Post #2479: July 7th, 1867
Oh darling dears, it’s your favourite ballerina blogger back here again! The date’s already pencilled in, and it’s time for another journey with Magic Meg and me! As you know, it’s our mission to share the beauty of ballet across the ages – a journey from our charming Derbyshire village right back to the very beginnings of this divine dance form! So saddle up my sweet petals, let’s take a flutter through the portal and be whisked to the world of July 7th, 1867!
You see, darling, this date marks a momentous occasion for Parisian ballet: The Paris Opera Ballet opens their glittering doors at their newly renovated home - the Palais Garnier. It’s all rather grand, quite exquisite. A lavish jewel of neo-Baroque style with exquisite sculptures, a staircase so grand it should have its own postcode and a chandelier that is quite frankly, the very essence of sparkle. My darling, it's like walking straight into a theatrical masterpiece - or rather, a ballet dream come true!
Now, let’s be perfectly honest, there are tutus involved! Pink ones, no less! Squeal! I just love to picture the gorgeous ballet dancers in their fluffy pink confections twirling on that grand stage. I’ve even spotted an embroidered sketch in my ballet vintage finds rucksack of the star of the evening, Mademoiselle Thérésine, adorned in a ravishing pale pink tutu that shimmered with exquisite floral detail. Can you imagine it, darling? Such intricate designs - it's enough to make even my fashion-loving heart swoon!
This 1867 date is also a hotbed of activity in the world of ballet, my love. Ballet master Louis Mérante is bringing the Parisian Opera Ballet to life with a premiere performance of "La Source," and a stunning spectacle featuring dancers and chorus lines whirling on the opulent stage. A story filled with romance, betrayal and a touch of exotic flair - I simply can't wait to see how this grand spectacle plays out on that gorgeous Parisian stage!
There's even news from our beloved Italian ballerinas, with Virginia Zucchi taking the stage in Milan. My goodness, Italian ballet in this era is renowned for its fiery, expressive movement, and Zucchi is a real force of nature! I'm already making a mental note for my next travel schedule.
It seems that our love for the art form of ballet truly knows no boundaries. This grand opening in Paris signifies a flourishing ballet scene with so much energy and innovation - my heart's aflutter! I am absolutely entranced by this time period - the excitement, the grandeur, the costumes, oh my!
Tutu Shopping Stop: I just can't help but browse through the beautiful Parisian boutiques. This city has it all, darling: From chic salons showcasing exquisite handmade ballet slippers, to ateliers overflowing with glittering fabrics in all the most delightful shades. I especially love the ribbons – the Parisian craftsmanship on those bows! Absolutely heavenly!
Fancy Footwear - My eyes are popping out of their sockets here at a Parisian shop overflowing with a kaleidoscope of silk slippers with intricate stitchwork in jewel tones - I must pick up some treasures to bring home with me, a memento of this enchanting journey. They even have those wonderful 'pointe shoes' with their delicate stitching! A true beauty to behold - imagine the precision and grace it takes to dance on those!
The Ballet Buzz: This evening, dear reader, I am stepping onto that glamorous Paris stage! A grand waltz, oh my, it's going to be magical! The orchestra is tuning, I'm preening my pink tulle - the air is filled with an electrifying mix of excitement and nervous energy!
Post-performance Revelations - What a divine time, my love! I am absolutely giddy with happiness - the show was stunning, the music truly divine and the Parisian audiences are simply enthralled. The ballet world here in 1867 is vibrant and full of so much promise. Oh, what a glorious era for ballet - how delightful that we have all this artistry and grace to cherish!
Till next month, darling. Remember, always believe in the magic of ballet and never shy away from embracing that inner tutu, my precious petals. See you next time with more exciting journeys through time, just for you!
P.S. Just imagine a world where everyone wore pink tutus! Isn't that just a magical thought, darling?
