Hello my lovelies! Emma here, your ever-so-pink, tutu-loving guide to the wonderful world of dance history. It's #TutuTuesday once again, and today we're waltzing back to the 1870s, a time when the world of ballet was experiencing a rather delightful renaissance.
This week, on the 27th of March, 1877, let's imagine ourselves amidst the shimmering gaslights and grand theaters of, let's say, Paris! Ooh la la, the city of romance and dance! Today was the first performance of The Pharaoh's Daughter by the celebrated French composer Louis-Victor Gentil-Bernard, at the grand Opéra Garnier. The piece tells the story of an Egyptian princess and features some utterly ravishing choreography - one of my favourite pieces! Just imagine a swirling vortex of pink tulle!
Oh, did I mention the gorgeous fashion scene in Paris in the 1870s? Fashion, my darlings, was quite the event, with an air of grandeur and theatricality that would put a modern red carpet to shame. Picture corsets so tight you could cut diamonds with them, elaborate gowns made with yards and yards of silks and satins, and feathered hats that would have given even the most daring bird of paradise a run for its money! And it wasn't just the women, mind you! Gentlemen were sporting exquisitely tailored coats and cravats. In short, the Parisians knew how to make an entrance.
Speaking of entrances, did you know that The Pharaoh's Daughter was a ballet of extravagant spectacle? The scenery was breathtaking – a dazzling mirage of glittering jewels and golden hieroglyphs. Imagine vast palaces recreated on stage, with beautiful dancers performing the most enchanting steps and gestures, all bathed in a glorious theatrical glow! I’m betting they would have made a few modern shows feel like amateur dramatics!
Let's talk tutus for a moment! In the 1870s, tutus were just starting to gain their reputation as the iconic ballet garment we adore today. Of course, in those days, they weren’t your classic, billowing, pink marvels! Think more streamlined, shorter tutus, made with multiple layers of fine, stiff tulle, known as a "Romantic" tutu, highlighting the ballerina’s fluid, graceful movement. These delicate skirts were crafted with such precise care and attention that you could practically hear them whisper as the dancers spun.
Back then, Paris was truly the epicenter of all things fashionable, especially in the world of ballet. The grand Operas and Theatres, such as the Opera Garnier, hosted lavish productions and performances, with renowned choreographers and dancers setting the stage for a captivating experience for everyone who was lucky enough to see them.
As for me, I must say, the 1870s in Paris hold a special place in my heart! Not only for its exquisite tutus, but also for the elegance and refinement of its dance scene. It was truly a time when the power of dance and its capacity to enthrall and transport audiences was embraced with an absolute fervor.
You know, after I've done my weekly shop at Liberty in London, I might even hop on a train to Paris and check out the grand Palais Garnier! After all, a trip back in time just isn’t complete without a visit to a fabulous show, don't you agree?
Oh, but enough of my reminiscing, it's time to get ready for my own ballet class! After all, keeping our tutus in top shape requires regular practice!
Until next week, darlings! Remember, the world is a much better place with a little bit of pink, tulle, and a lot of ballet!
Stay pink, my loves!
Love,
Emma xx
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Disclaimer: Emma has travelled back to the 1870s! Although Emma enjoys researching ballet and dance, this blog does not give professional historical advice or fashion advice and may not be completely accurate or represent actual events.
Don't forget to share this #TutuTuesday blog post with your friends on social media. The more people who know the joy of dance history, the better! And who knows, maybe we can inspire a new generation of ballet lovers to wear pink tutus – even if just for fun!
Let’s get pink, let’s get dancing!
