Hello my darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, where every month we journey through time on the back of my magical steed, Meg, a shimmering pink Shire horse with a mane and tail as white as freshly fallen snow. I'm Emma, your pink tutu-clad guide, and I'm thrilled to share another dazzling adventure with you all. Today we're twirling back to April 1851 – a date steeped in history, but even more so, a time where ballet took a graceful leap forward!
Oh, what a delightful date to find myself in! The world of ballet in April 1851 is brimming with anticipation and exciting developments. Let's take a little spin through what's on offer, shall we?
London's Theatre Royal Drury Lane was, as ever, a hive of activity! On April 4th, the very same date we’ve landed, audiences were treated to a grand performance of “The Bride of Lammermoor,” an opera based on Sir Walter Scott’s novel. Now, while not technically ballet, this opera features some incredible, heart-stopping choreography, bringing drama and romance to the stage with flowing grace.
My oh my, you simply must imagine the glittering spectacle! Costumes – rich in colour and intricate detail – set pieces, evoking the dramatic landscape of Scotland, music, swelling with emotion… It all transports the audience to another world, and reminds us of the enduring power of dance to tell stories that resonate through the ages.
Speaking of drama, and oh darling, where do we begin! The whole ballet world is abuzz with excitement for the premiere of “Giselle” at the Opéra de Paris. We are still a few weeks away from the opening night on June 28th, 1851, but trust me, darling, this will be the ballet that takes everyone’s breath away! It's about the ultimate romance – a young peasant girl's love for a disguised prince – and features breathtaking pas de deux, adagio, and, of course, the unforgettable Wilis – spectral spirits who haunt those who have broken their lover’s heart. I must get myself there for that grand opening!
It wasn't all about the theatres though. Ballet was bursting out everywhere. Imagine if you will: the ballet schools of Paris and London are flourishing. Tiny toes are perfecting their arabesques, delicate fingers learning the art of graceful gesturing. My dear, you can just feel the energy buzzing with potential for greatness.
Oh! And can we talk fashion? I am absolutely captivated by the* costumes* from this time. Romantic tulle dances around the ankles, a swirl of softness in vibrant colors, accented with the finest satin ribbons. I'm adding a little detail to my collection today, a lace and velvet corset inspired by those worn by the dancers, to be added to my ever-growing wardrobe of antique ballet treasures.
Now, my precious, you know me and my penchant for the pink tutu, so you might be wondering why the stage isn't adorned with them yet. Well, you see, darling, the tutus we know and adore were still a little way off in the future! They didn’t really come into vogue until the late 19th century, although their evolution began with earlier experiments with romantic and graceful styles.
This little journey has definitely given me inspiration to put a twist on a Victorian inspired tutu with some subtle pink touches for my next performance. Imagine, a symphony of pale pinks, pearl grey, and ivory satin, paired with pearl and diamanté embellishments, evoking the grandeur of Victorian London, but with a touch of pink sparkle! Oh, I can practically see it on the stage now, with the soft shimmer of the tulle catching the light. This will be a stunning ballet creation to bring back from my trip and inspire everyone back home!
But alas, all journeys have their end, even those made on the back of a pink magical horse. It's time for me to pack my leather rucksack with my newfound treasures – perhaps a worn ballet score from "Giselle," or a glimpse of a beautiful costume from the Paris Opera – and prepare to bid farewell to this remarkable day.
Until next time, my darlings, keep twirling, keep dancing, and remember, a little pink goes a long way! Remember you can always keep up to date with me on Pink-Tutu.com where I will be posting this blog and the whole story behind it and all the exciting adventures I have. If you’re feeling extra twirly you can even watch some of my past shows or contact me through the site. And most importantly, wear pink, wear a tutu, and let your spirit soar!
Much love and a sprinkle of glitter, Emma xx
