Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, your resident pink tutu aficionado, and it's time to whisk you all away to another exquisite moment in the ballet world. This month, Magic Meg and I are stepping back to 1884, the year Swan Lake first captivated audiences. Oh, the excitement!
Let's settle in with a spot of tea and, of course, a pink macaron. What better way to begin a journey through ballet history?
So, where were we? September 1884, a month bustling with ballet life. And you know me, darlings, I love nothing more than finding out what the beautiful world of ballet was up to.
This month, we find ourselves in the heart of Europe. It’s a very special month for our favourite Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova. Why? Because she's getting ready for her very first appearance at the Imperial Ballet School! She's 11, all bright-eyed and eager. How wonderfully exciting! We know how far she's going to go, and imagine, darlings, the delicate flutter of her tutu as she gracefully floats across the stage.
This period was absolutely abuzz with exciting ballet creations. You just wouldn't believe what the Paris Opera was up to. I’m talking about a new version of “Giselle” with Marie Taglioni – yes, the very one that danced in the original “Giselle.” That’s a pretty extraordinary thing, don't you think? I can just picture the audiences, captivated by the ballet's breathtaking emotions.
While Europe was engrossed in “Giselle” and the brilliance of Pavlova’s rising career, America was embracing the “The Black Crook.” The title sounds a little scary, darlings, but don’t be fooled! The American public were in a whirlwind of delight at its scandalous plot and beautifully executed dances. Imagine, daring dances in the most extraordinary costumes! It certainly had the theatre lights blazing!
You'll find me poring over journals from the period, filled with breathtaking descriptions of the ballet productions. I just love seeing the magic in every detail: the exquisitely detailed costumes, the passionate music that swept through the theatres, and the delicate elegance of every graceful move.
It's a wonder, really, how time travel works, don’t you think? To stand in a theatre with the first audiences of “Swan Lake” or witness the creation of ballet stars like Pavlova. I feel so incredibly lucky to be able to do what I do!
So, where is Magic Meg taking me next?
Right now, darlings, my rucksack is bursting with pieces of ballets history. Just wait until I’ve had the chance to show you some of the extraordinary bits and bobs I’ve found: costumes, photographs, and letters! I simply can’t wait to share them with you all.
Until next time, darlings, and remember, it’s not just about wearing pink tutus, though, of course, it’s definitely an essential ingredient in my life!
Remember to head over to www.pink-tutu.com and let me know what you thought of my post.
Until next time! Love, Emma x
*P.S. *I’ll be hosting a special performance next month, darlings, a grand ballet event to celebrate our adventures. Join me for a night of ballet magic – the costumes are going to be divine! And don’t forget, we are making it a “Pink Tutu Only” night! Don’t be shy! The more the merrier!
P.P.S. Follow my social media feeds for sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes action! It’s going to be a ballet-tastic time!
Emma’s Pink Tutu Blog - because a little pink can brighten any day www.pink-tutu.com
