Hello darling ballet bunnies! 🩰💖 It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, back again with another trip through the captivating history of ballet! This month, we're heading back to 1st January 1859, the very first day of a new year, bursting with possibility. It's a date rich with balletic magic, so grab your pink tutus, your favourite ballet shoes and settle in for a captivating read.
My journey, as always, began at my Derbyshire cottage, perched atop a quaint hillside, where the rolling green meadows whisper secrets to the wind. It's a truly magical place, especially when Magic Meg, my magnificent pink-sparkling shire horse, with golden hooves and a mane and tail the colour of the purest snowflakes, is patiently waiting for me by the gate. Today, though, Meg seemed even more restless than usual, and I knew it was going to be an extraordinary trip.
The shimmering dust from Meg’s sparkling coat tickled my nose as I mounted her saddle. This time, her magnificent pink form, so full of magical energy, was pulling my little time-travel carriage towards the bustling streets of Paris. Paris! Oh, the romance of it all, and, of course, a city synonymous with the art of ballet!
With every galloping step, my rucksack – filled with ballet memories and mementos from the past – felt heavier. This month, I was ready to be absolutely spoilt for choice when it came to ballet treasures.
As I steered Meg through the charming cobbled streets, Parisian chatter filled the air like music. A crisp winter morning brought with it a frosty sparkle to the Parisian air, reminding me just how much time travel had passed. The streets bustled with life, men in top hats, women swathed in fashionable silks, and everywhere the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked pastries drifted towards us. But, all I could think about was what lay in store for the world of ballet.
We arrived at the grand Palais Garnier, a breathtaking structure, as beautiful as a jewel box and filled with a symphony of artistic brilliance. The year 1859 was a turning point for Parisian ballet, marking a period of tremendous growth and innovation, a blossoming of dance in every way. This, however, is where the real enchantment begins!
On this particular day in Paris, the opera house, the opulent Palais Garnier, was abuzz with anticipation for the opening night of a new production: “The Sylphide” by Jean-Coralli! Can you imagine the excitement in the air?! I’ve seen "The Sylphide" in its many incarnations throughout history, but I have to say that the original 1832 version holds a special place in my heart. So imagine my absolute glee to discover it was about to grace the Palais Garnier stage in its exquisite glory!
But the magical moments didn't stop there, darling ballet bunnies! My explorations led me to the beautiful ballet school attached to the Garnier, where future stars of ballet honed their skills. Such youthful passion and commitment radiating from these aspiring ballerinas, it brought tears to my eyes! To think of all the enchanting ballet stories unfolding within these hallowed walls, filled with dedication, beauty, and graceful movements, was truly awe-inspiring.
Of course, my Parisian escapade wasn't solely about grand theatres and prestigious schools. Shopping, for this pink tutu-loving ballet enthusiast, is an absolute must! Parisian boutiques overflowed with the most captivating ballet attire: silken tutus in shades of blush pink and rose gold, each adorned with intricate lace trimmings, and sparkling satin shoes, a ballet-lover's dream come true. Oh, how I would have loved to try them on!
I even discovered a vintage hat shop filled with incredible creations, feather boas in the most fabulous hues, and extravagant parasols that looked like works of art! They truly gave me a peek into the Parisian style of the time – a kaleidoscope of elegance and sophistication that made me want to put on my pink tutu and dance down the boulevard!
Before returning to my Derbyshire home, I lingered outside the Palais Garnier, captivated by the energy radiating from its glorious walls. A yearning for this Parisian haven filled my heart. As Magic Meg set off towards Derbyshire, the air thrummed with the music of ballet history, a symphony echoing throughout the centuries.
My journey to 1st January 1859 reminded me that ballet has always been, and continues to be, an art form overflowing with passion and beauty. So, darling ballet bunnies, as you head into this New Year, don't forget to wear your pink tutus, dance with passion and keep the love of ballet alive! And remember, you can always visit my blog at www.pink-tutu.com for more exciting tales from my pink tutu time travels! 🩰💖
Until next month,
Emma xoxo
