Hello darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller! Today, we’re galloping back in time, right into the heart of 1839 – a year teeming with fascinating ballet developments, and of course, fabulous fashion!
My trusty steed, the divine Magic Meg – a pink, sparkling shire with golden hooves and a mane like spun moonlight – whinnied impatiently. Her pink satin saddle sparkled in the fading Derbyshire sunshine. “Ready, Meg?” I chirped, checking my own reflection in my pocket mirror – I always look my best before a journey! My tutu, of course, was a masterpiece of silk and tulle, with swathes of the most delicate blush pink and accents of sparkling silver sequins.
We materialized in Paris, that iconic centre of the dance world! Ah, the thrill of it all. Now, before we delve into the world of 19th-century ballet, I have to confess, my rucksack is overflowing. My recent ballet adventure in the 17th century led to the most incredible discovery – a stunning hand-painted fan, a ballet manual, and the most exquisite brocade fabric, all begging to be displayed in my little corner of pink perfection at www.pink-tutu.com!
The first thing I did after a quick cuppa – of course, in a pink porcelain teacup! – was to delve into the world of ballet performances in 1839. Imagine, darling! The Paris Opera Ballet, in the dazzling Salle Le Peletier, were captivating audiences with Giselle. Think delicate tutus, fluttering gauze skirts, and the exquisite grace of Romantic ballerinas! Sadly, we missed the performance as it began an hour before our arrival. Never fear, dear readers! I managed to snag a programme from the usher. He was quite delighted by my enthusiasm for the art of dance! I can't wait to delve into the story of Giselle and her passionate, albeit tragic, love affair. It will no doubt provide inspiration for my own creative choreography.
Oh! I nearly forgot! Did you know that August 8th, 1839 also saw the birth of none other than the legendary choreographer Marius Petipa? The man who gave us masterpieces like Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty! His innovative ballets are a cornerstone of classical ballet as we know it. Just imagine! It’s incredible to think that this tiny baby would one day change the face of dance. How wonderful!
But my dear readers, ballet isn’t only about performance – it's about the whole dazzling ensemble. My fashion sense wouldn’t be complete without a little glimpse into 19th century haute couture! We had the grand opening of the first Parisian department store – Le Bon Marché! Think exquisite silks, intricate laces, and opulent velvets - everything a true fashionista desires. It's practically begging for a glamorous ballet performance costume design! Imagine the impact of that!
With my mind racing, full of inspiring ballet designs and snippets of forgotten history, I packed my bag with the programme, a few exquisite vintage Parisian magazines, and even a beautiful, silk-wrapped perfume bottle for a touch of that Belle Epoque aroma. We are after all, time travellers, but always with a touch of the glamorous.
Now, darlings, this isn't the end of my ballet adventure for this date. This incredible year also saw the opening of a theatre dedicated entirely to opera and ballet in Naples. How fabulous, wouldn't you say? It makes me so thrilled to see how the art of dance was spreading its wings and reaching audiences far and wide!
I can’t wait to see where the next time travel adventure will take me! I promise you one thing: my pink tutu will be there, sparkling, ready to embrace all the magical stories of the ballet world.
Until next time, keep dancing your heart out!
Don't forget to check out the newest addition to my shop - a stunning array of 19th-century Parisian ballet prints! Each one is hand-selected, giving a glimpse into the elegance and drama of this captivating era. You'll find them at www.pink-tutu.com.
Happy dancing!
Emma xx
