Hey fellow tutu lovers! 💖 It's Emma here, back with another monthly adventure in the wonderful world of ballet history, just in time for post number 2624 on www.pink-tutu.com!
This month, I'm taking a time travel trip right back to August 1879, just as the late 19th century was blossoming into the elegant "Belle Epoque" era. A time of exciting artistic innovation and flourishing cultural movements, this era would see a revolution in the world of ballet - and you bet your pink tutu, I'm right here to document it!
As always, my trusty steed, Magic Meg, (did I mention she's a shire horse with shimmering pink fur, a dazzling golden mane and tail and hooves like sparkling gold? ✨) carried me through the time portal with a gentle neigh. Her soft pink hooves landed me right outside the legendary Paris Opera House - the heart of ballet and a perfect spot to get a feel for the trends.
Stepping out of Magic Meg's saddle (pink silk saddle cloth, of course!), I had to take a moment to appreciate the scene. Gaslight lanterns bathed the cobblestones in a golden glow, the air alive with the music of horse-drawn carriages. It was utterly captivating! And it was a far cry from the bustling modern world of neon lights and petrol fumes.
With my pink rucksack slung over my shoulder, I decided to venture inside the Opera House to soak in the atmosphere. The interior was grander than I had imagined, a swirling explosion of crimson velvet, glittering gold and dazzling chandeliers. The air buzzed with the excitement of theatregoers - they knew something extraordinary was about to unfold!
Right away, the energy of the Belle Epoque Ballet swept over me. I noticed a sense of romance and grace in the movements. They were much more expressive and full of dramatic storytelling, compared to the classical ballet of earlier eras.
I sat down for a performance at the Paris Opera Ballet, which had been renamed the 'Opéra national de Paris' a few years earlier. They were presenting the charming "Coppélia", with its dreamy doll-like character and fantastical choreography - absolutely delightful! This ballet had just been revived for its 30th anniversary, which seemed to represent a turning point in Parisian ballet, marking a movement away from traditional Italian techniques towards more French sensibilities.
The Fashion Revolution
And oh, the costumes! 😍
I'm talking lace-trimmed tutus with silk flowers, diaphanous, floaty fabric in shades of dreamy lilac and pearlescent white. Even the gentlemen were in fine attire, their velvet jackets and pristine white gloves setting the perfect backdrop for a refined and glamorous occasion. It truly was an age where the art of fashion and theatre met in perfect harmony.
After the show, I met a wonderful seamstress named Josephine. She spoke of the innovative designs for ballet shoes, with pointe work gaining more prominence. And she revealed a secret! - that the 'Romantic' Ballet was truly in its golden age! And there I was, in the midst of it all. 🤩
More Than just Paris...
Of course, a journey like this wouldn't be complete without taking Magic Meg to see the wonders beyond the city.
I galloped towards Russia, home to the renowned Imperial Ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. The ballets of the time reflected the spirit of the czars – they were grand and powerful, full of elaborate costumes and majestic set pieces.
Next up was Italy, where a vibrant ballet tradition flourished. It was a world of passionate emotions, flowing tutus, and ballets full of dramatic tales.
Through it all, Magic Meg carried me, my pink rucksack filling with tales of innovative choreographers, fascinating personalities, and inspiring designs from each corner of the world.
A Few Tips to Incorporate the "Belle Epoque" Feel!
As we near the end of our ballet-filled trip, here are a few ideas for bringing some Belle Epoque magic to your own dance routines!
- Go for flowing, feminine tutus. This era celebrated movement, so think graceful skirts with layers of gossamer tulle or soft chiffons, cascading in delicate patterns.
- Play with color! Soft pastel hues like pale pink, lavender, and delicate blues will instantly evoke a Romantic era atmosphere.
- Add floral accents: Think dainty floral embroidery on your tutus, silk flowers intertwined in your hair, or delicate floral garlands for that touch of delicate artistry.
- Experiment with Romantic ballets. Explore pieces by composers like Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreographers like Marius Petipa - both of whom were pushing the boundaries of dance during this exciting era.
Leaving a Piece of Magic in Every Corner
I must admit, leaving the 1870s felt bittersweet. Saying goodbye to Magic Meg, Josephine, the swirling sets and beautiful dancers… it always does.
However, just like my ballerina ancestors in the Belle Epoque, I leave with my pink tutu adorned with a newfound confidence and love for ballet.
Each month I share with you the stories from the past - a time when the dance was considered a divine art form. As we move towards the future, let's keep the fire of passion burning brightly within our own ballet dreams.
So, join me in a dance around the room in your most fabulous pink tutu and until next time, Happy Dancing! ✨💖
