Hello lovelies! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveler, back with another thrilling blog post from my travels through the wonderful world of ballet history! This month we're twirling back to 2nd February, 1850, for a fabulous trip down memory lane! (I just can’t resist a little pun here and there, it’s what makes ballet history so much fun! 😉)
This is post number 2270 on my ever-growing ballet blog on www.pink-tutu.com – it's quite a journey! Every month, I hop aboard my magnificent pink sparkling Shire horse, Magic Meg (golden hooves and all!) and journey to a different era to soak in all things ballet.
The great thing about time travel, darling, is that we can literally follow our passions. You might ask yourself how I manage all this time-hopping and pink tulle – well, let's just say my ballet performances are surprisingly lucrative! After all, who can resist the enchantment of a pink tutu twirling under the stage lights?
This month, my leather rucksack (my trusty sidekick for collecting treasures and stories!) is bursting with delightful finds from the world of ballet in 1850. Hold on tight, because things are about to get deliciously exciting!
The Royal Opera House, London: 1850s Style
Now, this is where the action really kicks off, darlings! The Royal Opera House is bursting with life, buzzing with anticipation for a big show tonight. The Royal Ballet wasn't yet in existence back in 1850, so a performance by the 'Royal Italian Opera' is on the agenda. That’s right, this iconic London theatre was, in those days, known for Italian opera, which incorporated some ballet interludes.
What's exciting is that this era marked the beginning of "The Romantic Era" for ballet! The graceful ballets of this time featured ethereal heroines, handsome heroes, and breathtaking dance sequences – think shimmering white tutus and tales of tragic love. So very, very "Ballet-esque" 🥰
What are we wearing to the theatre, darling?
Now, the attire at the theatre in 1850, is quite the sight to behold!
First of all, if you were an opera goer in 1850, chances are you’d be sporting a fancy new "crinoline" or "hoop skirt" - this was the must-have silhouette in 1850. A wide, bell-shaped skirt created an absolutely glorious effect. Imagine an ethereal, floral pattern, a touch of lace, and layers upon layers of beautiful fabrics – quite the stunning look for a theatrical evening, wouldn’t you say?
For the ladies, a simple silk or cotton gown in the most fashionable hues of the day – think pale pastels and vivid, vibrant colors. Maybe even a dash of lilac for that extra touch of panache!
And what about the gentlemen, you might ask? A well-tailored coat and matching trousers were the staples of the era, paired with a smart vest (that’s a waistcoat to you, darlings!) and a crisp shirt with a flowing tie. I daresay this timeless look makes for a gentlemanly gentleman at the opera!
Don’t forget your opera glasses for those mesmerising glimpses of the stage and your best conversation for engaging in some delightfully theatrical gossip!
Fashion and Flair: 1850 Ballet Dress
The costumes in ballet back then were equally dazzling, and the romantic ballet style meant that ladies took center stage. Think delicate silks and delicate satin, perhaps even some gossamer tulle (with plenty of fluffy pink possibilities for those fashion-forward dancers, of course!). They emphasized flowing lines and the beauty of the female form – graceful silhouettes and exquisite fabrics - just enchanting.
One of my favorite finds in my backpack, tucked away next to a well-worn copy of La Sylphide, is a sketch of a ballet costume worn by the renowned Carlotta Grisi in 1850. It’s an elaborate ensemble featuring tulle ruffles, floral embellishments and ribbons. So elegant! A true fashion icon in the ballet world.
It seems that these ballet dancers wore elaborate headpieces - so a lovely headband, a floral crown, a cascade of jewels, or a velvet beret – there’s really no end to the choices available for those dramatic touches. The overall effect was utterly breathtaking – a romantic, feminine touch with just the right amount of flair. Quite exquisite, darling, don't you agree?
From Paris to Milan, Ballet's Grand Tour!
As I journey back to 1850, I found myself in Italy and France. Now, this is truly exciting! Paris, Milan, Vienna, these were the cities that really set the stage for ballet in the early 19th century. And guess what? 1850 marks the debut of some fabulous ballerinas in these fabulous locations!
Imagine, darling, witnessing a performance of La Sylphide with the iconic Fanny Elssler. It must have been sheer enchantment! It is truly a joy for a ballet lover to walk in the footsteps of those fabulous ballerinas of yesteryear!
The Magic of the Ballet!
But really, ballet back then is not too different from the joy of seeing it today. Even after all this time traveling and historical research, there’s just something magical about seeing a ballet, don't you think? The costumes, the music, the passion – it really does transport you to a different world. It’s quite addictive really, isn’t it?
Just as you read this, I'm already on the lookout for the next ballet adventure - I simply can't wait to hop onto Magic Meg and whisk myself back into history! What's your favourite time period for ballet, darling? And where do you think my next trip will be? Let me know in the comments below and make sure you stay tuned for more ballet-filled adventures! 🩰 💕
Don't forget, you can follow me at www.pink-tutu.com – where every month we twirl into a new adventure together! Happy dancing, darlings! 💕
