Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, here! February has just begun and already I’m tingling with excitement about this month’s ballet time travel adventure! It’s so good to be back in the blogosphere, I’ve been a tad busy this month… and you’ll be surprised to hear I’ve been on a little detour – but more on that later!
So, for today’s jaunt, we’re setting our sights on February 2nd, 1849! Buckle up, lovelies, we’re in for a real treat!
A Royal Debut in St. Petersburg
Before I whip out my time travel boots and hop onto my gorgeous pink sparkly steed, Magic Meg (yes, a pink Shire horse with golden hooves! How utterly divine, darling!), let’s get into what was happening in the world of ballet on this very date.
In St. Petersburg, the dazzling Imperial Theatre played host to a premiere. Can you believe it? The very first ballet production of 'La Esmeralda', set to the hauntingly beautiful music by Cesare Pugni, was making its debut on this very day! Now, this is not your typical ballet story, darling – we’re talking intrigue, a love triangle, tragedy, and of course, beautiful dancing. The whole of St. Petersburg was buzzing, and imagine, there was I, tucked away in the back of the theatre, soaking it all up. It’s such a privilege to be a part of ballet history, even if I'm only a quiet observer!
A Glimpse of Fashion
What I love most about time travel, is how it’s like a fashion museum in real-time! In 1849, ladies in St. Petersburg were all about grand, flowing skirts, with lavish ornamentation and tight-fitting bodices. Their bodices would have been a beautiful combination of laces, embroidery, and of course, pink! My heart fluttered seeing all the beautiful details. It reminded me of my own ballerina wardrobe. I even spotted a particularly beautiful pink dress with layers of frills – oh how I long for such romantic details today!
What Was Happening in Ballet Beyond St. Petersburg?
Remember, dear readers, 1849 was an era where ballet was really blooming, reaching new heights and blossoming with new styles and techniques.
In France, Marie Taglioni, the queen of ballet with her elegant style, was in the spotlight, enchanting audiences. Oh how I’d have loved to see her on stage!
Over in Denmark, the Copenhagen Royal Theatre was featuring captivating productions, introducing new and innovative dance styles to the world. The world of ballet was full of energy, a symphony of movement and beauty that radiated throughout Europe.
My Time Travel Essentials: Finding a Lost Pink Tutu
As I always do, I couldn't resist the urge to hop on my beloved Magic Meg and head to the Royal Opera House in London for some extra time-traveling fun. And oh my! Guess what I found nestled within a dusty attic filled with forgotten treasures? A precious, pale pink tulle tutu, adorned with exquisite hand-sewn embroidery. I practically squealed in delight, it's perfect for a special occasion. A real find, don't you think? Of course, it came home with me! After all, what is a ballerina time-traveler without some sparkly treasures?
My Inspiration: Spreading the Love for Ballet and Pink Tutues
It’s been so much fun being in 1849, and it’s really made me realize how important it is to keep ballet traditions alive, dear readers. The stories of these pioneering ballerinas, the evolution of the art form, the breathtaking performances... it’s all so incredibly inspiring! It’s my mission to share this inspiration with the world and what better way than to encourage everyone, everywhere to don a pink tutu and dance their hearts out. Every month, I try to showcase a ballet, ballet history or ballet item to inspire, just like this blog post about the beautiful pink tutu I found. I just know that when we embrace our individuality and have the courage to wear our passion proudly, magic will happen! And so, my lovely readers, go on, don those pink tutus with confidence. Let's make ballet sparkle, just as brightly as those beautiful pink tutus!
Until next time, lovelies!
Emma x
P.S. Stay tuned to www.pink-tutu.com next month for the next pink tutu time travel blog post. Remember, you can catch my time travel funded performances around Derbyshire too. I love meeting my readers!
