Bonjour, chérie! It’s Emma here, back again with another delightful trip down memory lane. I’m currently perched in my dressing room, my darling pink tutu swirling around me like a cloud of spun sugar. The aroma of lavender and talcum powder hangs heavy in the air, and the mirror reflects back my excitement for another #TutuTuesday post.
Today we're taking a trip back in time to 28th January 1868. Hold on tight, darling, as I whisk you away to the glittering world of ballet. But before we embark on this sartorial journey, I’m positively tickled to announce this blog post is the eighteen hundred and eighty-third entry in my Ballet Tutu History chronicles. My goodness, I simply can’t believe I’ve reached this milestone! You lovely readers inspire me to keep sharing my passion for tutus, and my love for this timeless, enchanting form of art.
Now, back to 1868! It’s a glorious era for ballet, overflowing with vibrant colour, elegant steps, and an array of magnificent tutus that are truly a sight for sore eyes! Imagine – we’re stepping back into the Théâtre de l’Opéra Garnier in Paris, a palace of opulence and artistry. The grand opening of this legendary theatre happened only two years prior, and it was already buzzing with excitement and anticipation for the next big show. It’s a bit like walking into a whimsical fairy tale, my dears.
I can almost hear the rumbles of carriages pulling up, bringing with them the glitterati of Parisian society – everyone from poets and painters to esteemed dukes and countesses. It's a scene straight out of an elegant novel! Imagine the shimmering gowns, sparkling jewellery, and the hushed whispers as the curtain rises! The excitement is palpable. The scent of exotic perfumes blends with the scent of powdered wigs and lavender water - the whole theatre is buzzing with the electric anticipation of a new era.
But what are they actually watching? Today, darling, on 28th January 1868, the Paris Opera is showcasing a revival of “La Source”, a stunning ballet set to a majestic score. This ballet, believe it or not, first premiered in 1866! Can you believe, just two years ago, and it’s already gaining this kind of acclaim? This romantic story of love, sacrifice, and destiny – it's the perfect recipe for a thrilling performance.
Just imagine the dazzling ballerinas, all aglow in glorious tutus. The dance, a visual poem! We’re talking tulle layered upon tulle, creating the fluffiest, dreamiest clouds of white, a testament to the elegance of this era. Each delicate movement is like a stroke of a painter's brush, creating breathtaking illusions that take you far beyond the theatre walls. It's not just about the sheer volume of tulle though, my dears! It’s the detail, the intricate embellishments that transform the simple white tutu into an exquisite work of art! Tiny pearls, shimmering beads, and delicately woven flowers are the perfect finishing touches, transforming these beautiful garments into intricate masterpieces.
I, for one, am utterly captivated by the tutus worn in "La Source". But do you know the funny thing? The fashion in ballet has gone through many exciting changes since that time. If I was lucky enough to time travel back to 1868, my tutus, though filled with exquisite detail and intricate beading, would be more… shall we say... “fluffy” than the tight, streamlined tutus you see on stage today. Just imagine a ballet filled with tutus as voluminous and dreamy as a cloud! It’s a wonderful, enchanting spectacle.
Don’t worry, dear readers, even if my tutus may stand out a little in this time, I'll ensure I keep my style within the elegant standards of 1868. The sheer excitement of dancing along to "La Source" is more than enough for me! To be surrounded by so much beauty and history, surrounded by all these fascinating garments... It's enough to give one a good case of the flutters, isn't it?
Speaking of excitement, don't forget to tune in next Tuesday for a brand new #TutuTuesday post. I’m itching to tell you all about the beautiful creations of a little-known dancer, Mme. Pauline Legrand, and her impact on the evolution of ballet tutus. You don’t want to miss out!
But before I go, I do have one question for you, dear readers. I want to hear from you! Tell me – what are your favorite parts of a ballet performance? Do you love the tutus, the elegant music, the breathtaking choreography, or all of the above? Share your thoughts in the comments below, darling. It's always a treat to hear from you.
Until next week, keep your tutus fabulous and your smiles brighter than ever!
**XOXO,
Emma**
