Bonjour, mes chĂ©ries! Itâs Emma here, your pink-tutu-wearing, time-traveling guide to the wonderful world of ballet. And oh, the thrill of a fresh #TutuTuesday! I'm finally back in the city of lights after a rather bumpy train journey from my beloved Derbyshire (seriously, did the train really need to make those many stops?!). Paris is, as ever, whipping up a storm of inspiration with its delectable pastries, cobbled streets, and, of course, the utterly captivating world of ballet.
Today, darling readers, we're going to step back in time to April 15th, 1919. It's not just any day, but the very day the enchanting Diaghilev's Ballets Russes first presented "La Boutique Fantasque", a playful and vibrant ballet that made its debut at the Palais Garnier in Paris. Talk about a delightful performance to be part of!
For my #TutuTuesday foray into the past, Iâve chosen my very best pink tutu â well, a bit more lilac, but you know how my sartorial heart beats for all shades of loveliness! Iâm paired with the perfect ballet slippers â sparkly, soft and so, so pink. As for the dress code? We are still in the era of elegance â long, flowy skirts, impeccable hats, and jackets with a bit of flourish. It's a far cry from the leggings and sweaters I can rock in the 21st century, but who's complaining? Thereâs an incredible beauty to the formality of the era!
La Boutique Fantasque: A Dance of Magic and Wonder
Think swirling fabrics, intricate costumes, and a whimsical story â La Boutique Fantasque embodies pure artistry! Youâll be enthralled by the charming ballet â a mischievous ballet in one act. Imagine dolls coming alive, a charming toy-shop owner and his daughter, and beautiful danseurs portraying graceful puppets dancing amongst us!
The story is inspired by the toys that animate during the night! The enchanting choreography, oh it was divine, especially in the finale â the danseurs seemed to float on air, their bodies melting into perfect pas de bourree and chassĂ© movements. Their steps were precise, light and, dare I say, dreamy! The pas de deux between the daughter, known as Fanchette , and the âtoy shopâ prince, Cavalier, were filled with exquisite and dramatic storytelling. Every expression and movement made the whole ballet feel so magical, it just melts your heart.
Beyond the Ballerinas: What Was Life Like in Paris on That Day?
Beyond the ballet, 1919 was a time of healing, a period just after the first World War had ended. There was a glimmer of optimism, a feeling that a new era was being ushered in, that Paris was finding its grace and joy again. Think artists gathered in the cafĂ©s, sharing stories of the past while sketching the future, the Parisian charm at its peak! This atmosphere wouldâve been absolutely electrifying! And donât forget the fashion. From my travels, 1919 saw some delightful creations; flowing gowns with beads and lace and, most importantly, that chic flapper style! Ah! How I wished to be in the heart of Paris' fashion scene in the early 20th century. Sigh. I hope to visit that time period once again in my pink tutu! Twirls dreamily.
Tutu Inspiration
Letâs face it, my little fashionistas, La Boutique Fantasque gave the ballerina a much deserved spotlight and provided many of us with inspiration! Whatâs not to adore about dancing in a vibrant pink or red dress â think beautiful puffed skirts, flowing bows and even those tiny feathered accessories ! It just shouts playfulness and a hint of playful cheekiness.
*How Can You Live a Pink Tutu Life? *
Now I may not be able to teleport you back to the grand Palais Garnier for a performance, but I can suggest a few things to channel the magic of the day!
- Attend a ballet performance! If there's a ballet class near you, take your tutus, tutus, tutus (Did I say tutu? Because, yes! Itâs never enough tutus, you know!), grab a friend and immerse yourself in a beautiful ballet performance! Itâs absolutely the best way to bring a bit of ballet magic into your week.
- Listen to some music! I would highly recommend you pick up your turntable and add a touch of Tchaikovsky to your playlist for a whimsical listening experience.
- Ditch those trousers, ladies, and slip on a pink dress! Be the epitome of elegance and embrace your inner Fanchette. And who knows, you may be inspired to add a dazzling bow or a splash of pink into your outfits for a bit of Parisian flair!
- Go shopping, of course! This should be on your list any way you look at it! Grab a pair of ballerina shoes, or those fantastic sequined heels that give a hint of glitter to your outfit. Just like our danseurs, letâs shine bright!
Till Next Time!
Thereâs nothing quite as divine as being swept away in a ballet performance, now is there? And I promise to visit you again next week! I canât wait to delve further into our #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu history! Remember to subscribe to my blog so you can enjoy my latest travels. In the meantime, embrace the elegance and let those tutues twirl!
Xoxo, Emma, Your *Pink Tutu Time Traveller*
*Follow my Pink Tutu adventures! www.pink-tutu.com * *#PinkTutu #TutuTuesday #LaBoutiqueFantasque #Ballet #Paris *
