Hello my lovely Tutu-Troupe! September is a month that always feels like a new beginning, a fresh start - especially this year, as it's time to don a pink tutu and take a whirl back to a particularly enchanting September day in 1889.
Oh, you're wondering why I'm in such a giddy mood? Well, my dearest readers, imagine my excitement: It's the grand opening of the Eiffel Tower in Paris! Now, I know you're thinking "Emma, what has that got to do with ballet?" - well, hold your horses (or rather, hold Magic Meg's reins!), it's going to be an absolute riot! And you know what that means? A ballet-themed escapade, naturally!
Let's rewind a little... The Eiffel Tower was designed by Gustave Eiffel for the World's Fair in 1889. It was an extraordinary structure for its time and caused quite a stir in the Parisian art scene, and oh my, was it considered so daring! Even in those days, Paris was a melting pot of creativity.
Now, I’m always ready to embrace new ideas. As for my journey to 1889, I packed my rucksack with a few key essentials: my favourite pink tutu - of course! – a lovely silk scarf for those breezy Parisian days and some crisp French francs, as I had a ballet shopping list in mind. My time travelling wardrobe also included a beautiful embroidered linen blouse with a satin bow and a knee-length cotton skirt.
You wouldn't believe the excitement as Magic Meg galloped through the streets of Paris. She is a sight to behold, with her majestic presence and her shiny pink coat. Oh, she has the most magical touch to her golden hooves and a white mane that shimmers under the moonlight.
After a delightful morning admiring the impressive grandeur of the Eiffel Tower (I even had my photo taken on the steps, wearing a hat perched on my head, what a classic!), it was time to dive into the world of ballet!
Now, imagine the stage… It's filled with the most stunning Parisian ballet dancers, performing intricate movements. Their movements were so delicate and precise, almost like birds in flight, oh how I dreamed of joining them! As always, my heart went a flutter watching the gentle, beautiful flow of each step. The whole atmosphere was buzzing, electric even! You see, I truly believe there’s no experience quite like watching ballet. There is a shared sense of grace, passion, and dedication, even across time and continents!
I was utterly spellbound by the dancers' grace and beauty. One particularly memorable scene featured a waltz set to the captivating tunes of Tchaikovsky. The way the dancers swayed to the music, their costumes flowing in the air – it truly was magical! Of course, I couldn’t resist taking notes and sketches in my notebook, capturing the magic of it all for my readers back in Derbyshire. I imagine, if you were there, you would be mesmerised too.
Now, here's a bit of juicy gossip for you: The famous "Danse Macabre", originally a poem written by Victor Hugo in the mid-1800s, became a hit on stage. This dance was filled with haunting drama and beauty and was performed in 1889 by famous ballet companies. Talk about “stepping” out of your comfort zone, it must have been sensational to watch those bold performances, oh, I yearn to time travel to 1889 and watch it all for myself!
After an enchanting evening of dance, I walked the bustling streets of Paris. The lights were enchanting, like a scene from a fairytale, and they reflected beautifully off Magic Meg's golden hooves as we made our way through the throng of elegant people.
My evening was dedicated to French ballet fashion. Think beautiful, flowing chiffon gowns adorned with delicate lace and feathers. My favourite design featured a soft pink dress with lace ruffles around the bodice - how divine, I must try and design something similar!
I then visited one of the most enchanting dance halls. Oh, it was a vision! Think grand ballrooms and dazzling chandeliers. Imagine waltzing the night away with gentlemen in velvet jackets and top hats. As I twirled across the dance floor, surrounded by the warmth of this time and the magical city of Paris, I knew, even more than ever, that the tutu will always be the ultimate expression of fashion, beauty, and artistry.
As I travel back to the 21st century, with my memories and my collection of beautiful ballet-inspired treasures – a beautifully embroidered scarf and a lovely book filled with ballet routines – tucked away safely in my rucksack, I can't wait to share them with you all.
It's time to close this post for now. But know this, darling readers - I’m always on the hunt for new and exciting ways to showcase the beauty and grace of ballet! Keep a watchful eye on pink-tutu.com, where I'll continue my time travel adventures - next time, we're off to explore the vibrant dance scenes of Victorian London!
Till next time, my Tutu-Troupe! And, remember – life is a dance!
Your Emma
P.S. – Keep spreading the pink tutu love!
