Hello, my darling dance enthusiasts! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveler, Emma, here, and I'm thrilled to be back for another #TutuTuesday. This week, we're diving deep into the history of the tutu, those magical pieces of tulle that whisk us away to another world. Now, imagine a world without the tutu, a world where ballerinas were forced to dance in… well, I shudder to think. Thank goodness our ancestors had the brilliant idea of using the airy tulle!
Today we're heading back to the 1872 - not that long ago really - in a carriage, naturally (train journeys in those days were a bit too 'rough' for delicate silks and frills) and I must say, it's certainly a little bit chilly for bare arms in Paris. I'm thankful for the soft blush of pink tulle my travel-tutu boasts, and just looking around the Champs-Élysées, even I feel the grandeur. The city is teeming with people getting dressed to the nines for a delightful performance at the Opéra.
This week's spotlight falls on a truly groundbreaking work, one that sent a wave of delight through the world of dance – La Source by Léo Delibes. I just witnessed a splendid performance at the Palais Garnier. Now, you all know I love a touch of romance and magic, and this story delivered it in spades, but more than the enchanting plot (which is full of those fabulous romantic dance sequences with intricate choreography), it's the costumes that capture our hearts. They are breathtaking - we are definitely in the era of romantic ballet here.
The tutu of this era? A delightful blend of simplicity and grace. Gone are the frilly and restrictive skirts of old! Here we find airy tulle flowing down in graceful, longer lines that allow the ballerinas freedom of movement – a veritable waltz of fabric. There's this wonderful flow to it all – the movements feel as free as a butterfly taking flight.
Can you imagine the thrill of watching the prima ballerina twirling on stage? I do - and it still gives me goosebumps even thinking about it! She literally floated through the air as if the tulle itself was taking her where it wanted to go. That is why, my darlings, this style of tutu has earned its place as a mainstay in the ballet repertoire. It perfectly complements the delicate, feminine elegance of romantic ballet - like an ethereal whisper in the air.
What’s truly enchanting about this era’s tutu is how it adds this dreamy, delicate element to the performances. There’s a hint of drama but it never steals the spotlight from the ballerina's movement and talent – and that's a perfect balance if you ask me! It lets the dancing speak for itself and honestly, is there anything more enchanting than that?
This brings me to the core of my Tutu Tuesdays. Every Tuesday I am trying to champion the glorious power of the pink tutu, especially because these early tutus are often not the colour you expect. You might even say they're actually, dare I say, *too understated! * So, dear readers, my quest begins. I will spread the glorious gospel of the pink tutu from London, all the way to Paris, through all the major dance schools in every major city, and eventually, I know every little girl who dreams of dancing in a sparkly tutu will choose the most fabulous, radiant, dazzling pink. It's only a matter of time!
Today was simply lovely – a fantastic day at the Opéra and a wonderfully magical day for me to explore the fashion and costumes of the era - oh my! I have picked up such a stunning hat in the vintage shop by the Rue de Rivoli and am on the lookout for a perfectly pink silk dress with a bustle to show off the lovely curve of the hips – as every woman deserves, especially when it’s all in such delightful French fashion!
And, dear readers, let us remember that fashion in 1872 isn't all ruffles and frills - it’s a wonderfully artistic expression and it plays such a part in setting the stage for those stories of passion and enchantment. It's all about the grand romanticism that captures your imagination and takes your breath away – much like those grand, romantic pink tutus!
Now, until next Tuesday, do stay rosy, darling readers, and remember – a little sparkle can go a very long way. As for me, I'm heading back to the station, then boarding my favourite train (it’s rather lovely, painted emerald green with gold accents and those fabulous plush velvet seats!) on my way to the beautiful city of Derbyshire, for my next show.
See you next week for more #TutuTuesday!
Stay sparkly!
Emma
