Hello darlings, and welcome to another installment of my Pink Tutu Time Travels! This month, we're setting our sights on a day back in 1886, November 11th to be precise. Oh my, did you know that in 1886 the iconic Royal Opera House, the heart of ballet in London, had just undergone a stunning restoration?! Imagine the glittering chandeliers, the plush velvet seating and the exquisite ballet performances taking place within those hallowed halls. The thrill!
As usual, I couldn't resist the temptation to take my trusty, and fabulously pink, Magic Meg for a gallop through the ages. This majestic Shire mare with her shimmering golden hooves and flowing white mane and tail simply makes time travel a joy. Imagine, galloping through centuries on a horse that literally shimmers with pink sparkle! It’s pure enchantment!
We arrived in London, 1886, and oh darling, you wouldn’t believe the fabulous fashions! Lace, ribbons and a smattering of extravagant frills and ruffles - what's not to love? It reminded me a little of the latest ballet costumes, and I just knew that a pink tutu would be the perfect finishing touch to these already delightful ensembles. After all, why wait for the future to wear pink?!
Now, on this particular date, November 11th, the London ballet world was ablaze with excitement! I was lucky enough to witness the grand debut of a truly exceptional piece called “La Source”. It was an exquisite ballet by the esteemed choreographer, Marius Petipa, known for his stunning choreography. Imagine flowing movements, breathtaking artistry and a vibrant tale of love and adventure all set to a magical score. Absolutely magical, darlings!
The Londoners were smitten! The elegance of the ballerinas, the grace of the male dancers - truly a testament to the sheer beauty and artistry of ballet. Of course, my favourite detail, as always, was the tutus - every ballerina on stage was swirling in her own captivatingly delicate version of the timeless ballerina classic! And they wore them with such poise, each twirl and jump showcasing the ultimate ballet fashion.
The Royal Opera House is truly the centre of the world for ballet enthusiasts like me. To experience such a vibrant and thriving dance scene from a time almost 150 years ago, it really put a pep in my twirling step, I can tell you!
Oh, and my dear, speaking of twirling, you'll never guess what I found tucked away in a vintage bookshop tucked away near the Covent Garden? An original, first edition of the first-ever ballet textbook, “The Art of Dancing” by the legendary Italian ballet dancer and teacher, Carlo Blasis.
It's full of intricate diagrams and elegant descriptions, explaining the secrets to perfect posture and technique. Blasis was considered the master of ballet and this little treasure, with its crisp pages and intricate illustrations, is a veritable historical gem.
With the day’s treasures packed securely in my trusty leather rucksack, Magic Meg and I sped back through time to my familiar world. The rush of history can be exhausting, even with the magic of a pink horse by your side. I’m planning a relaxing afternoon of shopping and perhaps a decadent slice of Victoria sponge - after all, a time travelling ballerina needs to be treated occasionally.
Stay fabulous and remember to always wear a pink tutu!
Your favourite time travelling ballerina,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
