Ahoy there, lovelies! Emma here, back for another fab #TutuTuesday delve into the enchanting world of the ballet tutu! Buckle up your slippers, darling, because today's journey whisks us back to 18th January, 1887, a time when gaslight illuminated London's grand opera houses, and the waltz was the dance of choice!
Now, my dear readers, 1887 was a year of utter decadence. Think swirling skirts, elaborate hairstyles, and yes, the beginnings of the very tutus we adore today! Back then, the Romantic era of ballet was in full swing, all about those airy, graceful, ethereal moves. We're talking floating, swirling, and expressing emotions through every twirl, and oh darling, the tutus were a big part of that.
Imagine, a world where tutus were almost a symbol of power! For the female dancers, these delicate creations signified their graceful, almost divine nature. They were the symbol of beauty, delicate as a flower, yet powerful as a storm. Just think about the sheer amount of skill it takes to spin, leap, and bend in these intricate, wispy gowns!
On this very date in 1887, at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, they were likely performing some of the greatest Romantic era ballets - maybe "Giselle" or "La Sylphide"! These tales of ethereal spirits, magical woods, and passionate romances were brought to life by those stunning tutus - picture them, billowing like clouds, their colours reflecting the moonlit forest! It's almost enough to make one weep, isn't it, dear?
Now, tutus back then were made from several layers of gauze or tulle, often hand-stitched by seamstresses who were absolute experts! The length varied, sometimes trailing on the floor, adding a majestic swish, and sometimes, stopping above the ankles, perfect for nimble pirouettes! And the colour, darlings! Imagine swathes of pale pink, sky blue, ivory white, and a little dash of green and purple here and there, depending on the mood and story! Think ethereal moonlight, moonlit forests, and mystical, whimsical beauty, all rolled into one.
Speaking of moonlit forests, my last journey to London took me through the stunningly picturesque woods of Epping Forest, the perfect setting for some serious twirling! (Did you know you can purchase those gorgeous little train sets, you know, the ones with the little locomotives and carriages, they are just lovely for carrying around my tutus!)
On our travels this week we must go visit the shops of Bond Street, darling. There's a magnificent store named Harrods, and you simply cannot imagine the clothes! Imagine, rows of colourful silks, ribbons, laces, and even feathers! It's truly heavenly. Why not pick up some lace or velvet and create a custom tutu? My darling grandmother would just love it if she could see my magnifique tutus! I know my grandfather still calls it "silly dress" but once you put it on and spin in that beautiful twirl, everyone changes their minds.
The Tutu: A Symbol of Artistic Power
Think about it, loves! Even in those early days, the tutu was not just a costume - it was a statement. A statement of artistry, femininity, and pure theatrical power! It’s a reminder that dance has the potential to be both beautiful and powerful, a truth we must hold onto!
*To celebrate, let’s make this a week of all things pink and twirling, darlings! Pick up your tutus and twirl around the house! Don't forget to share your adventures with me on social media, using #TutuTuesday, because as always, the more twirling the better! *
Until next time, keep dancing!
Emma xxx
P.S Don't forget to catch me performing next week! I'll be at The Grand Theatre in Derby with a show called "The Magic of Fairyland." There will be stunning music, glorious dancing and maybe even a pink tutu. You wouldn't want to miss that, darling. And after the performance, you know I will be in the shops! What do you think I'll get? Let me know your thoughts. I can't wait to read them all. xx
Please note: This blog post is a fictional work and does not represent a historical account of the evolution of the ballet tutu. However, it does include elements of truth, particularly regarding the ballet styles and theatrical settings of the era. The world of dance is vibrant and filled with wonder - don't hesitate to share your passion with others!
