Oh, my darlings! It's Emma here, back from another whirlwind time-travelling adventure! This month, we're hopping back to a time when fashion and ballet intertwined like the twirling ribbons of a graceful dancer – 7th July 1829, Paris, to be precise.
You might be wondering how I ended up in 19th century Paris, and you’d be right to ask! It’s all thanks to my trusty, magical steed, Meg! Meg is a shimmering pink Shire horse, with golden hooves, a flowing white mane and tail, and she’s just as fond of a good dance as I am. She whisks me through time and space in a flurry of sparkling dust and, luckily, with no jetlag! My favourite thing about Meg? She’s never fazed by my ever-expanding collection of ballet memorabilia that I carry on my back in a vintage leather rucksack.
This month, my ballet travels took me to the Parisian Opera House. Imagine, my dears, a world of opulence and elegance, where the scent of perfume mingles with the intoxicating sound of live music. This evening, the most fashionable society of Paris had come together for a spectacle – the world premiere of the ballet, "La Sylphide". I was thrilled!
Now, "La Sylphide" is an iconic ballet – and if you haven't seen it yet, then I highly recommend making it a priority! This was actually its first ever showing, performed by the legendary Marie Taglioni, the graceful icon who defined the 'romantic era' of ballet.
Let’s be honest, nothing quite beats witnessing ballet history firsthand! Marie was stunning in a diaphanous white tutu and was like a dancing spirit on stage. I even managed to sneak a peek backstage and chat to her (shh! Don’t tell my time travel guide, but I believe she thought my pink tutu was 'tres chic'). There’s something enchanting about ballet, the way the movements are so graceful and evocative, transporting you to another world.
You can imagine my rucksack bursting with "La Sylphide" memorabilia: sketches, costume samples, programmes, even a signed note from Marie herself – I just couldn't resist a little souvenir. Imagine how I’ll tell this story back in Derbyshire at the next tea party, "Oh yes, Marie herself! And her performance, you just had to see it!".
Speaking of costumes, imagine the grandness of it all! I'm talking floor-length dresses adorned with exquisite lace, intricate headdresses, and yes, ladies, I even spotted a pink tutu!
This wasn’t just a show; it was a social event where fashion and performance were inextricably linked. Paris, always ahead of its time, was truly embracing the ‘romantic era’ in ballet. The world was starting to take notice of this innovative style of dancing, and I must admit, I feel incredibly lucky to be in Paris witnessing this exciting evolution of ballet.
The thing I absolutely loved most about my Parisian sojourn? Seeing that same excitement for ballet reflected in the audience, the rapturous applause, the breathless anticipation as the curtain rose. Even though centuries have passed, the joy of sharing ballet’s magic is a constant.
Of course, my adventures didn’t end with the performance! A trip to the bustling markets, filled with colourful fabrics and exquisitely crafted ribbons was simply irresistible! I managed to snag a gorgeous lace shawl - the perfect touch for my next ballet performance - and I am, of course, adding a beautiful, pink ribbon for that extra touch of Emma.
Now, it wouldn't be a Parisian visit without indulging in the incredible pastry scene, right? Oh, my dear readers, let’s just say there was a fair amount of delightful pastry consumed, all with a cheeky little ‘bonjour!’ to my friendly bakers.
My adventures took me from the exquisite opulence of the opera house, to the charming charm of the markets, all the way to the heart of Paris. I even stopped by a Parisian tearoom to sip on exquisite tea and admire the artistic creations of the world-famous 'macarons' in the window. I simply had to try a few, naturally. What a delightful treat, the perfect balance of sweetness and deliciousness – just like a graceful ballet performance!
Paris, you certainly are a treasure!
Now, it’s time to share a piece of Parisian charm with you! Remember, you can explore ballet from the comfort of your own home, through beautiful books and movies, or even better, attend a performance yourself! Don’t be shy, channel your inner ballerina, don your prettiest pink tutu, and immerse yourself in the world of ballet. The magic waits for you!
Until next month,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
