Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, back with another captivating peek into the past! Today we're swirling back to the 12th of December, 1883. Can you believe it? 1883! Just imagine the amazing fashion, the mesmerising music, and the oh-so-graceful ballet that must have been unfolding across the world. I just couldn't wait to share my journey with you!
Now, as always, dear reader, my trusted companion, Magic Meg, is patiently waiting in the stable, her pink shimmer catching the sunlight like a million tiny diamonds. She's a true beauty, this shire mare of mine, and she adores travelling in time just as much as I do. Oh, and did I mention that she also has the most beautiful white mane and tail? Pure elegance, darling, pure elegance!
We're embarking on a trip that promises to be absolutely brimming with ballet! Remember my mission, darling? My life's purpose? To spread the love of the pink tutu all across the globe! Today's adventures, as you will see, are perfectly aligned with my cause. Oh, I just love when the Universe gives you a little nudge!
So, without further ado, let's journey back to 1883. You ready? Buckle up your tulle and hold onto your tiaras! Here we go! ✨
Vienna, Austria
Oh Vienna! You beautiful, charming city, I've always felt drawn to you. This trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Wiener Staatsoper. Imagine, my dears, the elegance, the grandeur! The Wiener Staatsoper has always been known for its captivating performances, its exquisite interior, and of course, its enchanting ballet productions! Today, they're staging "The Sleeping Beauty." Can you believe it? It was a world premiere! I couldn't be more thrilled to catch a glimpse of this masterpiece. Just imagine, a swirling cascade of pink tutus, the graceful choreography, the intoxicating music – ah, it's enough to make one swoon! I must admit, darling, the sheer artistry and talent of the Vienna ballet have me positively spellbound.
And the audience! Think beautiful ladies in magnificent ball gowns, adorned with dazzling jewels, with their dashing gentlemen at their sides. Imagine a world where fashion wasn't just something you wore, but a statement. Each outfit, a miniature work of art! I find myself fascinated by the intricacies of vintage fashion.
London, England
From the regal opulence of Vienna, I'm hopping across the Channel to London. Of course, no ballet journey is complete without visiting the grand Covent Garden! The birthplace of ballet in England. Imagine the magic that would be taking place on its grand stage! And the joy, oh, the joy!
Tonight, darling, London is blessed to witness "The Nutcracker". Yes, the "Nutcracker"! Isn't it the most captivating story? And imagine, the delicate pink tutu, so perfectly embodying the youthful charm of Clara, sparkling against the elaborate backdrops. My heart just swells with joy, thinking about the magic unfolding on the stage.
Now, one cannot speak of 12th December 1883 without mentioning Marie Taglioni! She’s a ballet legend! Imagine, dear reader, the incredible grace, the unparalleled beauty and elegance she brought to the stage! It's enough to take your breath away, even just thinking about it!
Saint Petersburg, Russia
I must confess, my heart races when I think of Russia, specifically, St Petersburg! The birthplace of the incredible Imperial Ballet! A symphony of graceful movement! Today, they are celebrating a remarkable production of “Swan Lake”. I can just imagine the spectacle, the enchanting music, the beautiful dancers!
In Saint Petersburg, ballet isn’t just a performance; it's a lifestyle, darling, it's in the air! It is a source of national pride!
Fashion
Now, what can I tell you about ballet fashion of the late 1880s? It's a dance in itself, dear reader! They wore elaborate tutus with layers of ruffles and intricate patterns.
Remember how I adore pink tutus? The dancers wore pink tutus back then as well, although a slightly different shade, and they were equally charming. There are always fashion parallels, you see? Even when the years are far apart! But there’s also the beauty of individuality. Each tutu, as much as it adhered to a general style, was also a statement of personality. I’m trying to bring back those classic styles. What better time to wear a pink tutu, if not the winter months? I’ve brought a few new ideas back with me from this trip. Keep a lookout on the website, I'll have photos up next week, so don’t miss them!
A Note About Time Travel
My dears, I want to speak to you, the readers of the “Pink Tutu Time Travel Blog”, about what’s important when travelling in time. As I said, I fund my travels through performances. I also find that collecting items helps fund my work.
- Kindness: Treat every time period, and everyone in it, with respect.
- Don’t Interfere: Remember that each era has its own path.
- Learn From the Past: The best way to improve the future is by learning from the mistakes of the past.
- Preserve the History: We are entrusted to preserve historical records so that future generations can benefit from their understanding of our time.
- Share the Stories: I collect small objects from every time period to keep in my leather rucksack on my back. I will keep you all updated as to my collections. I love showing them in my monthly blogs.
Remember to take care and spread joy, darling. And please keep wearing pink tutus - always! The world needs a little bit of joy in it!
I can't wait for our next time-traveling adventure! Until then, keep dancing!
Love always, Emma xx
