Hello, darling dears! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com! It’s your favourite pink-loving ballerina, Emma, here, and this month I’ve whipped up a rather special treat for you. I’ve journeyed all the way back to the glorious era of Victorian ballet, 6th June 1882 to be precise. Oh, my dears, let me tell you, it was a whirlwind!
Magic Meg, my trusty pink sparkling Shire steed with the golden hooves, was, as always, a dream to ride. We set off from Derbyshire under a sky shimmering with the promise of a warm, summery day. The fields were alive with vibrant hues, just like a perfectly painted ballet backdrop. I can’t resist a little touch of pink, so of course, my tulle tutu was a breathtaking shade of rosy pink. As always, I paired it with my favourite ivory velvet jacket – I believe the Victorians called it a "reticule"? - to give the whole ensemble a touch of sophistication. It truly is all about finding that perfect blend of delicate elegance and daring flair, isn't it, dears?
As we travelled, I couldn't help but picture those grand Victorian dancers in their long, billowing tutus and romantic costumes. What a truly stunning spectacle they must have been. And speaking of stunning spectacles, we arrived in London just in time to catch a grand ballet performance at the Royal Opera House. Oh, darling! I can't even begin to tell you what a whirlwind of emotions the performance was!
I was captivated by the dramatic stories woven through graceful leaps and lyrical movements, the grand pas de deux showcasing the power and emotion of love, and the intricate costumes dripping with shimmering jewels and opulent fabrics. It was truly a masterpiece of Victorian theatre, and one that truly inspired me to put on my pink tutu and twirl just a little bit myself, even though, sadly, the local residents wouldn’t have approved of such brazen displays in public! Oh well, darling, rules were made to be broken, weren't they?
Speaking of captivating performances, imagine my surprise when I discovered a little known story! It seems that back in 1882, the illustrious Italian ballerina Carlotta Grisi, who famously originated the role of Giselle, was touring across Europe! She'd be showcasing her ethereal talents in Russia, Austria, and Italy! Oh, what a delight it would have been to watch her! Sadly, I couldn't quite swing a time jump to catch her performance – perhaps another time, darling.
However, I did discover that our very own London was hosting a thrilling program of dance! You see, back then, ballet performances were more than just one genre; they incorporated an assortment of dance styles, even including theatrical plays featuring dance routines! How incredible! There was a whole programme at the Royal Opera House featuring operas like 'La Traviata' and 'Le Nozze di Figaro', with accompanying ballet sequences. It seems that even the Italians couldn’t resist a bit of a theatrical ballet spectacular!
Oh darling! If you were wondering what else I'd snagged for my time travelling backpack, let me tell you, I have some treasures for you! I discovered a charming booklet from the Royal Opera House containing all the information on the productions being staged! Just a tiny glimpse into the world of Victorian ballet, dears!
As for fashion, oh, my darlings, you simply HAVE to indulge me. I stumbled upon the most incredible fashion shops! Exquisite fabrics like silks and satins with their beautiful iridescent sheen and embroidery that would make even the most jaded couture lover sigh with delight! I collected a few precious remnants and snippets of lace. Oh, these delicate materials! I think I might just inspire myself to design a new, limited edition, pink tutu range. Perhaps incorporating some of those intricate details? Oh darling! How I simply can't wait to unleash this on you all! Don't worry, I will keep you all updated!
Well darling dears, I do hope you enjoyed this rather lovely ballet journey into Victorian times. Perhaps next month we will have an adventure in a time gone by? I shall let you all know, in due course, where our pink tutu-ed adventures take us. In the meantime, don’t forget, spread the joy of dance, and spread the pink!
Stay twirling!
Yours in pink,
Emma xx
