Hello my lovely ballet bunnies! Emma here, ready to whisk you away on another time-traveling adventure in my trusty pink tutu, courtesy of Magic Meg, my shimmering pink Shire horse. This month, we're stepping back to the elegant era of 1887, a time when ballet was evolving with stunning grace. So grab your teacups, darling, and let's pirouette into the past!
Before we embark on our journey, I just have to tell you about my newest treasure! Remember how I mentioned my leather rucksack, filled with stories and trinkets from my time-traveling adventures? Well, it now houses a gorgeous pair of delicate ballet slippers from this very year, 1887. They are the most exquisite shade of cream, hand-stitched with the finest silk ribbons, and I just had to snatch them from a dusty old shop window in… well, you'll have to keep reading to find out!
But first, a quick update on my life as a ballerina! December has been jam-packed with rehearsals for my upcoming "Nutcracker" performance, and let me tell you, there are few things as exhilarating as seeing a packed audience come alive as the music begins! I’ve been practicing my sugar plum pas de deux every chance I get, and I'm absolutely buzzing with excitement to be taking centre stage. And as for my tutus? Let's just say, my pink tulle wardrobe is overflowing with exquisite creations that shimmer like starlight.
Oh, and speaking of starlight, wouldn't you love to see the exquisite ballgowns of the 1880s? I can just imagine myself twirling in one of these exquisite creations! Such beautiful silk, flowing trains, and the most delicate lace embroidery – I could happily spend all day shopping for a vintage ballgown from this era!
Now, about that 12th of December in 1887… it was a cold, crisp day, perfect for cozying up by a fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa (if only they had invented hot cocoa back then!). Ballet, however, was alive and thriving in London's Covent Garden. A grand performance of "Swan Lake" by the Royal Ballet Company was set to grace the stage that evening, a captivating ballet showcasing the incredible athleticism of ballerinas and the enduring tale of love and tragedy. It’s something I can only imagine being truly spectacular – can you imagine seeing "Swan Lake" for the very first time? The thrill!
Now, how did I get to London from Derbyshire? That's where Magic Meg comes in! It's all thanks to this marvelous horse and his glittering hooves that I get to see such fantastic ballet performances. Just imagine: leaping across the fields of Derbyshire one moment, and twirling around the stage in London the next. It's truly magical!
During my journey to the theatre, I witnessed some of the finest Victorian architecture in its glory. From grand churches and bustling markets to the cobbled streets of London, every detail captivated me. It was like stepping into a fairytale. I was mesmerized by the hustle and bustle of the crowds, the beautiful carriages driven by impeccably dressed gentlemen, and the sound of tinkling piano music from every window. It was pure, unadulterated Victorian romance!
Inside Covent Garden Theatre, I marvelled at the lavish décor. Red velvet seats, gleaming chandeliers, and a hush falling over the audience as the music began – truly an experience to remember! Imagine those talented dancers performing "Swan Lake", their delicate movements flowing with exquisite elegance against the stunning backdrop. What an evening it must have been!
That evening, I slipped away from the bustling crowd with my rucksack on my back, searching for a treasure. I ended up at an antique shop on a quiet side street, where I discovered a beautifully worn pair of satin ballet slippers. I immediately knew I had found a unique reminder of this time. And who knows? Maybe the ballerina who once wore these slippers performed on this very same stage. Now, they rest comfortably in my bag, waiting to tell their story.
After an exciting night in London, Magic Meg and I set off back to Derbyshire, the night sky twinkling like scattered diamonds. My mind buzzing with the excitement of a beautiful evening of ballet and Victorian elegance, I began to think about the future. I realised how much we, in the 21st century, owe to these passionate pioneers who paved the way for us. So let us not forget them, but continue their legacy with every leap, every twirl, every dazzling performance!
This December, let’s celebrate the art of ballet. Go see a performance, try a ballet class, and get involved in this wondrous world. Who knows, maybe we can even convince a few more people to try wearing pink tutus! Remember, darling, every single one of us has a dancer within us, ready to blossom.
See you next month,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
