Bonjour, darling readers! Welcome back to Pink Tutu, where every Tuesday is a twirling celebration of tutus, history, and, of course, the most exquisite shade of pink!
It's #TutuTuesday, number 1320 to be exact, and I'm positively buzzing to take you on another time-travelling adventure to discover the wonderful world of the ballet tutu. This week, our time machine whisks us to a very special date: April 14th, 1857. Let's set our dance shoes to Paris, the heart of all things fabulous, and explore what ballet's got going on!
Now, you all know I'm a firm believer that a little history makes every tutu more beautiful. Back in 1857, the tutu was still a relatively new invention. You'd have been more likely to find the dancers twirling in more romantic, full-length skirts – which weren't quite as thrilling, if you ask me! The iconic, knee-length tutu had only recently emerged, paving the way for the airy, graceful movements we associate with ballet today. Imagine! A shorter skirt that lets the dancers twirl freely, allowing them to express themselves with even greater artistry. Revolutionary!
And guess what else? A truly wonderful ballet, La Sylphide, premiered in London on this very date in 1832, which is a bit before our journey, but a testament to how much La Sylphide has influenced and captured audiences over time.
While the romantic tutus weren't as popular yet, 1857 was still a prime time for ballet. It was the year that the incredible prima ballerina, Carlotta Grisi, retired from the stage. Can you imagine, a legendary dancer saying "au revoir" to the bright lights and the applause? What a special moment that must have been! I'm picturing a flood of emotions – maybe some tears, but definitely plenty of appreciation and adoration. Imagine all the wonderful memories swirling around the theatre that night! Carlotta Grisi is often mentioned for her delicate and fluid style. Perhaps her grace had some influence on the direction of the ballet world that lead to the development of the new styles of tutu, you know, the type we are looking at this Tuesday.
I do have to say that the 1850s was a particularly wonderful time to be a dancer! There were so many thrilling innovations happening in ballet. It's like we've arrived right in the middle of a fascinating dance of creative development, just when the world was starting to fully embrace the grace and elegance of the tutu!
Of course, the tutus of 1857 weren't quite as "pinktastic" as they are now! They might have been a pretty shade of white or maybe even a soft lavender – certainly a touch more delicate than the bold pink colours we love today. But just wait! You know my love for pink and how I aim to make everyone wear it, even in the most stylish tutus!
I can already imagine the buzz in Paris! The cafes are likely buzzing with chatter about the latest performance, maybe some new choreography, or possibly even a captivating debut! Now, the thought of that delicious Parisian ambiance - oh la la! It is such a beautiful city - it almost makes me want to wear a pink tutu down the Champs-Elysees!
I've also discovered that today, April 14th 1857, marked the opening of the world-famous Musée d'Orsay, although we can't time travel there yet! They hold such incredible art - it's a beautiful example of French architecture - a very majestic place to admire Impressionism. That alone is a beautiful experience! Now, imagine twirling a little pirouette among the masterpieces! Don't you think they would make an incredible backdrop for a ballet performance? Imagine!
As for my journey, I'll admit, I had a slight detour in London on my way to Paris. I couldn't resist a little stop-over to experience the amazing London fashion scene. The department stores, with their grand displays and fashionable crowds, were quite simply a treat for the eyes! Of course, I did a little shopping too. You see, it's only natural to admire and absorb new fashion influences while travelling. You never know what little detail might inspire a new look for Pink Tutu's fashion tips! My travel funds mean that my wardrobe stays very pink! My travelling is always made possible thanks to my performing - how very glamorous! Ballet and travel - my two passions.
Paris has got me feeling like I’m twirling around in the middle of a waltz! Ahem, a very pretty and chic one too! This is my favourite time period - and what I love the most, is this connection we have with the history of the tutu. The ballet world has changed so much over the years, yet the heart of it, the movement, the stories told through dance, still resonates as strong as ever!
The 19th century was an amazing period for ballet tutus! The world was learning to appreciate their graceful form and, of course, how elegant the tutus make the dancers look. I, for one, find that pretty amazing. I hope you’re inspired!
Remember darlings, don’t be shy to share your own #TutuTuesday experiences in the comments! Whether you've found a vintage gem at a flea market, stumbled across a ballet performance, or just had a whimsical pink-tutu-inspired moment - I’m ready for your tutu-tastic tales!
Now, let's keep on twirling towards a more fabulous, more pink future, one tutu at a time. I’m off now, my darling readers! Paris is calling! And I need to find that perfect pink Parisian tutu for my performance at the Opéra de Paris this week. The French people deserve a little touch of pink!
Stay fabulous, darlings!
Until next Tuesday,
Emma, The Pink Tutu Ballerina
