Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet dedicated to all things tutu-licious! This week, we're travelling back in time to the 30th of July 1833, a most glorious date indeed! Buckle your dancing shoes and prepare for a whirl through the Romantic Era, where the art of ballet was experiencing its own Renaissance!
As a fellow Derbyshire lass (who's a tad more accustomed to the wonders of the 21st century), time travelling to the 19th century is always a thrilling experience. Imagine, no mobile phones! I just hope my corsets fit - no high tea without a perfectly nipped waistline! 😉
A Time for Dramatic Swirls and Whimsical Choreography:
Stepping into this enchanting era is like entering a painting. The costumes, my dears, are pure theatre! Picture flowing, diaphanous skirts (think Grecian drapes but with more flair) and bodice bodices, the silhouette reminiscent of an ethereal creature rather than a real-life woman.
Our focus today isn't just the dreamy tutus, though those are a definite highlight, darling. We must delve into the grand narratives that captivated audiences. Think Shakespearean plots, heroic epics, and passionate romances, all played out in the elegant language of dance. You've got your faeries and nymphs (always so alluring in a shimmering tutu!) and perhaps even some dashing knights - yes, the male dancers of this era are worthy of swooning over too!
Tutus Take Shape
While the elaborate tutus we know and love are still a little ways off, they are beginning to take shape! The early romantic ballerinas wore billowing skirts often paired with an extremely short, simple, tight bodice, providing maximum movement freedom for those famous fouettés and elegant extensions. Imagine those dreamy swirls, delicate and graceful - all the better to highlight the passion and beauty of the era.
Fashion & Fun in Paris:
Paris is still the hub of style and entertainment, my lovelies! Think ornate theatres with stunning chandeliered ceilings - you'll often see beautiful women decked out in gorgeous gowns and jewels, admiring the ballerinas' breathtaking grace. Even if it wasn't my time, darling, the energy of this era was intoxicating - the sheer passion for beauty, music and drama is something to truly revel in. Oh, and let's not forget the decadent French pastries - they certainly add to the atmosphere! 🍰🥐
The Magic of "La Sylphide":
It wouldn't be a true #TutuTuesday blog post without mentioning the iconic La Sylphide (first performed in 1832, so right around the corner from our date!). It is an unforgettable romantic ballet! Here's why it's such a sensation:
A Dreamy Love Story: The beautiful tale of a sylph (a type of fairy or spirit) who falls in love with a young man. You have heartbreak, longing, and the enchanting presence of a fantastical creature in a flowing white tutu - heavenly.
Revolution in Choreography: La Sylphide is all about the light, graceful movements of the ballerinas, those soaring leaps, and delicate landings - they bring the mythical world to life! The ballerina performing the role of the Sylphide, is quite the icon in this era!
Travel Tips for the Time Traveller:
For you daring tutu-enthusiasts wanting to experience this romantic ballet scene for yourselves, be sure to visit the Salle Le Peletier Opera House in Paris. It’s simply magnificent. Sadly, there are no affordable trains running through time, so I use a combination of creative dancing and sheer determination to navigate time travel!
And now, a glimpse of today’s world on July 30th, 1833...
This very day, 191 years ago, The Birmingham Town Hall in England was formally opened, just a little bit further north than my Derbyshire home. A rather significant building for the local community, one hopes the townsfolk had the opportunity to see a splendid ballet performance after all those long years of building it!
Until next time, my tutu-loving friends, don't forget to embrace your inner dancer!
Yours in tulle,
Emma 💖
www.pink-tutu.com
