Hello, lovelies! Welcome back to my Pink Tutu Time Travel Blog! This month, we're waltzing our way back to March 3rd, 1879! Fancy a trip to Victorian London, with a sprinkle of ballet magic, darling? Grab your pink tutu, slip on your dancing shoes, and climb aboard Magic Meg, my sparkling pink Shire horse. Let's time travel!
It's a blustery March morning in London. I've just popped out for a bit of window shopping in Regent Street, and wouldn't you know it, my lovely new pink tutu is attracting quite a bit of attention! Of course, it is a truly spectacular tutu - fluffy pink tulle with an exquisite design of embroidered roses, oh so perfect for a Victorian lady to twirl in.
But honestly, even here in 1879, people haven't embraced pink tutus for everyday wear yet. I mean, I wouldn't mind seeing the world in pink! My dream is that someday everyone will have a pink tutu they can slip on and spin in. Even the gents! It's truly a delightful colour, full of joy and elegance!
As I browse the shop windows, I spot a captivating poster advertising an evening performance at the Royal Opera House. It features a stunning ballerina, her pose frozen in a graceful arabesque, her pink satin tutu flowing behind her. My heart flutters - just think of the fashion, the music, the magic! A must-see!
Speaking of magic, that brings us to what is happening in the world of ballet on this very day. It is March 3rd, 1879, and the Russian ballerina, Olga Preobrajenskaya, is set to mesmerise audiences at the Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg with her exquisite performance in The Bayadère. The legend is, the steps for this piece are truly captivating and elegant!
Preobrajenskaya is considered one of the finest dancers of her time. She is renowned for her grace, flexibility and stunningly beautiful port de bras. She was known as "The First Dancer" and her technique was revolutionary, introducing an airy, lightness to the traditional style. A real pioneer of the era!
I must confess, the desire to be swept back into time by the sheer joy of seeing such talent is practically overwhelming! My bag is overflowing with my beloved ballet-related trinkets – a dainty pink satin ribbon for the perfect ballet bun, a shimmering gold brooch with a tiny dancer on it, and some delightful ballet books that look positively fascinating. But how about some theatre fashion, you say?
The world of ballet is not just about grace and performance. Oh no! Fashion is everything! Even back in 1879, the women at the ballet were trendsetters, especially the dancers! From the lavish velvet bodices of their dance costumes to the glamorous ball gowns and elegant wraps that they'd wear in the evenings - everything was about dramatic fashion and a sophisticated style.
Just look at those intricate bodices, those dazzling gemstones and delicate embroidery, my darling! You can see that each garment is a work of art, a triumph of skill and design! There is something utterly compelling about a ballerina's ensemble - it's like capturing a moment of effortless beauty. And just look at those satin slippers, the ones I am wearing now! Imagine how these talented women used these little beauties to spin, to jump, to lift off with such elegance and artistry.
Well, I can tell you I wouldn't mind a little dance break right about now! Magic Meg, with all the grace of a ballerina herself, can practically teleport us there! Oh, but of course! There is also this fascinating poster here advertising a new play starring one of the most prominent actors of the day – Sir Henry Irving! It is all about a cursed ballet dancer!
Honestly, it seems that 1879 was filled with captivating ballets, fascinating plays and wonderful costumes! There is nothing like spending a day in history exploring the world of ballet – it's such a treat! It's just magical to learn about the legends who paved the way for us, to see those beautiful garments and dance performances that truly set a standard.
Remember to check back on our Pink Tutu blog for our next Time Travel Adventures, and remember - it’s not just a ballet shoe you slip on! It’s about a love for dance, and spreading joy, a dash of history and always remembering that pink tutus can take you to the most wonderful places! See you next month! x
