Hello, darling ballet enthusiasts! It's Emma here, your pink tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you away on another fabulous journey through history! This month, I'm thrilled to be sharing a whirlwind tour of Paris in the summer of 1869 - a time when ballet was positively blooming!
As always, I was accompanied by my trusty steed, Magic Meg. Her shimmering pink coat, gold hooves and cascading white mane shone in the summer sun as we galloped towards the bustling heart of Paris. I, of course, was dressed for the occasion in my favourite pink tutu - a little extra shimmer was required for the Parisian air, you know! 💖
My rucksack was prepped and ready, brimming with excitement for all the ballet treasures I might find in the Parisian ballet world of the 19th century. And let me tell you, the thrill of stepping into history is a sensation unlike any other.
The very air hummed with the energy of creativity, and as I explored, the grandeur of Parisian theatre, fashion, and dance captivated me entirely.
Parisian Ballet: A Stage Set for Romance and Grandeur
Stepping into the Théâtre de l'Opéra, it was a sensory overload of wonder. The intricate details of the theatre architecture, the plush velvet seats, the buzzing chatter of theatregoers, and the anticipation before the curtain rise... It all fuelled my passion for the magic of ballet.
The dance scene in 1869 Paris was alive with new ideas. Choreographers like Marius Petipa were pushing boundaries and embracing theatrical spectacle with stunning visual effects and romantic narratives that enthralled the audiences. Imagine being a part of this dazzling world of romantic ballerinas in billowing tulle skirts, leaping and twirling under shimmering crystal chandeliers. The music was just as magical!
The great ballerinas of the time, like Fanny Cerrito and Lucile Grahn, embodied both technical excellence and graceful artistry, their performances captivating audiences with ethereal charm and power. These women were real-life heroines, challenging the limitations of dance and defying societal expectations! They were inspirational then, and they continue to inspire us today.
My Parisian Fashion Finds:
And who can talk about 19th-century Paris without mentioning fashion? My oh my! The ladies of the city were as stylish as the dance itself! With wide hoop skirts, elegant bustles, and beautiful bonnets, they truly understood the importance of a fashion statement.
Even though I adore the simplicity of my pink tutu, I must admit, the fashion in Paris truly stole my heart! I couldn't resist a few little trinkets from the vintage stores in the charming Parisian streets, including:
- A beautiful velvet bonnet, a delicate mix of ivory and cerulean blue, trimmed with black feathers - perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any Parisian escapade.
- *A vintage lace parasol with a floral design, guaranteed to keep any ballerina looking fabulous while out for a romantic stroll by the Seine. *
- A miniature pair of delicate dancing shoes made of leather, adorned with tiny beads and ribbons - they were irresistible, a perfect keepsake for my ballet collection.
These finds are perfect reminders of the graceful fashion of Paris in the 19th century and, well, a little sprinkle of Parisian charm never hurt anyone!
Fashion & Fun: A Ballet Bloggers Dream
From watching rehearsals at the Opéra Garnier to taking in a performance of the romantic masterpiece "La Esmeralda", every moment was a feast for my ballet senses.
I was lucky to even meet the one and only, Marie Taglioni! She was a ballet legend in her own right and a vision of graceful beauty. It was such a honour to meet such a remarkable woman! It felt like an actual fairy tale, talking to the queen of Romantic ballet herself! I was positively star-struck! She signed a few ballet books for me which I tucked into my rucksack - treasures to add to my collection! I think these will have a special place of honour in my London apartment when I return.
It wasn’t all just dancing and fashion, darling! There was food! Oh my! The croissants, the fresh pastries, the exquisite cakes, and divine macarons. The cafes were filled with creative energy, and the scent of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air like a delicious perfume. The cafes themselves were bursting with beautiful architecture, delicate china, and a sense of relaxed socialising - just my kind of setting!
As always, my travels are never complete without a spot of shopping!
Back to Present-Day, and the pink tutu persists:
My trip to Paris has once again reminded me why ballet is such an important part of life! From its majestic costumes to the romantic storylines, and its emotional power, it never ceases to amaze me.
I want to inspire you all to wear your pink tutus and be your most beautiful selves, darling! It's not just about ballet but also about creativity, self-expression, and a touch of whimsical glamour. Don't let anyone tell you it’s not for you! It is all for you, and your beautiful, amazing selves! Embrace your inner ballerina!
To add to the excitement, here's a little glimpse of what's happening in the ballet world right now! This June 2019:
- The Royal Ballet is hosting a beautiful production of "Giselle", and, darlings, I simply can’t recommend it enough! The story, the dance, the costume... the costumes! I can't even contain my excitement! You won't regret this experience.
The English National Ballet is showcasing the captivating "Swan Lake" at The London Coliseum, and that always a special treat! The elegance of this performance never fails to move me, especially that famous Act 4, when the swan queens, dressed in their flowing white tutus, move with incredible grace and strength. Truly enchanting!
*Where to Next? *
It is back to the drawing board, darlings, to figure out my next time travel escapade! I've a hunch that we'll be exploring the American ballet scene next! Stay tuned for more adventures on www.pink-tutu.com!
Until next month, dance beautifully and with love, Emma xx
