Post #2105
Hello my dearest tutu enthusiasts, and welcome back to my monthly chronicles of ballet history! Today, as usual, we're venturing forth on our magical journey through time, guided by the glorious Magic Meg, my trusty, pink-sparkling steed with her magnificent white mane and golden hooves. And where do you think we're going this month? Well, hold onto your tulle because we're headed to May 5th, 1836!
The year 1836 was brimming with artistic happenings. It's fascinating how the world of ballet, always elegant and captivating, is intricately woven with the fabric of history, isn't it?
I donned my very favourite pink tulle tutu (the one with the sparkly lavender trim - it really shines in the daylight!) and gathered my trusty leather rucksack, ready to collect stories, sketches, and treasures from this period. My boots were shining, and Meg, of course, looked absolutely divine. The world was waiting, and we were ready to immerse ourselves in the beauty of 1836!
As Meg trotted along, the air buzzed with the sound of carriages and horse-drawn trams, and the scent of wood smoke and freshly baked bread lingered in the air. As we galloped into London, the bustle of the city was almost overwhelming! Such a contrast to my tranquil Derbyshire life, and yet, I always find myself drawn to the energy of these historical hubs.
First stop: Covent Garden Theatre! The heart of London's theatrical world. Even back then, this magnificent theatre housed a prestigious ballet company. Oh, how I dream of dancing under the gaze of the chandelier in that very space! Imagine the sheer opulence, the velvet curtains, and the hushed anticipation in the air as the dancers took the stage! This place hummed with creativity and artistry! My notes indicate that a new version of the "La Sylphide" was presented, featuring Fanny Cerito in the role of the ethereal Sylphide. My oh my, Cerito! One of the most celebrated ballerinas of her era. Just imagine her grace, her delicate steps, the way she glided through the airā¦ It makes me want to jump into my shoes and join her!
While at the theatre, I also had to indulge my passion for ballet fashion, and wouldnāt you know it, 1836 was a true vintage treasure trove! Think sheer, wispy tutus, carefully-constructed bodices with elegant details, and footwear crafted to the highest standard of comfort and style. It's almost enough to make one crave a trip to the theatre just to see the dazzling costumes alone! I have sketches in my bag of tutus adorned with lavish embellishments and delicate floral patterns - my design senses are truly going wild with all the inspiration!
From London, I then galloped on with Meg, leaving the busy city streets behind for the rolling green fields and quiet villages of rural England. It was in the town of Worcester that I found a delightful little ballet school. Imagine my delight! Ballet, a passionate art form, blossoming in unexpected places. It reminded me that this love of dance truly knows no boundaries - even in the most modest corners of the world, it has the power to bring people together!
We made sure to see a little local performance in Worcester, a smaller version of "La Sylphide", put on by these wonderfully talented dancers. A simpler rendition, no lavish costumes, no grand sets. It was raw, emotional, full of passion. And oh my, so heartwarming! To see ballet performed in a tiny, unassuming village was an absolute treat! And I can't help but feel that, even if we don't always have fancy theatres or grand performances, ballet has this magic power to bring joy and beauty to any place in any era!
Our last stop was Paris, the City of Lights! Here, the world of ballet was truly reaching new heights. The Paris Opera Ballet was in full bloom, captivating audiences with its artistry. I found myself drawn to the works of Jules Perrot, who brought his innovative style and enchanting storytelling to life in "Giselle", a romantic masterpiece!
This was an era of intense theatrical invention, where innovation was the norm and the beauty of the ballet blossomed into incredible and captivating spectacle.
Of course, I couldnāt resist taking a stroll through the stylish Parisian boulevards, savouring the vibrant Parisian life and catching glimpses of the very latest fashions! I even spotted a new kind of shoe: āballet flatsā with delicate rosettes. I added a couple to my collection - one in pink, of course, and the other in a delicious turquoise!
But now, my friends, as we return to our own time, the echoes of the 1836 ballet scene still reverberate through my heart. What a wondrous journey we've taken through time! As I bid you adieu for now, remember - keep that passion for ballet alive! Let the world know about the magic of this incredible art form!
Until next month, dance on! And donāt forget: embrace the power of pink!
Love and sparkles, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
