Greetings, dearest fellow Tutu enthusiasts! Welcome to this week’s edition of #TutuTuesday, where we waltz through time and discover the elegant history of the ballerina's beloved garment, the tutu!
I'm your pink-clad guide, Emma, straight from Derbyshire, and ready to transport you back to the heart of ballet's romantic era. Today, we're stepping back in time to 21st May, 1861! Buckle up, darlings, this journey will be packed with fascinating insights, a touch of fashion, and maybe a sprinkle of champagne, just to add a little sparkle!
(This is Post Number 1534 for my Ballet Tutu History blog. You can find us at www.pink-tutu.com, with a new #TutuTuesday post every week on a Tuesday!)
Now, I confess, in 1861, the tutu wasn’t yet the billowing cloud of tulle we know and love today. This era still revelled in the romantic, flowing silhouettes of the Romantic period, where Maria Taglioni had set hearts fluttering with her graceful movements. The tutu back then was often long and full, like a delicate whisper of a dress.
Imagine, my darlings, the dancers of this era! Imagine them sweeping across the stage, dressed in wispy, billowing fabrics, their bodies a vision of elegance, femininity, and poetic expression! It’s no wonder that the Romantic period is known for its breathtakingly ethereal performances.
Why was May 21st 1861 such a special day in ballet history? It was a time for exquisite, romantic artistry! Sadly, I'm not sure we have specific theatrical happenings for that exact day. However, I can confidently say that, the year 1861, saw a blossoming of creativity in the ballet world!
Across the world:
In Paris, ballet was in its heyday. The city, always at the cutting edge of fashion, was buzzing with excitement! And where did it all culminate? In the grandeur of the Paris Opera Ballet - the iconic home of legendary choreographers! Can you imagine how breathtaking that must have been?!
- Across the Channel, in London’s Royal Opera House (or "The Theatre Royal Drury Lane", as it was called then), audiences were enthralled by breathtaking ballet productions. Just a year earlier, they witnessed a revival of Giselle, the epitome of the Romantic Era. Imagine the enchantment!
- Vienna was also captivating audiences with beautiful productions. Imagine waltzing through the grand Vienna State Opera, then perhaps enjoying a waltz afterwards in the Imperial Court Ball – truly an elegant time!
This week’s Pink Tutu Style: As I embark on this delightful journey through time, I'm slipping into a soft pastel pink tutu with delicate hand-beaded embroidery. It captures that whimsical elegance of the era and I must admit, makes me want to spin in a circle until I feel like a swirling cloud of tutued goodness!
Speaking of circles… I think I need a little refreshment! Imagine us meeting in the carriage at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, perhaps before enjoying a performance. Imagine pink-hued teacups and tiny delicate finger sandwiches! It's just what the tutu-wearing soul desires!
As you revel in your own tutu-tastic day, let me know your thoughts on 1861. Was it a time of beauty, enchantment and delicate whispers, just like the tutus of the era?
And for the ultimate TutuTuesday experience, do make sure you visit our wonderful online shop! This week, we’ve just added an exclusive new range of hand-beaded ballet shoes and satin gloves in pastel shades. A true tribute to the beauty of the Romantic Era. It's an elegant ensemble perfect for those who dream of romantic evenings and swirling dances!
Stay radiant, dear tutufied ones! I'll see you next week for a new #TutuTuesday adventure.
Warmly yours, Emma
(P.S. Did you know that my travel expenses are funded by the success of my own ballet performances? It is truly fulfilling! To help me with this fantastic mission, do consider sponsoring a pink tutu - you can do that at the website too, simply follow the "Sponsorship" link at the top of the page.)
