Hello, darling tutu enthusiasts! Emma here, back again with another whirl through the wonders of time, courtesy of my fabulous steed, Magic Meg! February 17th, 2017, might not seem like anything special on the surface, but delve into the ballet world and you'll discover it's a day ripe with intriguing history, just begging for a pink tutu spin!
It’s funny how sometimes history feels as if it happens in a big burst of moments, with gaps between, like some kind of dramatic, ever-shifting stage production! Today we’re going back to a time before the great revolutions of the late 18th Century, when life in England and across Europe moved at a slightly slower, but infinitely elegant, pace. Today, let’s visit the world of ballet in February 1717!
My imagination gets quite giddy, envisioning London’s grand, candlelit theaters with ladies and gents sporting feather boas, lavish wigs and beautiful, intricate powdered hairdos. There were no glitzy modern-day costumes; the ballet outfits of the era would be simply and elegantly made with luxurious silk and velvets, perfectly fitted to emphasise the grace and poise of the dancers, even when adorned with elaborate embroideries and gems! Can you imagine how beautiful it must have looked?!
It was a golden age for female dancers. Men were primarily the ones directing the action, but women held the centre stage in the delicate and breathtaking movements of the dance itself. As always, I have my little leather rucksack on my back, filled with bits of ephemera that bring those historic moments alive. I imagine it might have contained a dainty silken program with a description of the dances in French, alongside a little sprig of lavender as a reminder of the delicate scent of the ladies' powdered hair! I have a particular fascination with ballet programs from different eras, as each one reflects the tastes of its time.
This time around, we wouldn’t see the dramatic choreography of Petipa, as it wasn’t until almost a century later that his influence would transform the landscape of ballet. Instead, imagine lighter, delicate dances performed by talented soloists and ensembles - think of them as the precursors of our contemporary stars! The style might be different but the passion and skill that shone through centuries ago resonates with our hearts even today.
Of course, I had to try a little ballet fashion fun! After all, a little bit of "pink-ification" can elevate even the grandest of historic styles. I've popped my favourite tulle pink tutu over a beautiful ivory satin slip – the kind that would have been so luxurious back in those days. I love how the shimmering light reflects on the silk! It would certainly have been appreciated in the dim, candlelit theatres of the time. The best part? I don’t have to spend hours in a corset! A light-pink ribbon tied at the waist creates an equally stunning, but far more comfortable look!
On a day like this, Magic Meg loves a leisurely stroll along the River Thames! A day in history is incomplete without experiencing its heart. * Imagine yourself standing on a riverside bridge with boats gliding past, and watching fashionable couples enjoy leisurely walks or visit elegant tea shops for afternoon refreshments.* As for us, it’s all about embracing those moments where history breathes, the air fills with music, and you can practically hear the light footsteps of those ballet greats of the past.
While we don't have any records of ballet premieres today, February 1717, in London, our focus shifts to the cultural pulse of the city. Think about those grand plays, operas, and ballets being performed at Drury Lane Theatre, or the fashionable music evenings held by aristocracy in their stately homes. Those events weren’t merely social occasions. They represented the cutting edge of cultural trends and discussions. Can’t you just picture elegant couples in elegant clothes gliding into theaters, their conversations and attire mirroring the elegant moves of a ballet! It's pure magic, I tell you!
But our adventures don't end there! Let’s gallop (well, actually, slowly trot!) over to France, where ballet was blooming in all its grandeur. It’s said that King Louis XIV, The Sun King, himself a renowned dancer, was a champion of ballet, establishing his own royal academy, nurturing talent and driving innovation. Oh how the great monarchs, especially when they’re ballet fans, could give us such captivating glimpses into their lives! It's fascinating to note how history echoes within the rhythm of each elegant footstep.
My backpack isn't full of vintage shoes from the 18th century yet – though if I ever manage to travel back to the time of the French Revolution, I can imagine they would be simply gorgeous and very elaborate. I have collected other delightful treasures, including a beautiful pink ribbon adorned with a miniature dancer in an embroidered dress. You can’t help but feel the spirit of that period and imagine them on the stages of grand opera houses, shimmering with their costumes and grace. I couldn’t resist imagining myself swirling like a rose petal in the grand halls of the royal courts.
But, even the most adventurous journeys need a little bit of practical detail, darling! Every ballerina needs her sustenance! It’s essential to refuel for future travels, especially for someone like me who lives for dancing and spreading the pink tutu love around the globe! Tonight, I’ll be whipping up a classic British comfort food: a steaming plate of creamy shepherd’s pie with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes, washed down with a delicate English Rose tea.
So, as my blog journey with you for February ends, my love for pink tutus remains ever strong, as does my love for the history of this glorious dance! There’s simply something mesmerizing and awe-inspiring about witnessing the evolution of ballet throughout time, especially when you’ve got Magic Meg by your side! Remember, the next time you see a tutu in your ballet class, remember it’s just a piece of history come alive!
Until next time, dear ballet enthusiasts, spread the love of the pink tutu, one swirl at a time!
