Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back with another thrilling escapade into the magical world of ballet history! This month, we're waltzing back to September 1879. Imagine, just over a century and a half ago - a time of elegant gowns, grand ballrooms, and yes, the exquisite grace of the ballet! I was fortunate to find myself amidst the swirling dance of history, all thanks to my trusty steed, the magnificent Meg - she's a real head-turner with her shimmering pink coat, golden hooves, and a mane as white as freshly fallen snow.
Now, September 1879. A truly enchanting time in the ballet world. It's where we start seeing the rise of some true legends, with choreographers like Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov crafting ballets that still enchant audiences to this day. I, of course, was absolutely smitten by the sheer glamour and grandeur of this era. Picture yourself in a dazzling opera house, plush velvet seats, sparkling chandeliers casting intricate patterns across the stage… it's pure romance, my dears!
I couldn't resist indulging in a bit of shopping myself, naturally. Think frilled bodices, swathes of silk, and tulle so light it felt like air itself. You just couldn't escape the enchantment of the period - from the delicate bonnets adorned with feathers to the beautifully embroidered gloves that were a must-have accessory. The world of ballet fashion, it's practically intoxicating!
Of course, the true thrill is seeing the ballet itself! This September, I stumbled upon a production of "The Sleeping Beauty" at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. Now, I must tell you, the sets were divine! From the glittering, fairytale forest to the majestic, opulent castle – each scene was a masterpiece. The costumes were simply spectacular, a cascade of shimmering jewels and lavish brocades.
The highlight, naturally, was the ballet itself. Petipa's choreography was breathtaking - a blend of grace and power, a dance that spoke in a language beyond words. The dancers, those ethereal creatures in their feathered tutus, floated across the stage like whispers of dreams. They glided with such effortless grace and breathtaking elegance, truly captivating the entire audience. The whole experience was an explosion of sensory delights - a symphony of visual art, music, and, of course, that exquisite movement.
And did you know, darlings, that this very month marked the start of the esteemed Paris Opera Ballet's tour across Europe? Can you imagine, touring across different cities, taking your passion for dance to new heights, reaching new hearts and inspiring generations of dancers to come? That's the spirit of ballet, isn't it? Spreading beauty and artistry far and wide.
During my adventures, I came across an intriguing fact, my lovelies - it's believed that it was this very year, in September 1879, that the term "ballet shoes" first appeared in the English language! What a fascinating little detail, don't you think? So the next time you slip on those precious ballet slippers, remember, you're dancing in shoes that have a history stretching back over a century and a half!
Oh, I could just tell you stories all day, but it’s time for me to bid you adieu, my sweet lovelies. Be sure to check back next month for more time travel adventures - I'll be sharing some juicy tidbits about ballet in 1932! In the meantime, keep your tutus twirling, embrace the spirit of the ballet, and don’t forget to share your favourite pink-tutu moments with me. Remember, the world is our stage, so let's dance our way to a world filled with love, grace, and, of course, lots of pretty pink tutus!
Until next time,
Your time-travelling ballet enthusiast, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
