Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, and you know what day it is - it's the 3rd of March! But not just any 3rd of March, this is a special one because it's the 3rd of March, 1906, and my oh my, this was a big day in ballet!
Magic Meg, my sparkling pink Shire with golden hooves, snorted with excitement as we arrived in the bustle of London, ready for another whirlwind trip into the glorious past. Now, as you all know, my rucksack is practically bursting with amazing ballet treasures – programmes, photos, and stories that I'll be telling you about soon. I love nothing more than being transported back to a time when ballet was truly something special!
Before we even had the chance to dismount Meg, the scent of lilac perfume and the vibrant chatter of ladies in magnificent feathered hats hit us. And I tell you, my dears, this day was simply abuzz with all things ballet!
We decided to head straight to the Royal Opera House, my absolute favourite place on earth. Can you believe that they're already presenting La Traviata, my darling? Oh, the sheer beauty of that tragic story! I even caught a glimpse of the renowned Adelina Patti, who sang the leading role. Imagine, my dear reader!
While in London, I discovered that another famous Parisian dancer, Carlotta Zambelli, was performing at the Empire Theatre! I simply had to see her. The show was quite the spectacle - a riot of light and colour, costumes overflowing with sparkle and feathers. Carlotta's dancing was spectacular, each movement like a bird taking flight. And did I mention that her tutus were in a wonderful, bright, candy pink?
Later that night, we were whisked off to a magnificent private performance at the Marlborough House. Now, you see, dear readers, a good tutu isn't just for public performance! I, for one, find it terribly elegant even when dancing for intimate audiences. You all know that I do love a bit of social dancing, so naturally, the beautiful music and grand décor filled my heart with joy!
But what did my rucksack collect for the day?
- A programme from La Traviata at the Royal Opera House - you know I adore programmes!
- A silk rose from the stage of the Empire Theatre. Gorgeous!
- A hand-painted portrait of Carlotta Zambelli – just imagine the beauty and detail!
- A snippet of an embroidered dance routine for a waltz, found at the Marlborough House. You see, in the days of waltzes and courtly dances, a beautiful pattern and choreography went into the routine itself. It’s a reminder that elegance is not simply on the surface, but in the movement as well.
So, you see, the 3rd of March, 1906 was quite a day! I saw incredible performances, met delightful people, and soaked up the wonderful energy of the time. Oh, to live in a time where elegance and grace are so celebrated! And, darling readers, I must say, it was almost as if my very presence inspired a new sense of flair, particularly in the London theatres.
After a whirlwind day in London, Magic Meg and I headed back to Derbyshire. The star-filled sky painted the way with soft hues of pink, perfectly matching the twilight sky and my favourite colour. I am just so grateful for my gift, the gift of time travel. It allows me to share with you, dear readers, all the beauty and wonder that is hidden away in the glorious history of ballet!
And what are you doing in your life to celebrate the grace and magic of ballet, darling? Share your own experiences in the comments below. As always, remember that your love for dance and everything pink will truly shine brightest when you step into a tutu and embrace the elegance of movement.
Until next time, dance like you've never danced before, and remember to wear your pink tutus! 💖🩰
Yours in dancing delight,
Emma xx
