Hello lovelies! Emma here, ready to whisk you away on another exciting time-travel adventure. This month, I'm thrilled to be heading back to September 1852, a time of grand ballrooms, glittering jewels, and, of course, incredible ballet performances! My trusty pink sparkling shire horse, Magic Meg, is already pawing the ground, eager for our journey, and my trusty leather rucksack is prepped for all the incredible ballet treasures I'll be collecting.
London Calling!
Our first stop is, of course, London! The city is abuzz with anticipation for the opening night of The Peri, a new ballet set to debut at Her Majesty's Theatre. Can you believe it? It's being performed by the famous and utterly adored Fanny Cerito, who everyone's talking about for her exquisite artistry and incredible talent. Imagine seeing her on stage, all in a magnificent, flowing tutu, showcasing such breathtaking artistry! My inner ballerina is already swirling with excitement just thinking about it.
The program features several other exciting ballet works. A new ballet, "La Gitana" by Charles-Louis Didelot, promises to be a vibrant, dramatic spectacle with a flamenco twist. This, dear friends, is the real treat. It’s so fascinating to see how these early choreographers experimented with different dance styles and movements. I've already placed a request in my rucksack for a copy of the music - I can’t wait to add some Spanish flair to my practice routines.
And of course, there are also more classic performances by other great dancers. Jules Perrot, a dancer and choreographer who is simply adored throughout Europe, is also in London, working on a new ballet adaptation of Cinderella. I bet this would be quite a treat for the senses, with all its magic and delicate beauty!
Vienna Waltz
No trip back in time would be complete without a visit to Vienna. September in Vienna is known for its lively, elegant ball season. And as you all know, I can’t resist a beautiful waltz in a flowing tutu! The Vienna Opera Ballet is performing the delightful ballet, "Le Lac des Fées" by Jean Coralli. I just know it will be magical! They say the Vienna Opera House itself is breathtakingly beautiful, all opulent décor and chandeliers. Imagine, darling! You could almost dance on clouds!
New York, New York
And speaking of beautiful spaces, our journey takes us across the pond to New York! This thriving city has a bustling dance scene, and one I’m so eager to explore. The city’s prestigious Academy of Music has hosted some incredibly talented ballet performers over the past year. I’ve heard of the "Italian Nightingale" ballerina, Pauline Duvernay, who’s got the entire New York chattering about her dramatic acting on stage.
September 1852 is particularly exciting for New York's dance world as it’s celebrating the 18th anniversary of the opening of the Academy of Music, which has hosted several prestigious and internationally recognized ballet productions.
I must confess, New York has inspired a new idea for my collection! I’ve spotted several fabulous tutus made from satin, lace, and even feathers! I've also discovered this lovely piece in my travels - a ballet journal from a local dance school with handwritten notes about practice routines, costume designs and a poem dedicated to the dancers - oh the sweet poetic detail!
A Celebration of the Dance
As you can see, September 1852 is a month overflowing with incredible performances and the artistry that’s been swirling around the globe in its grand ballrooms and theaters. Ballet has always been, and continues to be, a universal language of passion, grace, and beauty, and the history behind it is endlessly fascinating.
Remember, ladies, a pink tutu is for every occasion, from grand premieres to cozy ballet class, and my goal is to spread the pink tutu love to all of you! It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned ballerina or a novice like me, we all have the magic of ballet in our hearts. Let's share it with the world, one sparkling tutu at a time!
See you all next month for more thrilling time-travel adventures.
With much love and a pink twirl,
Emma xx
