Hello, my darling dancers! Emma here, your Pink Tutu correspondent, back with another thrilling tale from the realms of time travel! This month, we're swirling back to March 3rd, 1836. Just imagine – it's a crisp, springtime day in the heart of Victorian England, and the scent of lavender and freshly cut grass is filling the air. Now, whisk away that imagery and picture a bustling city! Because while the countryside is still clinging to the tail end of winter, London is already buzzing with activity – and with it, the pulse of ballet!
I can already feel the energy crackling through my pink tutu as I take Magic Meg, my darling pink-sparkling shire horse with golden hooves, through the cobbled streets. This time, though, it's not a theatre premiere we're chasing – it's a different kind of performance altogether!
You see, darlings, back in 1836, the world of ballet was not solely focused on the stage. Dance had its own social whirl, its own fashionable gatherings, and believe me, there was just as much a 'scene' back then as there is today!
And what is a scene without some pink to pep it up, you ask? Well, as you know, pink is a colour that transcends time. Even in 1836, I can feel its subtle, romantic presence creeping into the undertones of Victorian society. Just think of those delicate rosebuds nestled within elegant hairdos!
Today's mission takes me to one of London's most talked about social events, The Ball of the Season. Imagine a dazzling scene - overflowing with silks, satins, and lace. But hold onto your tiaras, my dears, because even then, the waltz had already begun to dominate society balls! I couldn't possibly visit without giving it a whirl myself. Now, picture me in my signature pink tutu – a swirl of tulle as airy as a dream - waltzing amongst the high-society figures of Victorian England. Yes, it was absolutely breathtaking!
While this kind of social dancing may seem different from what we associate with the grand ballets on stage today, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by its grace. It was here, amidst the grandeur of The Ball of the Season, that I truly understood the artistry and social impact of ballet in 1836. The gentle sway of Carlotta Grisi’s performances, which were all the rage at the time, were certainly on my mind, as was Fanny Elssler’s famous cachucha dance. You know how I adore a good dramatic performance!
Even back in the Victorian era, the world of dance was rife with talented ballerinas. But did you know that The Royal Opera House itself wasn’t officially built yet? Instead, a place called The King’s Theatre housed some of the greatest performers in London!
Just imagine the excitement – ballet was such a thrilling spectacle that the audience could barely contain themselves! It's no wonder that ballet shows sold out nights in advance, sparking discussions over tea and dainty pastries amongst the city's fashionable crowd. And the costumes – oh, they were a vision in themselves! They just oozed elegance, extravagance, and a little dash of rebellion that perfectly captured the spirit of the Victorian era.
And speaking of outfits, my leather rucksack is absolutely bulging! I've gathered such fascinating items for our pink-tutu archive. There are beautiful vintage drawings depicting elegant dancers with elaborate costumes – they’d make an absolute splash even in a modern performance. There’s also this intriguing playbill featuring a show by the incredible dancer Jules Perrot – he is a legend! It really gives you an idea of how big of a deal he was! And wouldn’t you just know it – the playbill itself has a pink ribbon delicately woven into its corner. Isn't that simply darling?
I love collecting bits and pieces from these periods, not just to share them with you, darlings, but to help us better understand the journey of dance through time. These small, forgotten details add colour and warmth to our ballet journey and remind us that dance is always evolving.
Now, it wouldn't be a true time travel adventure without a little taste of Victorian England's beloved culinary delights. Today, it was a steaming cup of tea – perfectly brewed, of course – and a delectable scone slathered in Devonshire cream. Just thinking about it makes me wish I could be back in that magical world!
I'm already planning my next ballet escapade – maybe I'll take you back to the glorious Parisian ballet scene of 1836 or perhaps head to the theatre to watch Charles Didelot, who is famed for his ‘character dance', take to the stage!
But for now, my lovely dancers, let's raise a glass of bubbly to our shared love of pink, to time-traveling tutus, and to the never-ending allure of the beautiful art of ballet! And don’t forget – pink tutus are always the perfect way to add a little extra sparkle to any occasion, from a ballet class to a ball. Remember to spread the pink tutu love wherever you go. I’ll see you all here next month for another amazing ballet journey!
Yours eternally,
Emma xx
