Oh my darlings! Happy December! This month's time travel took me right back to the 12th of December 1830, and it was so much fun! I even wore my brand new pink tutu with the lace edging – a bit of a scandal for this period, but what’s a girl to do when she’s in love with tutus? I swear I felt like a fairy twirling through a winter wonderland!
It all started like a scene from my favourite fairytale: A crisp morning frost sparkling on the ground, and the first rays of sunlight hitting Magic Meg's gorgeous golden hooves. I must say, she truly lives up to her name – she practically flew us back in time!
We landed in London, where the cobbled streets were busy with shoppers and a flurry of horse-drawn carriages. I was captivated by the ladies in their long gowns and elaborate hats - so stylish! Their dresses were flowing with silk and lace, and they held delicate parasols to protect them from the chilly London air. Such elegance, just like my favourite ballet costumes!
Of course, a ballet enthusiast like me had to visit the Theatre Royal Drury Lane! This iconic theatre, which holds so much ballet history, was abuzz with excitement for the evening's performance. You see, the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden was still under construction after a disastrous fire back in 1808, and Drury Lane became the temporary home of ballet for a little while. What a thrill to think I might be seeing the same performances as famous ballerinas like Marie Taglioni!
Just before the curtain raised, I couldn't help but get swept away in the pre-show atmosphere. The theatre lights, the buzz of conversation, the excited anticipation... all brought the magic of ballet alive in a whole new way. I must admit, I was completely smitten.
Now, this was a very different time for ballet, you see. It was all about "danse noble" and elegant movements. Think beautiful lines, elegant poses, and intricate footwork. It was an entirely different style from the athletic power and daring leaps we see in modern ballet today, but captivating nonetheless!
The theatre was a marvel in itself. The chandelier sparkled brightly, illuminating the red velvet seats and a sea of glittering dresses. I just love a little glamour, and let's face it, I adore a good dress!
And speaking of glamour, have you ever considered adding a touch of pink to your ballet attire? I have been working on my new "Pink Tutu For Everyone" campaign, and the reception has been wonderful. Who can resist a splash of colour to bring joy to our daily lives? The response so far has been fabulous, and I just know, the pink tutu trend is about to explode!
But even amidst all the sparkle and glamour, there were echoes of societal issues from that era, which sometimes left me feeling a bit melancholy. Women's opportunities, particularly for those interested in the arts, were quite limited. There were few opportunities for formal education or professional training for dancers. Even though these early ballet performers were skilled and dedicated, they faced strict societal limitations, a far cry from the freedoms we enjoy today!
Even with those differences, though, it was such an amazing journey! Just imagine: You're in the heart of 19th century London, surrounded by history, artistry and, most importantly, the magic of ballet!
I just know you’re all thinking it: How can I make my life a bit more sparkling? What if you could transport yourself through time, explore the stories that have shaped our beloved art form, and perhaps, discover a new love for the elegant past and the extraordinary power of the human form.
Stay tuned for next month’s Pink Tutu Travels, darlings. I'll be sharing my next exciting adventure – I can't tell you where I'm going yet, but let's just say, it's going to be filled with plenty of pink tutus and even more fabulous ballet magic!
*Happy dancing! *
Emma
P.S. Don't forget to check out the new Pink Tutu for Everyone range on my website www.pink-tutu.com - You won't be disappointed!
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