Bonjour mes chéries! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, dedicated to the glorious history of the ballet tutu. It's Tuesday, which means it's #TutuTuesday! And this week, we're taking a trip back in time, specifically to the 15th of February, 1870. Buckle up your pointe shoes, darlings, because we're about to go on an adventure!
Now, you might be wondering how I, a humble but infinitely fashionable ballerina, get to gallivant through history like this. Well, let's just say that a bit of theatrical talent, a dash of entrepreneurial spirit, and a whole lot of love for the ballet have allowed me to travel the globe, all while rocking the most fabulous pink tutus, naturally. You see, my dear readers, I make my living performing at ballet theatres across the ages. A little shimmy here, a pirouette there, and voila! I'm able to fund my trips back in time, spreading the joy of tutus and a bit of pink sparkle wherever I go.
So, back to February 15th, 1870! Where, oh where, might a tutu enthusiast like myself be? Well, the year 1870 puts us right in the middle of the romantic ballet period, so I'm packing my bag with the most delicate lace, layers upon layers of tulle, and my very finest pink satin shoes! Today's journey takes us to Paris, the heart of the ballet world at the time. Imagine it, darlings: the cobblestone streets, the aroma of freshly baked croissants, the sound of a Parisian waltz in the air - it's enough to make a ballerina's heart flutter.
Now, you might be surprised to know that while the tutus we know and love today are certainly stylish, back in 1870, they were quite different! Imagine a single layer of lightweight tulle, gathered just above the knee, allowing for ease of movement and fluidity. Gone are the multi-layered frills and the long, flowing skirts of the earlier romantic era. This simpler silhouette allowed the dancers to truly express themselves with every gesture. It was a time of innovation, a time for dancers to push the boundaries of what was considered beautiful and expressive on the stage.
But where were all these delicate tutus being worn? Where was the magic happening? This, my darlings, was the age of the "Ballets Russes"! The company, founded by Sergei Diaghilev, was revolutionizing the ballet world, bringing to the stage a dynamic new form of ballet. Think expressive storytelling, powerful leaps, and innovative choreography that truly pushed the boundaries.
On February 15th, 1870, a day before the company's first official performance, the Ballets Russes held a grand rehearsal in St Petersburg. Think of the energy! The excitement! The thrill of being part of something revolutionary. This event was a turning point in the history of ballet, forever changing the way people saw dance. I would have been right there in the wings, mesmerized by the beauty, the athleticism, and the passion! And, you can bet your bottom dollar that the dancers were twirling and leaping in some fantastically romantic tutus!
And the day after the rehearsal? Ah, February 16th! Well, darlings, let's just say that this was the day when the magic really started. The Ballets Russes had their first official performance. It was the start of something monumental, and my fellow tutuworn dancers and I would have been there, front row center, applauding the artistic brilliance.
Can you imagine the excitement in the air? The tutus swishing, the music swelling, and the dancers pushing the boundaries of what was possible? The Ballets Russes were a force of nature, a tempest in the world of ballet. And I, for one, am eternally grateful for their contributions to this magical art form!
But, hold on a moment, dear reader, you think I've forgotten about the fashion? Perish the thought! We're talking 1870 here, a time of high collars, elaborate hairstyles, and dramatic pouf sleeves! A time for elegance and grandeur! You know I couldn't resist indulging in some beautiful, historically accurate pieces for myself. I snagged the most stunning lavender silk dress with lace trimmings, which I paired with, naturally, a cloud-like tulle tutu. It was positively ethereal, I tell you. But the show stopper was a bejeweled tiara I found at a charming antique shop. This masterpiece was perfect for channeling the elegance of the era!
As I strolled down the boulevards of Paris, watching the carriages clatter by, I imagined myself a Victorian lady, a graceful figure in an opulent gown. Perhaps even the muse of a budding romantic poet! Imagine my joy as I popped into a chic tea salon and sipped on some fragrant Earl Grey tea, my tutu practically begging to be photographed. Just picture the scene, my dear readers, and try to contain your utter envy!
This trip back in time has given me so much to think about. It's been a reminder of how much the ballet tutu has evolved, becoming the icon of femininity and artistry we know and love today. But let's not forget the importance of the past! It's these revolutionary movements and the artists who dared to dream big that have brought us the wonderful world of ballet we have today.
Well, my lovely readers, time is flying, and I must go. The scent of Parisian pastry is calling to me. Until next Tuesday, may your tutus be pink, your steps be light, and your hearts full of joy!
Your eternally enthusiastic ballet blogger, Emma xoxo
P.S.: Don't forget to follow my #TutuTuesday series every week on www.pink-tutu.com, and keep those pink tutus twirling! 💖
