Hello my dearest Tutu-lovers! It’s Emma here, back from another thrilling adventure through time! As you all know, here at www.pink-tutu.com, I’m all about exploring the captivating world of ballet – from its breathtaking history to the fabulous fashion that twirls alongside it. And this month, my time-traveling heart took me right back to the enchanting era of Romantic Ballet, March 2014 in particular.
This month, my trusty steed Magic Meg (oh, the sparkles! You simply have to see this pink Shires with her golden hooves and flowing white mane) took me back to Paris. Yes, Paris! The city of lights, love, and of course… the birthplace of the iconic Romantic ballet. You simply can't imagine the sheer elegance and grandeur of the Parisian opera houses back then!
We started our tour at the Opéra Garnier, a true architectural masterpiece that transported me back to the 19th century. You know, that golden era of sweeping storylines, fantastical creatures, and those incredibly long, flowing tutus. Speaking of tutus, can you believe that back in 1832, Carlotta Grisi first donned the Romantic era's iconic tutu de gaze, that billowing, transparent tutu that still holds so much power in ballet even today?
That era, my darlings, was a feast for the eyes! It was all about capturing the spirit of the "Jeune fille" - the beautiful, ethereal, almost angelic, young girl. It's no wonder these ballets captured hearts across Europe, making dancing a beloved art form for everyone.
You can still see those ballets in many of our grand theatres today, my lovelies! "Giselle", with its heartbreaking tale of a betrayed village maiden, "La Sylphide", which tells the enchanting story of a young woman in love with a fairy, and of course, "La Bayadère" with its spellbinding portrayal of love, betrayal, and divine intervention – they all take inspiration from that truly captivating era.
One of the highlights of this time-traveling ballet adventure, however, was seeing the Ballet School in Paris. The instructors are just amazing, their dedication and passion are truly inspiring. You could see in the dancers' eyes that fire, that dedication to perfecting every single turn and jump – their talent is just astonishing! I even managed to score a private ballet class from the one and only August Bournonville himself! (Can you believe it? August Bournonville, my absolute idol!). He took me on an exquisite journey through the world of pointe technique – it was exhilarating! And trust me, his famous bourrée is absolutely divine!
Now, what would a visit to the heart of Romantic Ballet be without exploring the Parisian fashion of the time? Well, I found myself swept up in the glorious world of French designers. Just imagine, gorgeous silk dresses, with voluminous layered skirts, beautiful bows, dainty jewelry, and hats adorned with feathers and flowers! (I’ll definitely be recreating those gorgeous designs, trust me!) It was absolutely irresistible and brought so much joy and inspiration. It’s not surprising that many of the most renowned fashion houses today owe their roots to that fabulous era.
While exploring this time-traveling adventure, I tucked into my leather rucksack all the lovely stories and fascinating discoveries I've gathered from the 19th century. But of course, my main focus remains spreading the joy and passion for pink tutus wherever I go. (Why do you think I’m nicknamed ‘The Pink Tutu Traveler’?) Every adventure I embark on is an opportunity to inspire and empower, making the world a brighter and more colorful place, one tutu at a time!
And don’t forget, my dearest ballet enthusiasts! The time-traveling tutu-journey never ends. Be sure to keep checking out www.pink-tutu.com for my monthly updates, and I can’t wait to share more enchanting ballet discoveries with you all soon!
Until then, keep on twirling, Emma, the Pink Tutu Traveler xx
