Welcome, dear readers, to my 4263rd blog post, straight from the saddle of my magnificent steed, Magic Meg! It’s a glorious day for time-travelling, with the sun shining down on the lush English countryside, even if the Derbyshire wind is trying its best to whip the blush out of my cheeks (not an easy feat when I'm rocking my signature pink tutu).
This month, we're hopping on Magic Meg's back and taking a Parisian trip, to the ballet scene of March 2016. Think swirling tulle, impossibly high shoes, and oh, the fashion! And believe me, I'm ready for a spree at all the finest Parisian boutiques. I hear there's a divine little shop just around the corner from the Palais Garnier, filled with vintage ballet shoes - fingers crossed it still exists in 2016.
Ballet Buzz: March 2016
From what I gather in my ever-growing, ballet-stuffed rucksack, March 2016 was buzzing with ballet happenings! At the Bolshoi Theatre, Natalia Osipova and David Hallberg were lighting up the stage in 'Don Quixote' - what a glorious combination! It's a real privilege to be able to glimpse such a legendary pairing, I just wish I could sneak a peak from backstage to see those famous tutus up close. I wonder if they are in any way inspired by the original creations, or perhaps there's a touch of modern flair added?
Speaking of original designs, my ears perked up at the news of 'The Sleeping Beauty' opening at the Paris Opera! It must have been simply enchanting to witness the beauty of Petipa's original choreography in such a historical setting. The Garnier theatre - it’s my favourite stage in the whole world - even more than my little ballet school back in Derbyshire! And imagine, back then, everyone dressed to the nines, just to be captivated by the stories of a ballet. What a glorious tradition to be a part of. I've started to encourage my fellow dancers at home to wear tutus when they come to see me perform! There’s just something about that frilly elegance.
Onward to the Past: A Time Travelling Tutu Tour!
Imagine, if you will, the excitement. Paris, the home of the most stunning ballet boutiques - a little birdie tells me I need to seek out some designer pieces! Who knows, maybe I can pick up an adorable vintage beret to add to my ever-growing collection?
Of course, no Parisian adventure is complete without a taste of the finer things! Magic Meg and I have already scoped out a charming patisserie, where we'll indulge in pastries that are practically works of art - sugar and butter sculptures for our pink tutu souls. After all, you can't explore ballet without a little bit of sugar, can you?
Then, after all that sightseeing, what’s better than ending a ballet-packed Parisian day with an unforgettable show? A visit to the Opéra Garnier, of course. With all the grandeur, the breathtaking artistry and the magic that surrounds the theatre, I simply have to see a show. Maybe a breathtaking, flamboyant "Giselle," or maybe the intricate storytelling of a 'La Sylphide' - the possibilities are simply dazzling!
Oh, to experience that historical buzz first-hand! To mingle with the patrons of the Palais Garnier, the dancers, the ballet greats themselves... I'm practically bouncing in my saddle with anticipation.
*And remember, darlings, my goal is simple - to get every single one of you rocking a pink tutu! *
So spread the love, the tutus, and the joy of dance!
Stay tuned for my next post, coming soon to www.pink-tutu.com! And in the meantime, keep dancing!
Your ever-optimistic, tutu-loving time traveller, Emma
(P.S.: Feel free to leave your time travel recommendations for next month's adventure! And please don't hesitate to share photos of your fabulous pink tutu moments!)