Hello, lovely readers! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travels! It's Emma here, your Derbyshire-based, tutu-wearing ballerina blogger, bringing you the very latest in ballet history and, of course, all things pink. Today's post is extra special – it's the 2062nd time I've whisked you back in time with my trusty steed, Magic Meg, and I can't wait to share what we discovered on our adventure to 10th October, 1832!
The Magic Meg is Always Pink!
For those who are new to Pink Tutu Time Travels, I’m Emma, and I'm utterly devoted to all things ballet! I also happen to have a bit of a passion for travelling through time, thanks to my best friend Magic Meg, a stunning shire horse with the most magical pink sparkle, golden hooves, and a flowing white mane and tail. She takes me back through history on a whim – though sometimes it's planned, just like this trip! I must admit, she looked particularly fabulous today in a custom-made pink satin saddle with a little pearl embellishment.
*The History of the Pink Tutu… *
You see, our pink-themed time travels don’t stop at fashion (although it's my absolute favourite part!). It’s a love of dance history that really fuels these incredible journeys. My mission is to spread the joy of ballet all across the globe, one pink tutu at a time! (Don’t worry, my aim is to encourage, not force, everyone to embrace the wonder of tutus. After all, a little pink goes a long way! 💖)
Onwards and Upwards to 10th October 1832!
The 10th October 1832 – what a fabulous day! Now, let’s step into our trusty time machine – which, for those of you just joining us, is usually a well-placed tree, but today Magic Meg was feeling particularly sassy and opted for the clock tower of a beautiful London church (with, of course, my blessing)! A little nudge with the pink-tinted clock hand and, poof - we're in the 1830s!
*1832: A World of Ballerina Beginnings! *
Now, I have to be honest – I’d expected 1832 to be all about the grand theatres, elegant dance halls, and, perhaps, a ball or two! However, it seems 1832 wasn't just about grand affairs. We found a plethora of new, vibrant, and absolutely thrilling dance performances happening in some surprising places.
Imagine, darling readers, walking down the bustling streets of London only to stumble upon a thrilling "pas de deux" performance in a quaint pub or on a market square! And guess what? It was in those "little" moments that the big stories were beginning! Ballet wasn't confined to the theatre; it was bursting out, bringing delight to ordinary people. This time, I found a lovely story about a street performer who taught some little urchins ballet in exchange for their hard work. Isn't that simply heartwarming? (and a great idea for a blog post in itself, don’t you think?)
I also stumbled across some fascinating information about some truly fascinating new figures in the world of ballet in 1832. Can you believe, my dearest readers, there was a rising interest in ballet classes specifically for ladies! Just picture it: graceful ladies in stylish attire (and the odd pair of boots with their lovely pink tights, of course) pirouetteing with effortless elegance in studios across the country! And for all of you eager to learn, we now know that this period sparked the growth of dancing as a pastime for ladies and the expansion of various schools to teach the art of dance.
Don’t worry, the world of classical ballet was still thriving, though. In a grand theatre in London we witnessed a performance of a truly famous ballet – it had audiences in rapt attention as they gasped at each graceful jump and dazzling turn! The performers were so elegant in their long, romantic tutus; I had a feeling these ballerinas were not wearing pink tutus, but with my pink fabric remnants and needle, it will only be a matter of time before this changes, won't it? 😉 **
The World of Ballet Fashion!
Speaking of ballet fashion… I had an absolute field day with Magic Meg's pink shopping cart (don't ask! Let’s just say some pink ribbon and sparkly bits were involved!), bringing back the latest trends and even a few vintage dresses for a vintage ballet photo shoot – so you can all enjoy them with me here at Pink Tutu Time Travels. You won’t believe the incredible velvet slippers and bejeweled silk bows I found in a vintage boutique.
The ballerinas' shoes have definitely changed since then (a pair of these boots from the period made their way to my back pack) But, don't you think the vintage aesthetic is enchanting? I imagine the delicate flowers embroidered on a ballerina's silken bodice or a dainty satin rose nestled between her tresses – so exquisite!
*Fashion Finds and The Rucksack! *
Oh, I nearly forgot! I collected some fantastic stories in my trusty leather rucksack. Each month, when I travel back through time, I gather information for my blog and other ballet bits and bobs – and today was no exception. I can’t tell you everything that’s going into my rucksack – the excitement is too big to spoil! But just know, there are some interesting trinkets and fascinating tales that will make their way to www.pink-tutu.com in the next few weeks, I promise!
The Last Dance: Farewell from 1832
Magic Meg, she’s such a star, and she's already nibbling at the pink ribbon holding the saddle to my time machine clock – which means she's getting impatient! The London skies are now a dazzling pink – perfect for a time traveler like myself. So I must bid you adieu, but remember, dear readers, the world of ballet is waiting, and so are those wonderful, sparkling moments of dance!
Don’t forget to share your own thoughts on Pink Tutu Time Travels on our website – it’s such a joy to read your ballet musings and chat all things dance with you! 🩰 Until next month, may your days be filled with elegance, grace, and, of course, plenty of pink!💖
Emma x
