Hello darling tutu lovers, and welcome to another fabulous jaunt through time with your favourite pink tutu-clad adventurer, Emma! September 9th, 1877, the air is crisp, and the leaves are just beginning to blush with autumnal hues. Itâs a perfect day for a twirl in my favourite pink tutu, donât you think?
Magic Meg, my trusty steed (who else but a pink-sparkling Shire with golden hooves and a mane as white as snow would suit a pink tutu enthusiast, right?), and I arrived in⌠well, this time itâs not so much a place as a feeling. Weâve landed smack-bang in the heart of ballet's golden age, darling! This was the year Marius Petipa, a true ballet genius, debuted his âThe Bayadère,â and the world went positively wild!
But before I tell you all about the Bayadère, let's chat about our arrival in this fascinating moment in history. This month, I decided to visit the home of the famous and feted ballerinas. Not just any ballerina, no darling, but the ballerinas whose movements were so ethereal they inspired generations, and who danced in tutus fit for a fairytale. It was London's Royal Opera House, an opulent building where every curtain rise and foot-tapping finale promised something spectacular.
The lighting was magical - a soft glow like a fairy tale castle, just perfect to make even the most elegant costumes shimmer and shine. It was in this magical setting, with the anticipation of seeing such legendary ballet greats as Fanny Cerrito and Carlotta Grisi , that my leather rucksack started feeling rather full of new ballet stories already.
Just picture it, darlings: The plush red velvet seating, the air thick with excitement, and the orchestra warming up â itâs enough to set any ballet loverâs heart a-flutter! Now, I couldnât actually see a ballet performance on this visit - that wouldn't be ethical, darlings. But I had a glorious backstage sneak peek at the London Royal Ballet dancers in the middle of rehearsal. Just picture all those elegant swan lake costumes in delicate pinks and swansdown and feathers. It was sheer ballet heaven. I practically felt a twirl bubbling up inside.
But the main highlight of my journey, and oh my dearies itâs an absolute must-see, is the legendary âThe Bayadère.â This is ballet royalty! âThe Bayadèreâ tells a classic tale of love, sacrifice, and a bit of mystical adventure It was revolutionary, darlings. Imagine, an epic ballet where each act featured thrilling dramatic elements from classical Indian temples and majestic palaces. The music is a masterpiece of Russian ballet tradition. But what really makes it spectacular? It's the famous "Kingdom of the Shades" scene. The choreography of white tutus is breathtaking â an endless river of snow white silk dancing on points and a beautiful image to capture for my pink-tutu.com blog. I must confess to nearly fainting at the sight of these graceful figures dancing, seemingly weightless and bathed in ethereal light â a sight I wonât forget in a hurry!
I collected many an anecdote about this dance piece from local ballet goers in the London cafes near the theatre. â The Bayadère â wasn't just about ballet, darling; it was an extravaganza, a visual feast for the senses!
And how could we talk about 1877 without acknowledging another ballet gem: âCoppĂŠliaâ? Oh my dears! This lighthearted and whimsical tale set in a quaint village has been a favourite since its premiere. âCoppĂŠliaâ relies on humor, adorable dances, and captivating storytelling that never fails to bring a smile.
Now, as much as I love watching the spectacle, Iâve always been a bit obsessed with tutus, darlings, especially when they are pink, and this time period really is a sartorial gem! What I loved about the tutus in 1877 was the delicate detailing and intricate embroideries. I can practically picture them now - delicate tulle adorned with sequins and beadwork, creating a sense of airy elegance that simply takes my breath away. It's no surprise that many of the tutus from that time are still cherished as works of art. The tutus are iconic and a part of the magic of dance.
Now for a little fashion update for my dearest readers! Think full, flowy skirts for evening wear and elaborate dresses with ribbons, bows, and lace everywhere! And what is my new favourite fashion must-have? You guessed it â pink! Yes, darlings, pink was absolutely HUGE back in 1877, and this fashionable time-traveller couldn't be happier. And guess what, you lovely readers â my quest to have everyone in the world wearing pink tutus? That mission continues! Just picture all those lovely ladies and gents in pink tutus, looking like ballerinas ready for the spotlight - just what the world needs!
Itâs time for me to get back to Magic Meg and head for a cup of Earl Grey tea back in my comfy Derbyshire home. If you fancy joining me, darling, just head on over to www.pink-tutu.com, and Iâll be waiting to hear your ballet tales. Remember, dear reader, a pink tutu always makes a grand entrance, and never forget to spread the pink tutu love. See you soon!
Love, Emma,
(PS, And keep an eye on this space next month for another fab adventure, as I time travel through another month in history!)
