#BalletHistory during 1852 07 July

Hello lovelies! Emma here, back from another whirlwind adventure through time. This month, my trusty pink steed Magic Meg and I are galloping back to July 7th, 1852!

I'm still buzzing from the sheer romance and wonder of the era - it's almost like stepping into a beautiful ballet itself. I felt the electricity of a truly revolutionary era, one which was bursting with creative energy and exciting changes!

Now, you might be wondering what on earth could possibly be so intriguing about 1852, but let me tell you, dear readers, there's much more to this date than meets the eye. Buckle up your tutus, grab your pink champagne, and join me on a trip to discover some hidden gems!

As always, I made a beeline for the City of Lights! Paris was simply brimming with life in 1852 - and a good portion of it was focused on ballet. Imagine a grand Parisian opera house, its golden lights glittering in the evening air. Inside, the hushed audience is waiting with bated breath, every eye fixed on the stage. And then, a sigh of wonder rippling through the room as the first graceful movements unfold - oh, to be back in such a magnificent time!

In the world of dance, I discovered that the esteemed Parisian Ballet, the Opéra de Paris, was undergoing a period of incredible artistic rejuvenation under the masterful leadership of director Lucien Petipa. This year, the esteemed choreographer had even premiered a new ballet, "La Fille du Régiment," starring the legendary Carlotta Grisi! It's almost enough to make me swoon! Can you imagine the exquisite grace, the delicate artistry, and the emotional depth of such a performance?

Petipa was quite the innovative figure, wasn't he? He was pushing the boundaries of ballet with his revolutionary "pas de bourrée" steps, introducing new styles and techniques, and infusing the dance with an air of grandeur and romance. Now, you can't help but notice his work's influence in ballet today. His contribution is quite remarkable!

My backpack is overflowing with little treasures from my travels – sketches of costumes from the original "La Fille du Régiment," a beautifully embroidered pamphlet advertising the Opera de Paris season, and even a delicate, faded ribbon which was once part of Carlotta Grisi's beautiful, layered tulle dress - oh, how I wish I could bring it home!

I even snuck in a visit to a "salle de danse," a private studio dedicated to ballet training, which was just bursting with life! Imagine girls in the most exquisite satin slippers, pirouetting, leaping, and honing their skills with all the charm and dedication that I could ever desire. The teacher's stern gaze, the whispered corrections, the determination shining in each student's eyes – it was absolutely breathtaking!

This particular salle de danse had an exceptional ambiance – they had already adopted a “free arm" technique that freed the dancers from stiff, restricting arm positions! You could really feel the movement flowing freely and naturally – quite a revolutionary move, don't you think?

And let’s not forget the absolutely stunning costumes! They're like stepping straight out of a fairy tale, with layers of the most beautiful, flowy tulle, hand-painted velvet and lace that seemed to shimmer in the moonlight. A real contrast from the tighter, more structured bodices of previous times, it was simply heavenly!

While Paris was certainly the beating heart of the ballet world, this year 1852 saw excitement ripple across Europe! Italy was also quite the hub for ballet activity! Imagine the cobblestone streets of Milan or Florence, alive with the rhythmic echoes of the waltz and the vibrant spectacle of masked balls. Such energy, so full of life and wonder! The Italian opera house performances often featured an elegant ballet interlude - a stunning spectacle!

It was also in Italy, during my adventure this time, that I found the most interesting piece in my bag this time! Can you guess what it is? A ballet pamphlet!

I'm absolutely giddy to share! A "Programma" from 1852 advertising an incredible performance at the Teatro del Giglio in Prato - and guess what it features? A show featuring dancers from the "Teatro Grande of Bergamo!" My bag seems to hold only the most unique treasures!

There is a real buzz around this “Italian ballet.” It's clear to see they had a style distinct from their French cousins – the use of “attitude” poses with outstretched arms and a unique expressive choreography - just absolutely captivating!

And as if that wasn’t enough, I saw ballet was making its mark on London in this time too! Although not quite reaching the level of fame of Paris and Italy yet, London was starting to welcome ballet performances as part of theatrical productions! There was real excitement about dance as entertainment, not simply a stage element, for example in the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane – the London heart of ballet at this time.

In this month of time travel, I’m inspired, simply inspired, by what I see! So, what does this tell us about 1852? Firstly, a very, very important year indeed for the dance world, darling. A year where the ballet world, just like fashion, had really taken off! It's full of thrilling innovation, stunning costumes, and a palpable air of excitement. Ballet is starting to shine its radiant light beyond the grand opera houses and into the hearts and minds of everyone!

This time travel escapade left me absolutely brimming with inspiration! Just look around! Isn’t there a hint of Paris's Petipa's choreography in the modern-day ballet's expressive style? Don't you feel echoes of Italian style with its powerful dramatic posing in our modern ballet productions?

Now that we’ve explored the past together, are you inspired, lovelies? Do you want to recreate that feeling of movement, artistry and romance? Of course you do, it's almost impossible not to be inspired!

Next month, dear readers, we'll be whisking off to another exciting adventure! Until then, get out there, lovelies, and spread the pink-tutu love! Every day can be a new dance in the magic of our pink world. Just remember, darling, there’s no dress too extravagant and no occasion too special to put on your most amazing pink tutu!

Love, Emma

www.pink-tutu.com