Hello my darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, time-travelling ballerina blogger. This month I'm whisking you all away to 6th June 1853! Hold on tight, because this journey is bursting with ballet brilliance.
I always get butterflies when stepping into a new era. The air smells different, the colours are a little richer, and you just never know what wonders you'll discover! This time, it was a grand old opera house in the heart of Paris that lured me, my trusty companion Magic Meg, my sparkling pink shire, snorting and prancing with anticipation.
Remember, my lovely lot, that even with my magical horse, we can't just teleport. I have to work my tutu-clad behind off and do some serious performances! To fund this incredible journey, I have been dancing my socks off at the beautiful Derwent Theatre, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Luckily, everyone has been incredibly generous with donations. Now, wouldn't that be just delightful for your pocket and soul? A chance to give and receive happiness? The perfect synergy, I say!
Back to Paris, and I was ready to immerse myself in the world of 1853 ballet. I donned my very finest pink tutu, sparkling with exquisite detail - because why should history have to be dull? Just as I imagined it would be, it was an elegant and exciting era. The opulence of the theatre, the grand gowns worn by the audience, the electric anticipation for the show… just a breath of magic.
And what was on stage that night, you ask? A ballet entitled "The Daughter of the Regiment." Now, you may recognise this title from the delightful opera. However, this was a full-length ballet choreographed by none other than Jules Perrot!
Perrot, known as a master of grace and elegance, really excelled at telling stories through movement. And I’ll tell you a secret - my little rucksack is positively bursting with tales and ballet items from this trip! Oh my! A piece of fabric from the dress worn by the ballerina in the role of Marie! The design was exquisitely delicate and romantic, capturing the essence of innocent, romantic love perfectly. It truly embodies the spirit of the times, doesn't it? I feel as though I'm experiencing their ballet life!
This particular production was famous for the ballerina’s brilliant display of virtuosity - a combination of graceful artistry and daring technical ability. I can almost see the ballet now in my mind, the way the dancers twirled with elegance and vigour, how they soared through the air, creating beautiful shapes. Perrot understood that ballet could convey powerful emotion - joy, sorrow, longing, all captured in those fluid movements, oh so delightful.
Of course, as you already know, my darling dears, I am passionate about all aspects of the ballet. Not just the performances, but also the wonderful world of ballet fashion! And Paris in the 1850s was definitely a sartorial treat. Ladies donned beautiful ballgowns, adorned with layers of tulle and silk, with a flurry of feathers and sparkling sequins! There was so much drama, and yet so much refined elegance - absolutely beautiful!
The streets buzzed with creativity, the bustling shops showcasing an array of elaborate gowns, delicate shoes and flamboyant jewellery - a veritable fashion feast! The colourful hats adorned with blooms, the flowing scarves adding pops of vibrancy, and the graceful parasols, providing both shade and style, oh what a wonderful time for the love of all things fancy and fun!
Now, my lovelies, I have to whisk you back to the present! However, my journey through the past is far from over! Next month, I'm embarking on a new time-travelling adventure. I won't spoil the surprise, but I promise it will be a magical journey! So, until then, keep on twirling, my darling dears! And please, if you're looking for the perfect accessory for your next ballet outing, do embrace the power of the pink tutu! I hope to see you all sporting one!
Stay sparkling, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
