Hello darlings! It's Emma, your pink tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, and I'm thrilled to share another delightful adventure with you. This month, I found myself whisked away by my magnificent pink steed, Magic Meg, to a fascinating date: 9th September, 1842. Can you believe it? Over 180 years ago!
As you all know, I have a deep love for all things ballet, and this journey was no exception. Now, while 1842 was brimming with artistic and societal change, let's start with what's most important - the ballet!
Imagine a world without tutus... unthinkable, right? Well, back in 1842, tutus were still quite a novelty! The romanticist ballet movement was blooming, and so were the grand tutus we know and love. While in many theatres, the tutus were still knee-length or a little below, I found some ballerinas sporting the magnificent full-length tulle creations! Talk about a stunning silhouette.
But here's a fascinating detail, darling. The "Pink" wasn't a big thing yet! Ballet costumes, and indeed, most clothing in this era, preferred soft hues of pastel - like pale blue and cream. Think more like the inside of a meringue than a strawberry ice-cream.
Now, let's head to the theatres! My research told me that in the grand Salle Le Peletier, in Paris, they were performing Giselle, the iconic story of a young girl who dies of heartbreak and becomes a Wilis. Oh, how I love the emotional complexity of this ballet, from its heart-wrenching story to the sheer beauty of the dancing! You could feel the romanticism in the air, even 180 years later.
And who was gracing the stage that night? You'd have been mesmerised to see the legendary Fanny Elssler, whose expressive talent was said to move audiences to tears! She's been a big inspiration for my dancing, trust me!
Speaking of inspirations, on this trip, my backpack has been filled with gorgeous ballet sketches, programs from Parisian and London shows, and some of the most breathtaking costume design drawings from the time. Imagine, I even found an original program from a performance of "La Fille Mal Gardée", such a fun, playful ballet that was a hit at this time! I must show you these sketches when I return, darlings. They're absolutely enchanting.
Outside of the dance world, 1842 was a period of bustling change. Technology was blooming! Remember, dear readers, just ten years before, the telegraph was invented! Imagine what kind of technology might emerge in our world 10 years from now! It's all so exciting!
Speaking of excitement, a highlight of my time-travelling adventures is, of course, Magic Meg. We trotted through London streets, where carriages bustled with fashionable folks - just picture the dashing top hats and swirling petticoats! But in contrast, I felt proud as a peacock riding Magic Meg through the throng, the vibrant pink shimmering in the London sunlight! Everyone was amazed!
To my joy, on this trip I even discovered a ballet academy hidden within the maze of cobbled London streets. The teacher there was an old lady with sparkling eyes and a sharp tongue! She was strict but encouraging, always reminding her pupils to be 'elegant as a flower' and 'light as a feather'. Oh, I love the history of ballet!
And to the heart of my journey: remember, darlings, my biggest aim is to get everyone wearing a pink tutu. The world needs a dash of vibrant femininity and fun! Here in 1842, while pastels and simple styles are all the rage, you bet I let loose a pink tutus at the right opportunity! I must admit, it turned heads... just like I do everywhere else!
Speaking of head-turning fashion, have I told you about my latest pink tutu designs? I've incorporated delicate floral embroideries and sparkling sequin detailing for an even more whimsical look. They'll be available soon at www.pink-tutu.com - so do keep your eyes peeled for a new wave of ballet fashion inspiration!
My dear friends, the pink tutu movement marches on!
Stay tuned for next month's time-travelling adventure! And, in the meantime, please share your thoughts and ask any questions in the comment section. What would you love to see in a 19th-century ballet show? Would you dare to don a pink tutu in 1842? Tell me everything, darling!
Until next time, may your pirouettes be perfect, and your tutus be ever-so-pink!
Yours always, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
