Dearest readers,
Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travels! This month we're going back in time to July 2007, a date forever etched in my memory for the magical ballet adventure I experienced!
The sun was shining brightly in Derbyshire as I, Emma, set off on a new ballet escapade with my faithful steed, Magic Meg, the shimmering pink Shire horse with the golden hooves, flowing white mane and tail, a true dream pony. We had a date with destiny - a waltz through Parisian history!
My rucksack, packed with my ballet notebook and a shimmering pink ribbon (you never know when you might need a little bit of sparkle) was securely strapped to Meg's back, and off we trotted, through fields and forests, through time and space, until we found ourselves at the edge of a Parisian park, a scent of croissants and blooming roses hanging in the air.
July 2007 was a particularly exciting time for ballet lovers in Paris. At the iconic Palais Garnier, home to the Opéra National de Paris, there was a grand revival of La Bayadère. This legendary ballet, first staged in 1877, had recently been restored and presented by the renowned choreographer, Natalia Makarova.
To be able to attend this special performance was a true dream! Imagine, swirling skirts, intricate choreography, and that exquisite romanticism! The music by Ludwig Minkus, it was simply divine! And the costumes? Breathtaking! From the vibrant, exotic costumes of the Bayadère to the ethereal grace of the white tutus, every outfit was a piece of art!
There was also a new ballet to be seen at the Garnier - "Le Grand Pas de Deux", a dazzling performance full of virtuosity and romanticism. What a privilege to see two dancers perform the pas de deux with such skill, passion, and elegance, reminding me of the delicate, powerful relationship between dancer and partner, a beautiful symphony of movements!
However, Parisian ballet wasn't confined to grand opera houses. As I wandered through the cobbled streets, I found myself drawn to the Salle Pleyel, another jewel of Parisian culture. A smaller stage, a different energy, yet just as much grace and artistic flair! There, the Ballet de l'Opéra National du Rhin was performing a thrilling contemporary ballet, a bold experiment that showcased both classic balletic techniques and avant-garde interpretations, truly pushing the boundaries of ballet in the most enchanting way!
In those days, Parisian ballet was a whirlwind of creativity and artistry, a melting pot of styles, traditions, and contemporary ideas. I found myself swept away by the passionate performances, the exquisite costumes, the rich history of the art form that surrounded me. And of course, the opportunity to see so much talent - it truly made my heart sing!
Of course, my visit to Paris wouldn't have been complete without a visit to one of its many renowned fashion houses! A must-see in July was the Christian Lacroix Haute Couture show. Imagine! A spectacular extravaganza, overflowing with intricate embroideries, sumptuous fabrics, and innovative silhouettes! It was an absolute feast for the eyes, and I confess I even stole a small embroidered feather from one of the designs, adding it to my collection of ballet memorabilia, nestled safely within my rucksack.
Paris is a place of wonder, of elegance, and of artistic brilliance. In 2007, it was truly buzzing with the energy of ballet, a testament to the enduring appeal of this magical art form!
I hope you enjoyed my little peek into Parisian ballet life in 2007. Don't forget, dear readers, that if you want to find out more about my adventures, you can always visit www.pink-tutu.com. And who knows? Maybe next month I'll find myself dancing the tango in Argentina!
Until next time, let your hearts dance and don't forget your pink tutu!
Emma x
