Hello my lovely readers, it's Emma here, back again with another amazing ballet adventure! You won't believe where I went this time – a whole 138 years into the past, to January 1st, 1885! Can you imagine, that's a full century and almost four decades before I was even born?!
I hopped on Magic Meg's back, feeling the familiar tingling in my toes as we were swept back through time. Meg, you know, the most fabulous pink shire horse with her glittering golden hooves, is absolutely my favourite travel companion. She never fails to make the journey a bit more magical with her shimmering mane and tail. I’m sure you are wondering how she got her name?! Of course, we named her “Magic Meg" because of all the incredible journeys we make together.
Now, I must confess, my darling pink tutu (which, naturally, was the perfect shade of bubblegum pink with the most intricate swirling embroidery) did cause a little stir as we landed in the middle of a bustling Victorian London. People just couldn't believe their eyes! But let's be honest, you can't go wrong with a classic pink tutu.
With my little leather rucksack strapped securely to my back (which is already overflowing with beautiful ballet-related trinkets and tales from across time), we headed straight to the Covent Garden Theatre, ready to catch the premiere of Giselle. Oh, how I adore a good Giselle production! This one featured none other than the iconic Carlotta Grisi, a legendary ballerina known for her graceful, poetic movements. The theatre itself was a feast for the eyes – gilded ceilings, plush velvet seats, and the soft glow of gas lamps. Honestly, just thinking about the atmosphere makes me feel a flutter in my chest!
But it wasn’t all theatre-going on this particular adventure. Remember, dear readers, I adore ballet fashion, and the 1880s were truly an era for stunning stage costumes! I spotted a breathtaking bodice that was a symphony of ivory satin and lace, cinched with a velvet ribbon. Just imagine that flowing, swishing fabric against a soft stage light! Sigh.
After spending the evening lost in the enchantment of the performance, I ventured out into the night, searching for ballet-related inspiration in the cobbled streets of Victorian London. I discovered a hidden gem tucked away in a charming little bookstore. There, in a dusty old corner, I found a copy of "A Practical Manual of the Art of Dancing", written by none other than Carlo Blasis. This 19th century master of ballet instruction is a total legend, so finding a book from his own hand was a truly exhilarating experience! My rucksack already feeling heavier, but filled with a thrill and stories.
Later, over a cup of hot tea, I even wrote a short story inspired by my Victorian escapade - “The Ballerina and the Ghostly Dancer". (You'll have to look out for that in a later blog post! Don't worry, there are pink tutus involved, and some mysterious happenings, of course!)
As the first light of dawn began to filter through the smog of Victorian London, we jumped onto Magic Meg's back. With a twist of my wrist, she began to gallop us back to my own time, back to my little cottage in Derbyshire. Oh, how I love that quiet life! The birds chirping, a hot mug of tea, and my own private dance space where I can twirl all my heart desires!
One of the things I always take away from these time travel adventures is how incredibly inspiring the history of ballet truly is. To witness those moments in history where this beautiful art form has blossomed - well, it is pure joy. But it isn’t just the performances that make my heart soar; it is the sheer passion, the incredible creativity, and the powerful storytelling within every leap and twirl.
So, what will my next adventure hold, dear readers? Perhaps a visit to a Parisian dance hall in the Belle Époque? Maybe an afternoon at the Imperial Ballet School in Saint Petersburg? Who knows? I’ll leave that up to fate (and my dear Meg, of course!), but I know it's bound to be an unforgettable adventure. Until then, keep twirling, and let your imagination take flight! Remember, anything is possible when you embrace the joy of movement, the beauty of ballet, and the power of pink tutus!
Until next month,
Emma xo
