Hello my darling dance lovers! It's Emma here, back from another enchanting time travel adventure. This month, I’ve been whisked away to April 1894 – and what a vibrant, stylish period it turned out to be!
Imagine my delight when Magic Meg (yes, she still sparkles!), pranced me into the heart of Paris. The streets were buzzing with life, the scent of freshly baked croissants filled the air, and every single lady was sporting a divine ensemble. I just had to pop into some of the grand shops and admire the dazzling fashion on offer - bustles, silks, feathers, and lace - a vision in shades of ivory, blush, and cerise. My pink tutu certainly stood out in such an elegant crowd!
You might wonder what inspired this particular time trip, my lovelies? Well, you see, this date marked the première of the first ever ballet class specifically designed for children. Now, imagine my excitement – to travel back in time to witness such a landmark moment!
The Paris Conservatoire de Musique became a little hotbed of tutus that day, as tiny ballerinas, some as young as six, took their first tentative steps towards ballet stardom. Their tiny, pastel-coloured costumes and bright eyes full of wonder melted my heart.
The ballet world in 1894, in general, was buzzing with creativity and excitement. Over in London, they were holding the annual Royal Opera House charity performance to aid poor, struggling ballerinas - such a fantastically generous move!
Speaking of London, this was the very month that Auguste Vestris, the greatest male dancer of his day (just wait till you see some of his photos, darling - a real charmer!) announced his retirement from the stage. That news definitely got tongues wagging at the opera house.
Now, I just had to try on a Victorian-era tutu - a fluffy concoction of tulle, ruffles, and ribbon, it certainly tickled my fancy! The* ballroom waltzes* of the era would have been absolutely enchanting, wouldn't they?
Back home in Derbyshire, Derby itself was alive with theatrical activity - the Grand Theatre Royal held a gala night dedicated to the iconic English ballet pioneer Dame Marie Rambert, a dancer who is, by far, one of the most important figures in the development of English ballet – even up to this day. And guess what? Her story is one for another post, you won't believe the daring leaps this little darling did!
Of course, I had to add these historic events to my precious leather rucksack, carefully tucked alongside stories of my Parisian adventure. Every new experience I collect strengthens my determination - to inspire all of you to embrace the magic of ballet and wear your very own pink tutu!
Now, my lovely dance-delighted readers, I must get going! There’s so much ballet magic still to discover – who knows what adventure April brings next? I hope you are ready for my next exciting blog post. Do join me over at www.pink-tutu.com and subscribe to my page.
See you next month!
Love,
Emma xx
