Hello my dearest Tutu Twirlers! Welcome back to my blog, Pink-Tutu, where we explore the magical world of ballet through the lens of time! Itās Emma here, and this month, Magic Meg has galloped us to a very special date - 12th December 1855!
I can already feel the crisp winter air nip at my cheeks as we disembark, and the festive cheer of the season hangs heavy in the air. This December, itās not just the twinkling lights that are twinkling, but the pointe shoes on the feet of some very talented ballerinas! I can't wait to share all the exciting ballet adventures that await us!
As usual, Iām all decked out in my signature pink tutu - a lovely tulle confection with delicate pearl accents. My pink top hat perched jauntingly upon my head, matching the feather boa swishing gently behind me as I leap off Meg's back. This festive colour is, after all, the perfect hue for this most wondrous season!
Speaking of Meg, she's truly the best travelling companion. She shimmers under the moonlight like a magical, pink dream ā a striking sight against the cobblestone streets! Her coat glistens with sparkling pink, like a cascade of rose quartz. And oh, those golden hooves!
Okay, time to hop back on to our chronological adventures! Now, 1855 is a most fascinating year for ballet. The romantic era was in full swing, and new schools of ballet were being developed. Thereās such an energy about the art form - it feels like anything is possible!
For starters, in December of 1855, the Imperial Ballet in Saint Petersburg was already gearing up for a production of āThe Pharaohās Daughter,ā a ballet in five acts by Adolphe Adam! Now, you might be asking, why did this ballet get my attention? Well, apart from it being a classic in the realm of the ballet, this is actually a piece about the pharaoh's daughter being in love with an artist who isnāt a king! It's bold, beautiful and romantic! What's more, they say the costuming in this production is a vision ā oh to get a peek at those elaborate headdresses and sumptuous gowns!
Moving across Europe, in the same December, the Royal Danish Ballet was busy preparing for a new ballet titled "A Ballet for the Royal Court!" Imagine a new production created especially for a royal gathering, what a splendid spectacle that must have been! I can practically see the shimmering silks and graceful gestures in my mind. Iām almost tempted to reach into my rucksack for my special travelling time-travel magnifying glass just so I can get a clearer picture. I mean, who can resist a sneak peek into royal court performances, eh?
Of course, London, always a center of style and culture, would have its share of dazzling events too! In December 1855, The Royal Opera House was putting on a captivating show with āLa Fille Mal GardĆ©eā - The Unruly Daughter. This playful ballet filled with spirited, charming, and funny characters is sure to be an absolute joy. I must admit, seeing this ballet is on my must-do list!
But what about beyond the grand theatre stages? This December of 1855, across the world in America, ballet classes were likely being held, too! Can you imagine learning to twirl and leap while dressed in beautiful, frilly skirts and shoes with ribbons tied onto their legs? Iād say the charm and elegance of that era wouldnāt be lost on these ballerinas.
You see, dear friends, the beauty of ballet in the 19th century doesnāt stop at grand performances - it flows out into every day! Imagine taking a class in your elegant silk dress and a ribbon-laced bodice! Ballet back then was woven into daily life, not just reserved for special performances. The spirit of grace and fluidity lived everywhere, just like it does in our own time, even if the tutus are a little different! I, of course, always advocate for pink tutus. We can wear them every day if we want! Thatās my mission, you see. To inspire people to embrace the tutu, in all its glory, everywhere and always.
Well, I've got a feeling that this time travel trip is just getting started. Perhaps I'll be sharing a peek into a local ballroom in Paris, or finding out what fashion trends dancers were rocking back in the 1800s. And of course, thereās always a need for a little tea, so I can enjoy a delightful chat with the dancers in a London tea room. Thereās just so much to discover!
Until next time, remember: every twirl is a journey, and every day can be an adventure. Donāt be afraid to put on your own pink tutu and leap into life! You might even discover something beautiful about yourself along the way!
Until next month, my dears! Keep twirling!
Yours in Ballet,
Emma
*P.S. Don't forget to check out Pink-Tutu.com and join me on Instagram @PinkTutuAdventures to see my pink tutus in action! And remember, if you want to travel back in time with me, join my dance troupe and make this ballet dream come true! *
