulous pink tutu!
Remember, a pink tutu can inspire everyone. Just imagine a world of beautiful, happy, dancing tutus.
