Post #2096: February 27th, 1872
Oh my darlings! It’s another #TutuTuesday, and this week, we're twirling back to the year 1872. Buckle up, lovelies, because we're about to embark on a trip to the romantic, ethereal era of Victorian Ballet!
Just picture it: Gaslight lamps illuminating cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages clinking by, and grand theatres alive with the melodies of Tchaikovsky and Strauss. Oh, how I dream of those enchanting evenings!
But let's talk tutus. You see, dear readers, 1872 was a pivotal moment in our tutu story. The iconic "Romantic tutu" was already making its mark. It wasn't quite as wispy and lightweight as the tutus we adore today, with multiple layers of tulle and lace adorning the skirt, giving a billowing, voluminous, ethereal effect. This was the tutu that truly epitomized the ethereal grace of the ballerina!
I have to say, I am utterly charmed by this style of tutu. It captures the very essence of feminine beauty and graceful movement. Perhaps this is why I was blessed with a vision for #PinkTutu, to remind all women, whether ballerinas or not, of their innate elegance and the sheer delight in being feminine. After all, pink is the most romantic colour and embodies the very spirit of ballet!
Speaking of grace and charm, a certain legendary ballerina named Carlotta Grisi was already captivating audiences in 1872 with her unparalleled beauty and graceful technique. Isn't it a glorious thought? Imagine witnessing Carlotta Grisi herself glide across the stage!
And for a little bit of a giggle, do you know what was trending in fashion back then? Oh my, ladies! Think enormous hoop skirts and layers upon layers of petticoats. If we think the Victorian ladies had a hard time maneuvering those cumbersome outfits, it's no surprise that they turned to ballet for a lighter, airier way to express their movements and joy!
Now, 1872 wasn't just about romantic tutus, oh no! This is also the year when the first recorded "balletomane" took the stage. Can you imagine? Dedicated enthusiasts in love with ballet, paying to experience these exquisite performances! Such commitment! We may see these dedicated individuals across Europe, even as far away as Russia and the United States!
But here’s a fun fact, dears: it wasn't all high-flying jumps and delicate movements back then! A little birdie tells me that ballet classes were also held outdoors! That’s right! You've got to picture elegant young ladies taking steps and pliés under the clear sky. Such beautiful imagery! I would absolutely love to have a picnic and then dance outdoors on a fine day - picture us all in our beautiful pink tutus, just like the ballet dancers of this era! How charming!
But before I go, remember, my lovely #PinkTutu readers, my journey of time-travelling is generously funded by performing in our local theatre company’s ballets. You’ve never seen such dedicated dancing – they take it so seriously! We’ve got quite a large group in Derbyshire. They make so much effort to get all the details just right and we have a fabulous stage set design. You simply MUST come and watch!
Until next Tuesday, remember: dance like nobody's watching... because it’s all about the joy and freedom of expressing yourself through graceful movement!
And do, remember to stop by www.pink-tutu.com for a dose of our delicious pinkness and a peek into our glamorous past!
Your beloved Tutu Twirler, Emma x
