Hello my darling dears! Welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com, your one-stop shop for all things tutu-rific! Today, Iâm back with another #TutuTuesday adventure, whisking us back in time to 16th November, 1875, and the captivating world of the ballet tutu!
You know I adore travelling back in time, hopping on the train, and watching those mesmerising, whirling dancers perform! This week, Iâve chosen a very special date â the very same day, 147 years ago, when the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden hosted a beautiful ballet by the legendary choreographer, Marius Petipa. It's amazing to think about the connection, isnât it? It was almost like destiny brought me here to experience it for myself!
Todayâs blog post is number 2290, and this week weâre travelling all the way to the heart of London, darling. Covent Garden. My favourite place to go for the latest dance trends and styles. That evening, Covent Garden, which was once known as âThe Royal Theatre,â buzzed with anticipation. You see, 1875, darling, was a year of groundbreaking performances.
The audience sat with bated breath, all eyes glued to the stage. This particular performance wasnât just a simple, run-of-the-mill ballet, oh no. It was the debut of the stunning âLa Esmeralda,â with an absolute darling, Madame Carlotta Zambelli in the lead role. She truly captured the spirit of the rebellious gypsy girl with such passion, grace, and beauty. I found it all rather enchanting, my darlings!
Peeking behind the Scenes
So, you may be thinking, what were the ballerinas wearing during this magical performance? Let me tell you. Picture it. Soft billowing tutus, made of silk tulle, fluttering around their ankles â just the sort of ethereal grace I adore. It was the beginning of the tutu we see today.
We have to remember, my lovelies, the tutus back in 1875 werenât all perfectly pristine like they are today. Those iconic âwhirlwindâ styles, were yet to emerge. You wouldn't believe the time and effort it takes to create those perfect tiers, like something out of a fairytale! I find myself utterly spellbound every time! The tutus of that time were just the perfect blend of softness and grandeur, and a truly charming nod to the graceful, Romantic era, where it all began.
Just like in all aspects of fashion, there were a multitude of colours. Although I may prefer a lovely shade of pink myself, you couldnât possibly imagine how vibrant these colourful tutus were! They made an electrifying statement on the stage! Just picture rich reds, deep emeralds, the delicate hue of violets⌠it truly brought the ballet stories to life! I am totally and utterly mesmerized by the idea.
The dancers would wear long gloves that were often lace edged and these beautiful bodices, you just couldnât go wrong with. It was truly all about capturing those dramatic lines that truly highlight the grace and femininity of ballet.
And What about the Men?
You may be thinking, "Emma, what about the men? Did they get to wear tutus too?â
Of course, my darling! The men did wear tutus. They werenât as flowing as the ladies' tutus though, I must confess. The men would often don tutus of varying lengths - the very elegant knee-length to a slightly more comfortable calf-length. It was all about expressing strength and masculinity. Think bold red, deep blacks, and, of course, a whole palette of earthy browns. It added such a perfect counterpoint to the ballerinaâs delicate beauty. There were no bright pinks for these gentleman, not back then anyway. I might have to look at a change to that little rule, just maybe...
But tutus didnât always have to be for performance. Back in those days, they weren't limited to the stage! They were making waves, like me darling, at balls and other gatherings! Oh, imagine my delight! My lovely grandmother would regale me with tales of women in full tulle attire. Oh my. It really was all about showing off the latest style and fashion trends, don't you agree?
So you see, my dears, that even in those historical days, tutus held a captivating allure. And so, if you find yourself in Covent Garden one evening, try and take in a show at the theatre. The performance may not be âLa Esmeraldaâ with that divine Zambelli, but you might get to see a modern adaptation. It may have some wonderful tutu-wearing women just like the ladies in the 19th Century. Remember, it all starts with the tutu, and from that little glimpse, you never know what amazing stories you can find within your own heart.
Until next time, dear darlings! Have a magnificent week filled with pink and all things tutu-tastic!
Emma xx
