Hello darlings! It's Emma, your resident pink-tutu-wearing time traveler, back for another dose of tutu history. Today we're stepping back in time to 19th December 1893 - a glorious date in ballet history, believe me!
Before we delve into the world of tutus from that bygone era, let's grab a cuppa, snuggle into a comfy chair, and dream of dancing under the chandelier with a pink tutu swirling around our legs!
You know me, I love nothing more than exploring the evolution of ballet and the captivating evolution of the tutu. It's not just about the dance, it's about the style! And in 1893, fashion was truly divine. We're talking lace, silk, and those beautiful puffed sleeves. Swoon!
But where shall we even start?! Sigh Such a wealth of ballet loveliness...
Well, this Tuesday we find ourselves in Paris, the absolute capital of dance. It's where the most brilliant dancers and choreographers of the world grace the stages. Paris is synonymous with fashion and elegance, and ballet truly embodies this ethos. Imagine, delicate, graceful dancers adorned in flowing silks, their bodies telling tales with every movement. It's like a dream, really!
Now, about our darling tutus in 1893...
This period saw a transition, you see. The tutus of the earlier Romantic era, long and full, were becoming shorter, a bit more... daring! This shift reflected a change in the nature of the ballet itself, where technical prowess began to take centre stage. Think rapid pirouettes, leaps, and incredible footwork - oh, it was such an exciting time for ballet!
The tutus themselves weren't as "en pointe" as those we see today (hehe, pun intended!). They were still relatively long and full, but the volume was being trimmed a little, making them more flexible and easier to move in. You can still picture that delightful swish of the layers as the dancers pirouette, though. It was all about the grace, you see?
And speaking of tutus... have you seen the latest must-have collection by Maison Chanel? It's all about the tutu-inspired designs - flowing skirts, delicate lace, and splashes of vibrant pinks, blues and even some daring reds. I just picked up a pink chiffon dress, darling! The detail is just to die for.
Back to our timeline, dear readers. 19th December 1893 saw the premiere of Marius Petipa's ballet, "La Esmeralda" in Moscow. Oh, the drama, the romance, and of course, the tutus! The romantic storyline, with the tragic romance between Esmeralda and the poet, and the jealous rage of Quasimodo, was an instant hit. And don't even get me started on the costumes!
But let's talk about the heart of the matter - the tutu! You'd see dancers gracefully adorned in light-hued tutus, with elaborate embellishments and shimmering sequins, embodying the elegance and passion of the ballet. The skirts would have been crafted from layers of delicate fabrics, creating a beautiful swirl of colour and motion as they danced across the stage.
I adore these historical tutus because they blend beauty with movement. Think of how they would gently billow as the dancers pirouetted, almost like they had a life of their own. I'm all for those fluffy tutus, as much as I love the sleek lines of the modern ones. Both hold such unique allure!
Now, you know how much I love travelling by train. It's simply romantic and a way to travel in style. And today's train journey will be no exception! Oh la la I am off to the capital of ballet - London, for the greatest treat - the Royal Ballet's performance of "La Esmeralda".
They are putting on a magnificent show, my dears, so be prepared for a grand experience. Imagine - velvet theatre seats, elegant gowns, and that beautiful, enchanting music as the dancers take flight. Oh, the joy! It makes me giddy with excitement, just thinking about it!
Now, you're wondering... how does a pink tutu-loving blogger afford all this, right? Well, it all started with my passion. I'd dance anywhere, any time. It started at ballet classes in my home town, Derbyshire, you know, lovely scenery! As my love for ballet bloomed, I began performing - and well, let's just say, dancing doesn't pay badly when you're doing what you love, darling.
I mean, what could be more perfect than earning a living by dancing in pink tutus? It’s a dream, honestly.
Speaking of dreams... darling, don’t forget, my aim in life is to get everyone wearing a pink tutu. Even if it’s just a pink tulle skirt paired with your favourite cardigan, embrace that pink tutu spirit! Be daring, be confident, and don’t be afraid to dance your heart out!
Until next Tuesday, darling, remember, a little sparkle and twirl never hurt anyone. Don't forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com, and leave a comment below! I’d love to know what your favorite part of the 1893 ballet world is!
Much love, Emma xx
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