#BalletHistory during 1887 03 March

Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travels, your monthly dose of all things ballet and, of course, pink! Today, we're twirling back to 1887, March 3rd, a date buzzing with ballet happenings all over the world! I've got my trusty pink tutu, shimmering like a thousand dawnings, and Magic Meg, my pink-sparkling Shire with the golden hooves and snowy mane and tail, is already chomping at the bit to get us to the past.

This month, our leather rucksack, where I carefully stash my treasures, is bulging with silk ribbons, hand-drawn programmes, and even a snippet of a ballerina's journal from that era. My little pink notebook is bursting with notes about the exciting things going on in the world of ballet, and, oh, how much I wish I could share all of them with you, my dearest tutu-loving friends!

Now, climb aboard Magic Meg, and hold onto your tiaras because we're going on an adventure!

Landing in the heart of London, the air is alive with the scent of blooming violets and a buzz of excitement about the Alhambra Theatre. The Alhambra is one of London's hottest entertainment spots, and on this very day, it's showcasing the breathtaking "La Belle Hélène", a truly gorgeous piece of comedic musical theatre by Offenbach. While not strictly ballet, this enchanting production features many charming dances and lavish costumes. The theatre itself is positively overflowing with elegance - I’m positively dying to acquire a piece of its extravagant, glittery decor for my pink tutu collection!

In the City of Lights, I find myself waltzing towards the Opéra Garnier, a monument to ballet, beauty, and grandeur. The ballet world here is pulsating with a fervent passion for classical ballet. On the bill for tonight is “Giselle”, one of my absolute favourite pieces! Imagine the soaring, delicate leaps, the swirling tulle, and the heartbreaking tragedy that unfold on stage! My heart is filled with envy that I can only watch these incredible dancers from afar. But what a privilege to be a part of this enchanting spectacle, even from my little time travel nook.

Austria’s vibrant capital, Vienna, beckons with its captivating charm and music that fills every corner. Imagine me waltzing down the streets of Vienna, my pink tutu swaying gently, while a charming little melody dances in the air. Here, on the 3rd of March 1887, the enchanting world of the waltz takes center stage. In fact, waltz dancing is such a social phenomenon here, that you’ll find ladies and gentlemen swirling in the grand salons, as well as at public events. It seems there is a passion for elegant movement in Vienna’s DNA, even though it is not technically ‘ballet’. But who cares! Everything looks and feels so graceful! It inspires me to keep swirling my pink tutu and making everything feel that little bit more whimsical!

Now, off to Russia, the cradle of ballet’s incredible artistry. It’s no wonder the Imperial Ballet is held in such high esteem across the world. As I stroll through the beautiful streets of Saint Petersburg, the imposing silhouette of the Hermitage Museum reminds me of the power and artistic beauty of ballet. I’d love to take a sneak peek at the rehearsals inside, where some of the most esteemed dancers of the day practice their artistry! There is so much history in the air in Russia – it feels almost as if the stories of generations of dancers echo all around. Oh, I can't wait to share my stories and maybe find some beautiful Russian ballerinas to inspire my own dancing!

As we wave goodbye to our whirlwind adventure, I'm back in my lovely Derbyshire. But it’s not really goodbye, it’s just… see you next month! I’m feeling energised and brimming with inspiration to create my own piece, incorporating the charm of Parisian style, the strength of the Russian dancers, the grace of Viennese waltz, and, of course, the exuberance of London. And what better way to celebrate than with a pink tutu that glitters even brighter than my memories of these wonderful destinations!

Remember, darlings, every day is a chance to be the dancer, the artist, the storyteller inside yourself. I can’t wait to see you all next month, with a brand new blog filled with more magical memories of ballet time travel! And don't forget to check out our website www.pink-tutu.com! It's where I post more about ballet, my adventures, and even some amazing vintage ballet outfits (with lots and lots of pink!). Until then, keep swirling and twirling!

Love and pink glitter,

Emma xx