Hello, darling ballet lovers! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu enthusiast and, of course, your time-travelling ballet blogger! I'm absolutely bursting with excitement to share today's adventures with you, so settle in, grab a cuppa and a pink macaron (I know you've got some – I'm a firm believer in pink indulgence!), because this one is a real corker.
This month, we're whisked back to 3rd March, 1828! Yes, darlings, almost two centuries ago, we find ourselves in a whirlwind of romantic ballet history, ready to discover the magic that unfolded in the world of dance on that very date.
Now, before we delve into the ballet bonanza, let me tell you all about my journey! I woke up in the misty Derbyshire hills, with the scent of lavender wafting through my window. I donned my favourite pink tutu – it's a dreamy creation with layers of silk tulle and delicate beading. Of course, no true time traveller would go anywhere without her trusty companion, Magic Meg. She's a sparkling pink Shire horse, a sight to behold with her golden hooves and a flowing mane and tail as white as fresh snow.
We galloped through the countryside, the morning sun casting a rosy glow on the dew-kissed fields. With every leap of Magic Meg's magnificent hooves, I felt a surge of excitement. I couldn't wait to see what this exciting year in ballet held for us!
Reaching a swirling, sparkly portal, we entered with a flourish. My leather rucksack – packed with everything from vintage ballet slippers to faded photographs of bygone dancers – jostled against my back as I rode. As we emerged, we were greeted with a delightful aroma – I do love the smell of freshly baked bread and horse stables!
We were in the heart of 1828 London, bustling with horse-drawn carriages and ladies in their fine bonnets. It was as if I had stepped onto a stage set of a grand Victorian opera! A few whispers of "Fancy a pretty creature in pink" accompanied by some curious glances filled the air, but who can blame them? Pink tutus, darlings, are as bold a statement in any age as they are today!
My mission for the day? To discover the ballet world of 1828. I couldn't wait to see what theatrical spectacles unfolded. I had heard rumours of some fantastic performances! So, with Magic Meg securely tucked away in a nearby stable (with plenty of carrots and hay, of course), I ventured into the vibrant city, with its cobbled streets and enchanting charm.
And what a day it was! My first stop was the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane – the beating heart of London’s theatre scene. My heart raced as I entered the grand foyer. You could feel the electricity in the air, and the thrill of anticipation from the assembled patrons. It was a whole different era! I must confess to a quick peek at some elegant gentlemen in powdered wigs!
On the stage, I was delighted to witness a dazzling performance of "La Bayadère," by the legendary Marie Taglioni! My jaw dropped! It was so enthralling to see this classic ballet in all its historical glory. The sheer lightness and fluidity of the choreography were truly breathtaking, and Taglioni herself was a captivating vision in white. A perfect portrayal of a divine, ethereal dancer, her every movement filled with such grace and elegance – truly enchanting!
Later, I found myself at the Italian Opera House, now known as the Royal Opera House, to experience another spectacle: "The Bride of Messina" by Bellini! Now, this production was a little bit different – more focused on the opera, the singing, and the dramatic acting rather than the traditional ballet I know. It gave me a real appreciation for how diverse the world of ballet and performing arts were then – not all dancing was quite as graceful as "La Bayadère!"
And who could have known that amidst the hustle and bustle of 1828 London, ballet history would be unfolding right in front of me? A little trip to the book store had me falling in love with the most wonderful antique tome – a vintage "Book of Dance," from a year earlier! It has beautiful etchings and descriptions of all the ballet fashions of the time! Imagine my delight, darlings!
This antique tome became a treasure I quickly placed in my trusty leather rucksack, next to a faded programme from "La Bayadère," some dried flowers from a bouquet given to a lady in the audience during the show, and even a hand-written review of the performance of "La Bayadère." Imagine my luck to be able to add this collection to my growing library of ballet history!
Before you know it, darling readers, it was time to head back! But before leaving, I had to make sure my dear Magic Meg had a treat - some oats and a couple of extra-pink sugar cubes. A sweet reward for such an adventurous journey! She can be quite a greedy girl sometimes, especially if she smells that special pink candy that reminds her of a sugar rush we had during one of our adventures! You know what I'm talking about – those rainbow sugar treats!
My adventures, however, didn't stop at the time portal! Remember, dear readers, this is my ballet blog, so back in my own time, it wouldn't be a true "Pink Tutu Time Travels" experience without a fabulous ballet fashion find. My quest this month had me stopping by a darling vintage shop - nestled away in a quiet alleyway! It is "A touch of Elegance," in Bakewell, the town next to my home. There, amongst dusty hats and fur trimmed jackets, I found a magnificent pink silk evening gown with embroidered sequins! I simply had to take it home! Just imagine dancing in it, darling readers, you would turn heads anywhere!
Oh, the memories we've created on this exciting journey to 1828, a ballet time travel odyssey filled with history, drama, fashion, and a generous dose of pink! I have already started sketching my own version of a "La Bayadère" inspired pink tutu - it will be perfection with layers and layers of dreamy tulle! And you know what I have in mind, darling readers? I think a performance under a clear starry sky, just like they had in 1828, would be utterly charming.
This adventure, this time-travelling journey to a bygone era in ballet, has me buzzing with new ideas and inspiration. Do keep an eye out for "The Pink Tutu Times," my quarterly newsletter on www.pink-tutu.com. It's where I will share all my ballet musings! And until next time, remember to twirl with a pink smile! I have to run, my next performance is approaching quickly.
With all my love and ballet twirls,
Emma
