Hello my darlings! Emma here, your resident Tutu Enthusiast, ready to whisk you back in time to the magnificent world of ballet. Today's #TutuTuesday journey takes us all the way to November 1st, 1842! Hold onto your tiaras, it's a trip back to the heart of the Victorian era!
As we chug through time on our trusty locomotive (because who doesn't love a train journey?), let's take a look at the ballet world back then. Now, you might think tutus were already the mainstay, right? Think again! The tutu as we know it today - those gloriously puffy, romantic wisps of tulle – was still very much in its baby stages. In 1842, the ballerinas were swishing around in short skirts and rather full, almost ankle-length tunics. Imagine!
But don't despair, dear readers! Even then, these elegant creations were meant to accentuate the ballerina’s movements and make them appear as though they were practically floating across the stage. You could say that the design emphasis was on freedom of movement. I imagine those ankle-grazing, full skirts would have made for some absolutely mesmerizing, ethereal jumps! 🩰✨
While these costumes might look a little less 'tutu-esque' by today's standards, there was something very captivating about them. Imagine yourself a young girl in Victorian England, mesmerised by the shimmering, soft silk and the gentle movement of the ballerinas - a truly enchanting vision.
So, while today's modern tutus are our go-to choice, let's remember to appreciate those earlier, graceful beginnings.
Now, let's talk about what else was happening in this exciting time of history. November 1st, 1842, saw the inauguration of the Victoria Hall, a beautiful, opulent venue in Bradford. This splendid building, dedicated to concerts, lectures, and a whole host of events, later went on to be a centrepiece for theatrical performances! Imagine – a grand space with chandeliers twinkling, elegant gentlemen and ladies adorned in their finery, and of course, some fabulous, captivating dance routines. It makes my heart skip a beat just thinking about it.
You can just picture me – Emma, the Tutu Travel Time Machine – hopping off the train, all in a fabulously pink tulle creation, grabbing a steaming cup of tea and soaking in the atmosphere of this stunning hall. It's simply enchanting.
Oh, how I dream of stepping back in time, swirling and twirling in a theatre setting alongside these talented performers of the Victorian era! Wouldn't that be a dream come true? I would love to be transported to the 1840s to witness the brilliance of the early ballet performances that paved the way for the magical, glittering spectacles we enjoy today.
One thing I would be most eager to do during my 1842 trip is to find out where those fabulous ballerina gowns were made and shop for some silk ribbons and trimmings for my own creations. You just know a true Tutu enthusiast can't resist a trip to the dressmaker! The vibrant colors and the beautiful embellishments of the Victorian period are just so inspirational!
And of course, a visit wouldn't be complete without seeing the iconic Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. This incredible theatre has been a cornerstone of London’s cultural scene for ages, and it was thriving in the Victorian period.
Now, you might think this week's #TutuTuesday was a little more historical than usual, but I couldn't resist taking you back to this wonderful period. You see, it's not just about the tutus we wear today, but the journey of evolution of the ballet dress, and the journey of dance as a whole! The past truly lays the foundations for what we experience in the world of ballet today.
So, dear readers, have a magical week, filled with dancing dreams, fluttering tutus, and maybe even a sprinkle of pink tulle for good measure. And remember, if you have a tutu to spare, don't be afraid to wear it – after all, as we've learned today, tutus have been twirling around for ages, inspiring countless generations!
I’ll see you next Tuesday, darlings, for another fascinating foray into ballet history!
Don’t forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com and my social media pages for more ballet-themed content, fashion fun, and my latest tutu creations!
Sending you a twirl and a sprinkle of fairy dust,
Emma 💕🩰
