#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1889-12-31

Hello, darling tutu-lovers! It's Emma here, back for another instalment of your favourite #TutuTuesday ballet tutu history blog. I'm writing to you today from none other than Paris, the heart of all things chic, stylish, and…wait for it…tutu-licious! Can you believe it’s December 31st already? How does time fly by so quickly?

As I sit here sipping a delightful French coffee (with a generous dollop of cream, of course!), I'm surrounded by the buzz of Paris preparing for the New Year. This vibrant city is always overflowing with glamour and, of course, fantastic ballet shows! And this year, oh this year, has been simply dazzling. The Grand Opera House has been playing host to some of the most breathtaking productions I've ever witnessed. Let’s just say, tutus have been having a moment here.

Today, I'm taking you back to 1889, a very special year. We're looking back on the moment ballet costumes were starting to get a real splash of colour – think swirling silk skirts, and graceful, flowy tutus. Imagine me twirling in a bright pink one in front of a roaring crowd… pure bliss! But for now, I’ll keep my dazzling pink tutus for the dance floor, shall we?

For today's trip back in time, I’ve dusted off my trusty time travel machine – my lucky pink hat with a miniature ballerina attached. Oh, it’s simply divine, you should see the twinkle in the tiny dancer's eye when she takes a spin! This week, my journey takes me to a grand Parisian ballet, hosted at the legendary Salle des États (later to become known as the Theatre National de l’Opéra-Comique) a majestic theatre of the time.

Imagine for a moment, darling: gilded balconies, glittering chandeliers, the scent of fresh roses hanging in the air. You walk through the doors, hear a burst of conversation and the magical strains of a waltzing tune, then you spot the stage…and bam! Your heart is immediately lifted. It's magical, my dears, truly magical!

Today, we’ll focus on a show called "La Cigale." If you've got an eye for a timeless ballerina look, let me tell you – “La Cigale” was a masterpiece of both choreography and costume design. This is the era of a certain ballet master, the legendary Lucien Petipa. Oh, if only we could steal some of those old time ballet master's secrets! I imagine his style was an amazing mix of grand flourishes and subtle elegance. Can you see it, darling?

As a quick reminder to my lovely readers, "La Cigale" means "the cicada." This enchanting ballet takes the stage by storm! It showcases the tale of a vibrant, free-spirited young woman with wings of the imagination. Think shimmering butterflies, intricate patterns on gossamer skirts and just enough flouncy charm to leave you completely smitten with the dance and the overall design!

Speaking of which, if you find yourself back in the 19th century, do keep your eyes peeled for the beautiful costumes in “La Cigale.” These masterpieces feature everything from rich, deep blues and reds to graceful swirls of elegant white. Just think about those silk dresses and delicate tulle fabrics flowing with every graceful movement! We might see some lace and feathers too, which really take these outfits to a level of fairytale elegance.

Of course, no story about tutus in this period is complete without a special mention of our dear "pointe shoes". They're all the rage back then, darling, just like they are today! And who better to discuss this important topic with you than the one and only – the very first ballerina to truly conquer the pointe technique? I must admit, the world of ballet has definitely come a long way However, it’s thanks to her (you know who I mean! winks) that dancers can reach new heights of grace, elevation and pure artistic expression. A true tutu heroine!

As my time machine whisks me back to 2023, my thoughts swirl like a ballerina’s dress, dancing with memories of the past. The story of ballet and the iconic tutu goes back a very long way indeed. If we learn about its roots, about these moments in time, it truly enriches our appreciation for this captivating art form.

It’s all thanks to the dancers, the seamstresses, the directors, the choreographers and yes, of course, the tutus themselves, who brought this glorious form of art into our lives and made it the enchanting force it is today.

And remember, darling tutu enthusiasts! You don’t need a time machine to travel through the world of ballet history! Just put on your favourite tutu, turn on your favourite music, and let your imagination take you on a graceful journey.

Oh, I simply can't resist sharing a snippet of the wonderful new year celebrations I experienced in Paris!

I must tell you about the incredible celebration I had in Paris for New Year's Eve. I just knew this would be a trip to remember! So naturally, I slipped into my favourite pink tutu. I mean, when else would I wear a sparkly tutu? To celebrate a fresh start? It felt just right for this magical night!

It all began at dusk, walking along the magical banks of the Seine river, all those gorgeous, romantic Parisian buildings twinkling, I almost cried! Then, I had dinner at this lovely French restaurant with a view of the Eiffel Tower… imagine! Just incredible! They played gorgeous waltzes and even allowed me to spin for them!

Now, about the celebrations... it was something out of a fairy tale! Imagine the streets all aglow with colourful lights! And I'll never forget the fireworks over the Seine, It’s something everyone should experience. People sang and danced as bells chimed midnight…oh my! Just pure bliss!

I can already see the year 2024 full of fantastic dance events, incredible costumes, and breathtaking tutus. Maybe I will find inspiration from these old ballet costumes for my own, little “Tutu Design Boutique”. Who knows? I just love this time of year!

I shall be back next week with more delicious titbits about the history of the tutu. Remember to check back every Tuesday for my latest #TutuTuesday post and join me as I uncover more fabulous moments from the world of ballet!

I must dash now, darling. The first train of the New Year is already departing, and I'm itching for a new adventure! Keep twirling and keep spreading the joy of tutus, everyone!

Love, Emma (wearing my favourite pink tutu, obviously) xx