Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, your pink-tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina extraordinaire. May is always a month for rejoicing in the blossoming of spring. And what better way to celebrate than by taking Magic Meg on a trip to the glorious city of Paris? Today's date? May 5th, 1868, a year teeming with balletic beauty.
My journey began as always, at the crack of dawn. With my pink tutu fluttering in the Derbyshire breeze, I mounted Meg, her mane a shimmering cascade of white, and we were off! She knows the route by heart, thanks to years of time-hopping with me. Paris, with its cobblestone streets and air thick with the promise of croissants and culture, is always a treat for the senses.
This time, my focus was the Opéra Garnier, that stunning architectural masterpiece that has hosted so many legends of the dance. And guess what? Today's highlight was none other than the ballet La Source! Can you imagine, a full-length ballet about a nymph who falls in love with a shepherd? I simply had to witness this legendary piece firsthand.
The choreography by Louis Mérante, set to the music of Léo Delibes, is said to be an absolute triumph. It was created for the renowned ballerinas, Carolina Rosati and Giuseppina Bozzacchi, who had each perfected the art of classical technique. In fact, the first-act adagio with its elegant lifts and poses, specifically choreographed for Rosati's strength and flexibility, is whispered to have made ballet history. Imagine being in the audience for that, the excitement, the awe…
But this wasn't the only artistic highlight on this Parisian sojourn. I managed to find the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin, where the premiere of La Fille du Régiment was taking place. The story, based on the eponymous opéra bouffe, is full of humor and lightness, showcasing a truly gifted actress, Mdlle. Josephine Réjane.
Her costumes, oh darling, you simply must see! A lavish mix of colourful satins, rich velvets, and shimmering gold trims – absolutely divine! It was a visual feast. In fact, this opera made waves not only for its music and performance but also for its audacious fashion choices. Imagine! They actually made women's tights, yes tights! (Remember ladies, I've been known to be an advocate of comfortable ballet attire), the color of pink – it was unheard of at the time. Think of it – pink, and tight, all in one! This is just the kind of inspiration I need for my next line of ballet tights. I’ll get my team on it!
My back pack is filled with stories like this – Parisian theatre posters, ballet music sheets, photographs, and even an early sketch of the Opera Garnier itself. This is the stuff that truly inspires, wouldn’t you agree?
Speaking of inspiration, have you seen the fabulous tutus showcased at the Opéra Garnier? It seemed everyone and their grandmother wore them – dancers and actresses, ladies of fashion and ladies of the streets. Pink, blue, white, you name it – each a symphony of silks and satins. And, of course, the ever-so-popular pink tutu. You know it is the colour that brings us all together, ladies.
Now, this isn't all. As I strolled along the bustling Champs-Élysées, I noticed that the shops are awash with ballet paraphernalia. It seems that this elegant city was completely enamoured with ballet and all its beautiful things. Imagine, a beautiful tutu-shaped bonnet to cover your hair, dainty ballet shoes to decorate a handbag – a whole symphony of balletic style! What a truly magical place Paris is, even in 1868.
This journey was all about showcasing the enchanting influence ballet held over a wider world. Back then, ballet was no longer confined to the royal courts. It had captured the imagination of a wider audience. This Parisian adventure further solidified my belief that pink is the universal language of fashion and elegance. And believe me, it's an inspiration that will help fuel my dreams of getting everyone wearing a pink tutu!
This is Emma, signing off from a pink-tutu-filled adventure. Do keep those comments flowing, and join me next month for another delightful trip into ballet history. Until then, don't forget to wear a pink tutu, and stay fabulous!
Visit the pink tutu time travel blog at www.pink-tutu.com and follow the latest time-hopping escapades of Emma, the pink tutu ballerina.
