Hello darling! It's Emma, your pink-tutu-loving time-travelling ballerina. Welcome to another exciting episode of Pink Tutu Travels, where we shimmy and twirl through history, embracing the fabulous world of ballet along the way.
This month, we're jetting back to the 7th of July, 1859. Magic Meg, my sparkling pink shire horse with golden hooves, is pawing the ground with excitement - it's time to gallop into the Victorian era!
Before I get whisked away, let's chat about a delightful discovery in my ballet bag. Just this morning, I unearthed the most beautiful vintage program from London's Royal Opera House dating back to this very date. Oh, what a treat it is to get a glimpse into the ballet world of the 1850s. It features a production of La Fille Mal Gardée, a sweet tale of a mischievous young woman and her struggles with her controlling mother! Just picture this - bouffant skirts, tiny waistlines and, of course, some serious ballet action. Can't wait to see how those graceful dancers moved back then!
Let’s Time Travel!
With my heart fluttering with anticipation, I swing onto Magic Meg's back, adjusting my pink satin rucksack for my exciting adventures. You can imagine how well I'm fitting into the scene; my pink tutu (always pink, darling!), stands out like a vibrant bloom amongst the more sedate tones of the era. But hey, who says ballet history can't be a little playful? We are in Derbyshire, after all, and it's time to see what's happening in the world of ballet. I'll post a story for Pink-tutu.com as soon as I get back to the present. Don’t worry I’ll be sure to use the magic pink phone, it is brilliant for getting all those ballet pictures up!
The journey through time is a whirlwind of change - we whizz past coal-powered steam engines and quaint cobbled streets. Imagine the aroma of fresh bread from bustling bakeries, the melodic clicks of horse-drawn carriages, and the chatter of elegantly dressed folk as they stroll past! Oh, to witness life as it unfolded in 1859, with its own unique pace and rhythm.
And of course, my little eyes are always peeled for any ballet related finds.
The Victorian Ballet Scene
Oh my goodness, darling! London is a buzz with ballet! There's the grand Royal Opera House with its opulent decorations and the electrifying atmosphere. Just thinking about the magnificent costumes, the vibrant energy and the sheer artistry on stage is making me blush with delight. And then there is the enchanting world of The Théâtre du Gymnase Dramatique, known for its smaller, intimate performances and for showcasing talented dancers!
As the day stretches onwards, it seems like the entire city is alive with ballet.
Did you know, darling? Back in the day, ballet was incredibly popular. Families and people of all ages were keen to catch a show. There was this magical energy around ballet that was contagious. Just the mere mention of a new ballet production would send whispers of excitement rippling through the streets.
I had a brilliant afternoon indulging in ballet-related retail therapy! Oh my! I must say the ballet shops are just bursting with delights: intricate tutus made of silk and lace, exquisite ballet shoes with shimmering satin ribbons and charming ballet accessories in vibrant shades of rose, lilac and blue! I’m already dreaming of how to design a tutu to perfectly capture the spirit of 1859, it will have so many beautiful beads! I'm tempted to treat myself, maybe even an exquisite pair of ballet shoes, and don my newly acquired accessories to enhance my ballerina's chic! Oh darling, it feels amazing to dance in the elegant ballet boutiques of 1859.
As the sun begins to dip low, casting long shadows on the cobblestone streets, Magic Meg is champing at the bit, ready to gallop us back into the 21st century!
But first, a ballet show! My love, we simply must attend La Fille Mal Gardée. The buzz of excitement, the exquisite music, the vibrant choreography and those exquisite ballet tutus in the performance... Oh! You won’t believe how mesmerising the whole experience is, I have to tell you all about it in the next post on Pink-Tutu.com.
Before we go, darling, a reminder - we need more tutus in the world, tutus that spark joy! So get ready, embrace your inner ballerina, and find your perfect tutu today!
P.S. Until next month!
Remember to check out my pink-tutu blog and the fabulous photographs that magic meg is capturing!
