Hello, darlings! Emma here, your pink tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed time traveller, ready to whisk you back to the enchanting world of ballet history, for another fabulous #TutuTuesday!
This week, my trusty time machine has deposited me right in the middle of March, 1858. Can you believe it? Over 160 years ago, but the magic of dance never fades, does it? Now, before we dive into the historical bits, just picture me - in a perfectly pink tutu, swirling through the grand salons of Paris! Imagine the gasps of admiration from the stylish Parisians, the flutter of feathers on exquisite bonnets! Ah, I simply adore the fashions of the era. It's like a time capsule of elegance.
Today, the 23rd of March, we celebrate the birthday of a fascinating figure: Marie Taglioni. A ballerina whose name is synonymous with ethereal grace. Now, the beauty of the 19th century is that these ballerinas were truly the stars, the icons of their day. They weren't just dancers, they were artists and fashionistas all rolled into one! Imagine wearing a costume so beautifully designed that it becomes legendary. Isn't that incredible?
And talking about iconic, have you seen those tutus from this era? Let me tell you, my darlings, those weren't your average frilly things. They were intricate, detailed affairs made with fine netting and elaborate trimmings, often featuring multiple layers and lavish decorations. Imagine the effort it must have taken to create such delicate masterpieces! And they are still considered to be the foundation of the classic tutu design that we all know and love.
Speaking of foundations, I simply must talk about the invention of tulle. Can you believe we owe the gorgeousness of the tutu to a revolutionary new fabric?! That's right, before 1836, it simply didn't exist. Think of all those dainty and lovely ballets that wouldn't have been the same without the lightweight, flowing quality of tulle. This revolutionary fabric truly changed the face of ballet costume design, allowing for much more ethereal and graceful movements.
But what would a trip through time be without a little dose of local history?
Today's date, March 23rd, marks a poignant anniversary. Just three years ago, on this very day, the tragic news reached England that a devastating fire had ravaged a theatre in Derby, claiming many lives. My heart goes out to all those affected by this heartbreaking event. A reminder that life is fragile and beauty ephemeral.
Even though a great many years have passed, it's inspiring to see the unwavering spirit of the human spirit. Dance thrives and continues to amaze and delight. Remember, darling, there's so much to celebrate when it comes to the history of ballet and its lovely tutus. From its dramatic past to the exhilarating present, let's keep the passion for dance alive and kicking!
But now, I must make haste, my dear time travelling companions. There's so much more to see and explore, especially here in this captivating city of Paris! Just think, we might stumble upon the legendary Taglioni herself, performing for a captivated audience! Can you imagine?
I shall continue my exciting journey through the history of the ballet tutu in next week's blog, but for now, why not try slipping into a tutu for some afternoon fun, darlings? There's a delightful charm to swirling around in a tutu, even in the heart of Derbyshire, where I call home. And remember, the key to happiness is not to be afraid of the whimsy that lies within.
Don't forget to visit my website, www.pink-tutu.com, and let me know your thoughts. Do you dream of time travelling? And what are your favourite ballet moments?
Until next #TutuTuesday,
Yours truly,
Emma xx
