Hello lovelies! Welcome back to Pink Tutu! It's Tuesday, which means it's time for a little trip through history! I'm back again, Emma, your favourite pink tutu-wearing time-traveler, ready to delve into the captivating world of the ballet tutu! Today, I'm whizzing back to 3 January 1905 - a date which saw a rather important step (pun intended) in the evolution of this magnificent garment.
Now, I know what you're thinking, "Emma, how on earth are we celebrating tutus in 1905?" Well, my darling readers, hold on to your hats, because back then, tutus were a bit different! Forget the whimsical, airy layers you see today. In 1905, the 'tutu' wasn't so much a tutu, but a 'tulle skirt' worn under a flowing, elaborate dress.
Imagine the scene: we're in Paris, the very heart of ballet. The theatres are buzzing with excitement for a production of 'La Esmeralda', starring the incomparable Isadora Duncan. The stage lights shimmer, illuminating the grace of the dancers in their dramatic gowns, revealing the faintest hint of fluffy tulle peeking beneath.
Oh, to be there! Can you imagine the electric atmosphere, the swirling of colours, the hush as the music swells and the dance begins? And imagine me, nestled amongst the stylish audience, decked out in the very latest Parisian fashions – a bewitching, cherry-red dress with a frothy, lilac tulle skirt! (Okay, maybe I'm adding a touch of pink flair. Wink)
It was a time when the stage was all about theatricality, drama, and grandeur. The tulle skirts, barely peeking beneath the layers, served as a gentle, delicate counterpoint to the drama of the full-skirted gowns. They provided a hint of a peek at something playful and ethereal, hinting at the evolution that lay ahead.
But wait, there's more! Today's date is significant for another reason. In Derbyshire, England (my hometown!) the annual ‘New Year Ball’ at the stately Kedleston Hall took place. Imagine! Picture the elegant ballroom adorned with grand chandeliers, ladies waltzing in lavish gowns with glimpses of tulle peeking beneath, gentlemen in their dapper suits. The air would be alive with laughter and the clinking of glasses. I'm already picturing myself in my dream ballgown with a touch of shimmering pink tulle for an added touch of whimsy. (This could totally be a #TutuTuesday future post!)
But enough about dreams for now, back to 1905. Imagine, my darling tututistas, we are merely a few short years away from the era when the ballet tutu truly comes into its own! Just wait until I can reveal the stories of the iconic tutus of Diaghilev's Ballets Russes. We'll talk about tulle of every colour, with an endless flurry of creativity and ingenuity. We'll witness the birth of the tutu de pointe, allowing dancers to fly above the stage!
In the meantime, get ready for another delightful week filled with tutu dreams and balletic beauty. Until next Tuesday, I leave you with this: Remember, no matter what the shape, size or style of a tutu, it always holds a spark of magic. It whispers a silent story of grace, strength, and artistry, reminding us that ballet is a true celebration of human expression!
See you next week!
Love,
Emma xx
#TutuTuesday #BalletHistory #PinkTutu #TravelInTime #1905 #LaEsmeralda #IsadoraDuncan #Derbyshire #KedlestonHall #NewYearBall #BallGown #PinkIsMyColor #DreamsComeTrue
