Hello my dearest tutu-loving friends! It's Emma here, and it's time for another thrilling journey through the pages of ballet history! As you all know, I'm utterly obsessed with tutus (particularly pink ones!) and this month, I've been yearning to see what ballet was like in the romantic Victorian era, so we've time-travelled to a most enchanting date: May 5th, 1875.
Imagine it: cobbled streets, horse-drawn carriages, and ladies in long flowing skirts... but you can be sure that amongst all this Victorian charm, my pink tutu stood out like a beacon of sheer delight! Magic Meg, my magnificent pink-sparkling shire with golden hooves, behaved beautifully despite the hubbub, allowing me to dismount and admire the grandeur of the Victorian world.
Ballet Adventures in London and Beyond:
Today's travel diary will be focused on the world of ballet, as seen through the eyes of a pink tutu-clad time traveller. And where else could we start our adventure than in the capital city of London, a melting pot of culture and dance.
In London, ballet was thriving, but in a slightly different form to the classical ballet we know today. The era of romanticism brought forth ballets like "Giselle" and "La Sylphide," which celebrated ethereal spirits and tales of love lost and found. These stories truly tugged at the heartstrings!
We were lucky enough to catch a performance at Her Majesty's Theatre, the most prestigious theatre of its day. Now, remember how I said London was buzzing with culture? Well, it was simply impossible to avoid opera. A performance of Verdi’s "Aïda" had its London premiere at the Royal Opera House on 22nd March 1876, which means I nearly missed it! Talk about timing!
Now, I know what you're thinking: did Emma wear her pink tutu to the opera? Well, of course I did! It caused a little stir among the elegant, tightly-laced ladies in their floor-length gowns and heavy bonnets. But let me tell you, a good stir is just what ballet is all about!
Ballet's International Reach:
As our journey led us through London, I realised that the ballet bug had bitten folks across the world! In 1875, dance companies were performing internationally, and news travelled swiftly about talented dancers, innovative choreographies and new ballet styles.
In Russia, for example, ballet was flourishing, and I would love to go there and explore it further someday. We can’t leave out Paris, the city that has always had an enduring love affair with ballet. Ballet enthusiasts from all over the world came together in Paris to experience the finest choreography and performances of the time.
Ballet Fashion - Then and Now:
Speaking of ballet and fashion, oh my, let me tell you! Back then, the Victorian ballet fashion scene was quite something else. Long, flowing tutus with lavish ornamentation, layered over delicate corsets and petticoats... Talk about elaborate and glamorous! Of course, my vibrant pink tutu brought a little of 21st-century sass to the era, which definitely got a few stares, especially among the gentlemen who seemed surprised and perhaps even intrigued. I even managed to snag a few fabric samples from the ballet costumes in Her Majesty's Theatre, and you bet they will make it into my collection!
Time Traveling Adventures in Derbyshire:
After a few days of soaking in the grandeur of London, Magic Meg and I headed back home to Derbyshire, feeling utterly inspired. It was lovely to be back amongst the familiar hills and valleys. I felt a newfound appreciation for my home, especially the lush countryside which provided a welcome contrast to the busy city.
While Derbyshire was a world away from the glittering ballrooms of London, there were pockets of dance culture hidden away even here. We visited a few small local theatre productions and it was inspiring to see the talent and dedication of local dancers. One group, based in a small town near Matlock, was even performing "Giselle" that very month! Imagine my joy!
The Importance of a Pink Tutu (and the Power of Time Travel!):
But my dearest readers, do you know what truly made this trip special? The ability to connect with a historical ballet community, seeing the joy of performance and the deep passion that went into every step. It reminds me how powerful and timeless ballet truly is. I may travel back in time in my trusty pink tutu, but it reminds me of all the amazing ballerinas and performers who paved the way for me, and I, in turn, want to do the same for the generations to come! So let's celebrate, learn, and, most importantly, let's continue spreading the joy of ballet. After all, in a world full of monochrome, we need a splash of vibrant pink!
Until next time, may your tutus be twirling and your ballet dreams be ever-blooming!
Love always, Emma www.pink-tutu.com
