Hey lovely dancers! Emma here, your time-travelling tutu enthusiast. Buckle up, darlings, because this month we're jetting off to the beautiful City of Lights - Paris, in fact - on the 8th of August, 1878!
As always, my trusty steed, the majestic pink-hued Magic Meg, is prepped and ready for the adventure. We’re all set to witness the captivating world of ballet back in 1878! I can just imagine the elegance of the dance, the grand theatres, and, of course, the stunning costumes, each more exquisite than the next!
This trip’s particularly exciting, you see, because 1878 marks a significant year in the history of ballet. The Paris Opera Ballet, my personal favourite, celebrated its 150th anniversary, an occasion worthy of all the tutus and celebration you can muster! Can you imagine the joyous performances, the spectacular grand ballets? It’s a dancer’s dream, that's for sure!
While we're on the topic of Paris Opera Ballet, did you know that on the 8th of August, 1878, a renowned ballerina named Carolina Rosati debuted in a production called "La Fille du Régiment"? That's some serious ballet history, folks! I can’t wait to learn more about the performance and soak up all the vibrant energy from the audience! I’ve even tucked a little notepad in my rucksack, just in case there are some hidden secrets or anecdotes I can unearth!
Speaking of secrets, how's this for a juicy bit of trivia? 1878 also saw the launch of one of the first professional ballet schools in the United States! Talk about making waves! That's just one reason I'm hoping to travel back in time to see how these advancements were received. Perhaps I'll stumble upon some incredible vintage photos, or maybe a beautifully worn ballet slipper, tucked away in a forgotten corner! Just imagine, all that history and heritage, captured in one tiny object!
Of course, my favourite thing about the past is the fashion. And oh, the 1870s are pure ballet fashion bliss. Just imagine romantic tulle tutus, delicate pointe shoes, and all those sumptuous fabrics - silks, satins, velvets – just the very names of them conjure up visions of glamour and grace! The ballet scene in 1878 must have been absolutely breathtaking, filled with the most extraordinary creations. I can already envision myself twirling through the Parisian streets in a perfectly pink tutu, drawing envious gazes as I go. After all, who doesn't want a touch of pink in their lives?
The journey itself, of course, promises to be an absolute delight. Cantering through the streets of Paris on the back of Magic Meg is simply the best way to explore this amazing city. Just imagine: the cobblestone streets, the beautiful Parisian buildings, the fragrance of fresh bread from local boulangeries, the lively energy of the Parisian life - all whizzing past me, with the Eiffel Tower rising in the distance. A girl can dream!
And oh! The adventure doesn't stop there. Did you know that one of the biggest events taking place in August of 1878 was the Universal Exhibition? It was a colossal affair showcasing the latest technological advancements from across the globe. Talk about innovation! And guess what, dear readers? A massive ballroom for dance performances was actually part of this exhibit! Imagine that - dancing under the Parisian sky with a breathtaking panoramic view of the world around you! This trip just keeps getting better and better!
Oh, I nearly forgot, another exciting development! In August 1878, the prestigious "Journal des Dames et des Modes" was running a full page dedicated to a ballet performance in their August issue. What better way to promote and showcase the dance to the wider audience?
Now, I simply must indulge in some pre-travel ballet preparations! The Parisian air has always been an inspiring element for dancers and for me too. I think I’ll treat myself to a new tutu for my trip – maybe one with a touch of silver and some pretty pink accents! Perhaps I’ll even try to snag a new pair of sparkly shoes. Maybe ones that sparkle just like the city lights themselves!
Speaking of sparkles, my readers! Are you excited to see my latest vintage fashion discoveries in my upcoming blog post about my trip to Paris in 1878? Let me know in the comments below!
Until then, keep dancing, stay radiant, and may all your tutus be pink!
Emma xx
