Hello, darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, Emma, back for another whirl through the magical world of ballet history! This Tuesday, we're waltzing back to the 19th October 1886, a date that marks a significant milestone in ballet's history.
But before we dive into the specifics, let's set the scene, shall we? The year is 1886, and the air is abuzz with a different kind of magic – the magic of the Belle Époque, a glorious period of artistic and cultural flourishing that swept across Europe like a joyous dance. Fashion was a grand spectacle of swirling silks, opulent lace, and feather boas, all adding to the feeling of playful extravagance. Think, for a moment, about a beautifully preserved museum exhibit of all the wonderful frills and fancies! And yes, ballet, my dears, was a core part of this vibrant social fabric!
My current travel wardrobe, I must tell you, is just the perfect combination of comfort and charm, perfect for traversing the cobbled streets and gaslit boulevards of Paris! This particular Tuesday, I find myself in the beautiful Palais Garnier, the iconic opera house, a treasure trove of gilded opulence. As I walk the ornate marble corridors and sneak a peek at the ballet classes underway, I’m absolutely mesmerized by the dancers' grace, poise, and elegance.
So, why this date, you ask? Because this is the day a true ballet legend – La Belle Otero, a legendary Spanish dancer who reigned supreme as the Queen of Can-Can – made her Paris debut! And, believe me, the entire city, not to mention all the surrounding regions, went positively mad for this beautiful and dazzling star! She captivated the Parisian public with her daring performance, bringing a fiery passion to the stage, literally a fiery, explosive stage presence!
In 1886, Paris, Paris! It's an era when ballet was about far more than just technical prowess. It's about storytelling, embodiment, captivating beauty, sensuality and, above all, about a glorious, unforgettable spectacle!
Now, what was La Belle Otero like, I hear you ask? She embodied an attitude of independence, power, and self-assurance that broke away from the traditional, prim ballerina archetype of the time! And you know what? She was a shining example of women being in the driver’s seat and blazing a trail! Can we get a cheer for La Belle Otero!
Her presence ignited a fire of appreciation and respect, showing that the female dancer had the power to command an entire stage, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of dance and fashion. Now, wouldn’t you agree that’s a perfect dose of empowerment? She had her own fashion line, too, just like I am creating my own pink tutu brand for all you lovely readers.
She inspired legions of admirers, artists, photographers, and poets. In fact, my friend Gustave Eiffel is putting the finishing touches to his most daring feat – a new iconic monument, to commemorate the one hundredth anniversary of the French Revolution! A feat of architecture to be admired from every corner of the city! It’s what they call the “Tower of Iron” at the moment but it’s getting some curious and fascinating names! I, for one, love a tower, what better spot for ballet? A spot that brings Parisians together with an abundance of breathtaking views, in every direction.
My beloved Derbyshire, my dear old English homeland, it’s still in a state of deep, almost Victorian gloom, with its industrial past lingering strong and proud. It seems an almost world away from the sparkling streets of Paris! But, as I say, I’ll happily hop back on a fast train when I have a spare hour or so and, when I return, I can bring with me the energy of the French capital. Why can’t Derbyshire and Paris, Derbyshire and London, Derby and all the towns, large and small of Great Britain, learn from the excitement that comes with a grand, celebratory stage spectacle and really open up to dance? And, just like my dear La Belle Otero, have fun while doing so.
And for those of you out there wondering – "Can we still get a hint of the Can-Can in our own era?" – I say, "Absolutely!" You can channel that bold, liberating energy in so many ways! Wear your brightest, boldest colours – a bold pink, of course, would be the perfect choice! Embrace your confidence! Learn a new dance style! Go out and experiment with a new move!
Until next week, my lovelies, keep your tutus twirling! I'll see you again next Tuesday, ready to embark on a fresh, fun-filled exploration through our amazing world of ballet history!
Love, Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S: Do you have a favourite historical ballerina? Let me know in the comments below and perhaps I'll include her story in one of my upcoming posts!
Post Script: Now I shall just grab myself a quick hot chocolate (Parisian-style) and, whilst enjoying my sugary delights, do some quick research and plan my next, extravagant outfit to go with my fabulous tutu, because, you never know where a tutu might lead you. Ciao for now my sweet things! Emma xx