#BalletHistory during 1844 06 June

Hello darlings, welcome to my ballet blog! It’s Emma here, and this month we’re galloping back in time to June 6th, 1844, a truly enchanting date for a ballerina like myself!

My trusty steed, the dazzling Magic Meg (she really is a magnificent pink sparkling Shire with golden hooves and a flowing white mane and tail - wouldn’t you love to own her?) is all ready to take us on our time travel adventure. We’ve packed my favourite pink tutu (you know the one with the glittery bows!), my ballet shoes (oh, they sparkle like dewdrops on a rose petal!), and my leather rucksack. This month it’s overflowing with treasures for our ballet journey – imagine, the history of this very date! I’ve got a feeling there’s some real excitement brewing...

Before we depart, I have to share something truly divine: a fabulous pink silk ribbon trim just landed in my post box! The shop I use is just down the road from my little flat in Derbyshire - wouldn’t you believe I met the lovely shop owner at the last ballet performance in London? She was absolutely besotted with my tutus - as one should be - and has become a good friend! We’re planning to start a pink tutu crafting night - she’s already started making tutus for all of her favourite stores - oh my goodness! Can you imagine, the shops in London filled with tutus! A real ballet dream.

Now, climb aboard Magic Meg!

Just the mere thought of 1844 sends a thrill up my spine! We’ve all read the books about this exciting period, haven’t we? Ballet was blossoming everywhere and some of the most incredible ballerinas in history were dancing on stages around the world.

Now, for this special date, we have a very important story to unfold. Imagine a young Parisian ballerina, not unlike myself (though maybe she's wearing white in this particular tale!), gracefully leaping across a stage. Her name? Carlotta Grisi! You probably know this name, dear reader. Grisi was known for her remarkable ability to float on pointe (I told you, ballerina dreams!), she made dancing appear almost ethereal. But this isn’t any ordinary performance. Oh no! This is a truly historic moment - this very day in 1844, Grisi performed in the new, stunning ballet, La Esmeralda! This ballet had just premiered in 1844, a work by Jules Perrot, featuring stunning costumes, vibrant storytelling, and exquisite choreography!

Can you even imagine, dancing La Esmeralda? My darling, just the name sends shivers down my spine - what a breathtaking work of art.

Now, let’s not forget, the year 1844 is renowned for its fashionable elegance. While ballet was becoming ever so popular, the fashion was truly inspiring. I can already picture ladies in silk gowns, long gloves, and delicate bonnets! I wonder what this ballet would have looked like back in 1844.

But hold on tight! We can imagine how Grisi’s performance would have looked because I discovered an illustration of the costume she wore for La Esmeralda – oh darling! You simply must see it. It’s absolutely magnificent!

She was, as a Gipsy (a word no longer used so kindly in our times), dancing and twirling in a full, ruffled skirt, flowing sleeves with an air of such romantic beauty. The perfect look to draw the audience in! I’m absolutely smitten.

Now, inspired by Grisi's stunning costume, I’ve been working on creating a new pink tutu. Think layers upon layers of tulle - oh so fluffy, soft and delicate! Imagine, a cloud of pink tulle and glitter... I simply must share the creation with you soon! I think it would look utterly divine on any stage! You’ve inspired me, Grisi - thank you!

## Finding Inspiration in 1844 London

Speaking of inspiration, just think, on this date, we have another very exciting development taking place – The Royal Opera House was being built in Covent Garden, London! I am quite envious! The idea of a new stage - imagine the excitement in London. We must make a trip there soon, dear reader, I simply must witness this theatre in all its grandeur. Imagine all the famous ballerinas who graced the stage.

Can you imagine, on this very day, the builders were working away! A true dedication to the arts, isn’t it? London would become a true ballet powerhouse – oh the dreams, I can already picture a flurry of tutus - even in pink, perhaps? It's only a matter of time!

What an enchanting journey back to 1844, isn't it? Now, I must tell you, I have a special treat for you this month, dear reader: a dance class tutorial inspired by the elegance of La Esmeralda!

Imagine, swirling and twirling, flowing with such beautiful movements. I’ve designed it to capture the grace and artistry of ballet during that period. I'll show you the most lovely pirouettes, graceful arabesques, and elegant bourrees - all perfect for unleashing your inner ballerina, darling!

Join me at www.pink-tutu.com this month! I’ll be posting the dance routine soon. Remember to send me your videos, my dears, as I always adore seeing you all practicing, smiling and dancing!

Until next month, my ballet darlings!

Love, Emma