Welcome back, darlings, to my little corner of the internet, www.pink-tutu.com, and a very happy #TutuTuesday to you! This week, my darling tutus and I have hopped into my trusty time-travelling machine and are off to the year 1843, specifically to a charming Parisian theatre. Let me tell you, there's a lot to love about the world of ballet during this time period. It's a world just buzzing with energy, full of swirling skirts and shimmering sequins, just begging to be brought into focus for our #TutuTuesday
Itâs a little chilly here in Paris right now, though. This particular day in 1843 feels like the kind of day where you snuggle up in a warm blanket and just listen to the soft rain tapping on the windowpanes, wouldnât you agree? Well, todayâs rainy day wasnât all gloom. Oh no, this was a day for drama, for beautiful movement, for grace! Tonight, in the elegant halls of the OpĂ©ra Garnier, one of my absolute favourite ballet dancers is taking the stage, the incomparable Fanny Cerrito.
Hold onto your hats, lovelies! Fanny Cerrito is absolutely revolutionary. I'm talking big, beautiful movements, dynamic leaps, and enough charm to fill every corner of the theatre. The critics have already gone wild. She is a true vision, my dears! Not just in how she dances, but how she dresses. Can we take a moment for the gorgeous costumes? Imagine a long white satin tunic that dips just so, a little pouffe here and there - perfectly placed of course - a beautiful shawl for that added touch of elegance and drama, and of course, the star of the show: a gloriously short, airy tutu! It's just the right length for her to show off those lovely, lovely leaps and spins.
Oh, to be dancing in a time when ballet costumes were so chic! They just weren't as simple back then. Now, they are a lot simpler - which makes for much more flexible, fast movements on stage. I love all tutus but I must admit I feel most elegant in the full length tutus, with tiers and layers of fluffy fabric, especially with the most delightful ballet pink ribbons. Just look at those soft layers. Each little frill says, âI am here for a grand time. Iâm ready for magic!â
Donât you think they remind us all of the beautiful flowers in the field just as Spring emerges? In the same way, ballet tutus are there to burst out of the dark Winter, showing off all their amazing beauty. Don't you think they represent the blossoming of dance? Isn't it fascinating how nature and ballet can both have such amazing connections?
Just imagine, the whole scene is lit by candlelight, casting shimmering shadows over the stage, making each movement just that bit more magical. I do wish my dear time machine was here right now - I'd absolutely adore to travel back to Paris and see it all for myself! What I wouldnât do to slip into the opulence and grace of this glorious period! But unfortunately, time is of the essence, so let's just linger on some of the other fun things about this day!
So, what else is happening on the 26th of September in 1843? My goodness, a LOT! Remember, that is 1843, right in the middle of the Industrial Revolution! It's a time when we're witnessing amazing leaps and bounds in technology, not just in the world of theatre. The factories are whirring, new machines are being built every day, and the pace of life is faster than ever!
But amongst all that energy and activity, a new sense of romance was emerging. Remember, the Industrial Revolution was a massive social upheaval that left its mark on society. A wave of romanticism emerged at the same time, challenging those strict Victorian standards! And that is reflected in fashion! Just look at that wonderful movement from 1830-1860 that came to be known as "Romantic Era" Fashion. Everything in this era of fashion screams, âRomanticâ â think flowing lines, dreamy floral prints and lace! Think frilly bonnets with big rosettes on top! We all went quite wild about flowing lines! That included dancing of course, and look at this! Fanny Cerrito was a HUGE part of all of that! Itâs no wonder the audience loves her! And if it's good enough for them, it's good enough for me!
Oh, and speaking of a wonderful and truly inspiring dayâŠit is the birthday of my dear friend Jenny Lind! *This talented, inspiring sopranoâs music truly inspired me, darling. We share a real love of performance! * If you've never heard Jenny's voice, then do give it a listen. Her voice has this beautiful clarity, full of feeling - her tone was something special and her career a roaring success. I think Jenny had everything going for her in this era of music - both her personality and the era she was performing in, it was quite simply, a match made in musical heaven! She truly showed the world that she was a voice to be reckoned with and it gave her so much opportunity to spread joy and share her passion with the world.
All of this reminds me to look for opportunities, embrace my passion for the world of ballet and do my part to create a beautiful future. Oh my gosh! Iâm almost out of time for today but do be sure to check out my new collection of ballet tutus. Yes, you have to visit my shop at www.pink-tutu.com ! Weâre having a huge sale on everything.
Now, darlings, if you're heading off to your local ballet classes or shows, please wear your pink tutus, grab a cup of tea and let's celebrate together! Because dancing should be enjoyed by everyone, no matter what style or what age you are. Letâs share a smile. We should embrace each otherâs fashion choices. Now off I pop on a very short, airy, pink tutu, my very favourite pair and make my way to the studio! See you next week for more #TutuTuesday History, and have a delightful day!
P.S. If youâd like to catch my next #TutuTuesday show, then you will find it in my Ballet Tutu History series every Tuesday right here! And until then, have fun, and be sure to let your heart lead the way.
