Hello my dearest tutu-loving friends! Welcome back to another delightful escapade in the world of ballet history, right here on pink-tutu.com. This month, my dear Meg and I are venturing back to 11th November 1885 - such a significant date in ballet history!
My trusty steed, Meg, with her gleaming golden hooves and shimmering pink coat, is already pawing the ground with excitement. I’ve packed my rucksack with my favourite pink notebook, ready to scribble down every fascinating ballet fact and fabulous fashion trend from that year!
Just the thought of it has me spinning with delight. Imagine: cobbled streets, horse-drawn carriages, and bustling London theatre districts, all filled with the magic of ballet!
Before we hop on Meg, let me tell you about the reason I chose this particular date. You see, in 1885, a ballet classic that holds a very special place in my heart made its debut. It was the year “La Esmeralda”, a romantic ballet set against the backdrop of 15th century Paris, graced the stage for the first time. This story of love, loss, and tragedy, set to the beautiful melodies of Cesare Pugni, has captivated audiences for generations, and I'm so thrilled to witness its early days in its Parisian glory!
Speaking of Parisian glory, just picture me trotting down the Parisian streets in my pink tulle tutu – I can practically hear the gasp of delight and the whispers of "Mais c'est magnifique!" Now, how could I possibly resist that? Perhaps I'll even visit the iconic Opera Garnier, imagining those incredible performers stepping onto the stage, the velvet curtains parting to reveal a world of grace and artistry!
I can just imagine the buzz of excitement surrounding the debut of “La Esmeralda”. The grand staircases would be abuzz with fashionistas in their opulent gowns, and the theatres would be bursting with laughter, whispers, and hushed anticipation.
Imagine waltzing through a beautiful ball in my pink tutu – just think of the swirls of taffeta, the glittering chandeliers, and the gentle strains of a waltz, all set in such a beautifully-dressed world! This will be my most decadent time travel escapade yet!
Of course, a ballet trip wouldn't be complete without a trip to the ateliers and shops of the most celebrated Parisian designers. Perhaps the legendary Charles Frederick Worth would even grace us with his presence. The fashion, oh the fashion, just picture the corseted silhouettes, the lavish gowns and feathered headpieces – it truly is a fashion dream come true! I bet the shop windows are simply breathtaking with their elegant displays! I have my trusty rucksack packed and ready to gather snippets of fabric, fashion sketches, and a few choice whispers of fashion history from this time!
But of course, a true ballerina needs to move, so we must find ourselves a danse class – you know I love me a good ballet barre! Just imagine practicing alongside those elegant Parisian ballerinas, their flowing tulle and perfect grace. I'm sure I can glean some precious dancing tips. Even if they look at me a little strangely – pink tutu and all!
Then we shall find ourselves at a theatre to experience a grand performance - what a delightful night of elegance and beauty! I just imagine the orchestra tuning up, the velvet curtains opening, and a world of breathtaking grace and artistic brilliance revealed to us!
Before I ride off into the swirling, time-turning clouds with my Meg, let me leave you with some more delicious ballet snippets:
Can you imagine, 1885 saw a rising star – a ballerina who was taking the world by storm! Her name? La Belle Otero – this stunning dancer was known for her captivating style and breathtaking performances. I wonder if I’ll be lucky enough to catch her show!
Even back then, the world was full of artistic spirits who loved nothing more than to move their bodies! There was even a dance known as "The Polka" which was taking England by storm! How utterly charming, isn’t it? Maybe I’ll find myself caught up in a dance frenzy myself!
My heart is beating with excitement. It’s going to be an absolutely amazing journey, filled with twirling, elegant fashion, and some magical moments!
Don't forget to keep up with all the ballet buzz here on pink-tutu.com. Until next month, I shall be twirling, leaping, and living every ballet moment in glorious technicolour – oh, and don't forget, I'll be posting all about it, along with all the fashion and historical insights in my journal, so stay tuned!
Lots of twirling love,
Emma x
