Welcome back, my dearest tutu-loving friends! It’s Tuesday again, which means it’s time for another trip into the fabulous world of ballet tutu history. I’m your time-traveling ballerina, Emma, and I’m absolutely thrilled to be sharing my passion for pink tutus and all things ballet with you.
This week, we’re venturing to November 24th, 1874 – a date brimming with history and a day where the tutu really started to come into its own!
My time-travel outfit for today? Well, of course, it's a gorgeous pink tutu! I'm all about that pretty-in-pink life! I love how tutus can make me feel like I'm floating, like a princess on stage. Today's ensemble features a whimsical tulle skirt, soft lace trimmings, and a delicate satin ribbon that dances with every pirouette. The colour? The softest shade of blush imaginable - a colour that radiates femininity and elegance, just like ballet itself!
But before we talk tutus, let's take a peek at what’s going on in the world on this fine November day.
The World in 1874: A Whirl of Progress
The year 1874 is an exciting one. While the world was undergoing a lot of social and political change, ballet was absolutely thriving!
We are in the heart of the Romantic era, and imagine how glamorous and exhilarating it must have been to attend the Paris Opera or the Imperial Ballet in Russia, witnessing some of the most celebrated dancers of the age perform their dazzling routines. The very name ‘Romantic’ brings to mind exquisite beauty, delicate elegance, and a certain enchanting grace, all characteristics beautifully embodied by the ballet dancer. And in those iconic ballet performances, what did the stars wear? Tutus!
1874: A Defining Year for Ballet Tutu Evolution
The tutus we see today owe a massive amount to the developments in dance, theatre, and costume design of the Victorian Era, and 1874 is a significant moment in that history.
You know how much I love exploring the origins of all things tutu-related. Back in 1874, there were two primary types of tutus gracing the stage: the Romantic tutu (short, and more lightweight than previous iterations, popularised by dancers like Carlotta Grisi and Fanny Cerrito) and the tutu à la page (which I personally adore for its sweeping romanticism and stunning visual effect, where it could be tiered and elaborate in the design and volume). The tutu à la page, sometimes called the "Paganini" tutu, allowed for increased movement, flexibility, and more complex routines – a visual spectacle truly befitting the growing artistry of the dance form. Think delicate layers of soft tulle, with a breathtaking display of fluidity and captivating drama as it floats through the air, making it perfect for the big, beautiful gestures of Romantic ballet.
A Tale of Two Tutus - What Happened This Day in Tutu History?
1874 is a turning point. The Romantic tutu remained immensely popular and elegant, a timeless style which is still performed in productions like 'Giselle' and 'La Sylphide'. However, it was on 24th November, 1874, that we saw a new and groundbreaking style take centre stage. It was during a performance of a one-act ballet "The Magic Mirror" at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia, that one of the greatest ballerina of her time, Marie Taglioni (yes, she’s famous for creating a style that I totally admire!) introduced her new interpretation of the tutu.
It was called "la ballerina". This creation differed from the tutu à la page with a higher waistline and a dramatically reduced volume. It allowed for greater flexibility and agility. This “ballerina” style opened new avenues for dancers to explore more challenging movements. Imagine! Greater freedom, elegance, and beauty for the dancers. What's not to love? It revolutionised ballet and remains popular to this day.
A Dream Come True: Visiting the Source of Inspiration
My time travels, powered by a magical blend of passion, hard work, and well-executed performances, often take me to places steeped in ballet history, and trust me, St Petersburg is a place that truly inspires! There's such a strong heritage of Russian ballet – the stories and history here are practically bursting to be shared! The iconic Mariinsky Theatre has always been an inspiration for me. Every ballerina has a wish list of places to perform in her career, and it’s right at the top of mine. The very thought of that theatre makes me dream of the stage, the grand opening curtains, and of course, those magical costumes – I absolutely can't wait for my very own grand debut.
But for now, I'll leave you with this: Never stop dreaming, my friends! Whether you're pirouetteing your way to class, perfecting that graceful port de bras, or just finding your inner ballerina in your everyday life, never forget the beauty and power of dance, and the beautiful stories behind the costumes that enhance our experience and express the incredible talent of those who wear them.
Don't forget to visit my website www.pink-tutu.com. You can follow my #TutuTuesday blog every week for new, time-travelling tutu-tastic posts, share your own tutu adventures, and of course, discover all things fabulous about this magnificent world of dance!
Keep twirling!
Emma
P.S: Remember to visit my website this week for an exciting competition! *It's the #PinkTutu Challenge. * Share a picture of your favourite tutu, whether it's one you've created, purchased, or just found a vintage one you love, with #PinkTutu on your social media, and you might just win a gorgeous new tutu to dance your heart out in!
