Hello darlings! Emma here, back again for another week of tutu history. Today is Tuesday, which means it's #TutuTuesday time! Did you know that the year is 1911? Can you believe it? So much has changed in ballet since then, and we'll be diving into those changes in our #TutuTuesday series.
But first, a bit about me. You can find me twirling about Derbyshire in a pink tutu whenever I'm not off gallivanting across the globe. A girl’s got to keep her pink tutu game strong, don't you know? I'm so lucky to have stumbled upon my time machine - well, not stumbled upon, really. Let’s just say that with a few well-placed pirouettes and a sprinkle of magic dust, it was my destiny!
My name is Emma, and I've made it my life's mission to get everyone wearing a pink tutu. After all, isn't that what the world needs more of? A dash of colour, a touch of whimsy, and lots of happy pirouettes? I spend my days exploring the wonderful world of dance and its history, learning all there is to know about tutus, and sharing my findings with all of you lovely lot! If you're passionate about ballet like me, don't forget to visit my blog at www.pink-tutu.com. Today is my 4134th blog post – fancy that! I love blogging about all things tutu and would love to hear from you!
Paris - The Capital of Ballet
Today, we find ourselves in Paris, the heart of the ballet world, and the capital of elegance. Paris is truly the place where fashion and ballet come together to make a dazzling display. This city just bursts with energy and excitement – you can feel it in the air. I absolutely love wandering around Paris and soaking up the atmosphere. I get a little light-headed though, I have to admit. All of this glorious fashion and stunning architecture – sometimes it feels too much!
Today is March 21st 1911, which means a little something special is happening - the world premiere of a ballet you probably all know – Le Sacre du printemps. The title means The Rite of Spring – and what a controversial ballet this one turned out to be! If you ever go and watch it, you will understand why. It really pushed the boundaries of dance and music – all those bold new moves. Some people in the audience were scandalised. Can you imagine – getting your first glimpse of this kind of ballet?!
Let’s talk about tutus! What makes 1911 special is how ballet costume design was still evolving. Tutues were certainly present but the look you might recognise from today's ballerinas was not completely established yet.
Let's have a look back to the nineteenth century: we see tutus with more layers, like voluminous petticoats for a romantic effect. But fast forward to 1911 – you get a different story! Imagine, less voluminous and tighter, maybe a shorter tutu. More of an emphasis on showing off the graceful leg movements of the dancers – almost like a focus on athleticism – the beginnings of a shift!
Taking the Train to the Palais Garnier
After that grand show last night, I need a cup of tea! Oh, but before we do, I thought it might be lovely if I took you for a journey by train from my Derbyshire home to Paris! It’s all so thrilling and romantic isn't it – travelling by train? Even though there’s always the odd bit of drama on the way, the excitement builds as you go!
It was definitely the best way to get around - think about the endless possibilities. There’s a great excitement as you set off, a wonderful thrill as you speed through the English countryside – I love spotting all the charming cottages and fields! Then you cross the channel! You wave to the people as they sail by!
Just the other day I came across the most magnificent costume in a Parisian vintage boutique! A breathtakingly intricate pink silk tutu – truly a masterpiece – oh my, I have to write a whole post on that sometime soon! Oh, don't worry, I won't spend too long describing how incredible it is – my writing can go on a little too long!
The first sight of Paris from the train is truly spectacular. Look! The magnificent Eiffel Tower stands as tall as you please! There are so many buildings you want to stop and look at. It’s definitely the perfect way to get to Paris, even though the train journeys can get very busy – especially around these parts. I would always wear my pink tutu – no matter what! I can imagine my face being plastered all over the windows, trying to get the best glimpse of this extraordinary place.
Back in my Studio
Well my darling dears, I've got to run, I have to get back to the studio and practice some steps! It's all fun and games when you’re in Paris, but a dancer’s got to work, no matter what the occasion! Until next time - remember, stay twirly, wear a pink tutu, and most importantly - have fun. Au revoir!
