Hello darlings! Welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com! It’s a glorious Tuesday and time for another journey through Ballet Tutu History!
Today I've travelled all the way to Paris, France, to a glorious summer's day - and wouldn't you know it, it's another Tutu-licious day for exploring history, darling!
Right now, Paris is bustling with excitement. The city is full of fabulous artists, writers and designers. I love their style. There is so much inspiration here, all these artistic types pouring over new ways to express themselves. The cafe terraces are overflowing, and the scent of coffee mingles with the laughter of friends, lovers, and intellectuals. But, for me, it's a city buzzing with excitement for a brand new ballet production by Serge Diaghilev called 'Pulcinella' I am just bursting to see this beautiful performance and learn all about this magical work of art, my darlings. It seems Diaghilev has created quite a stir with this production. Everyone is talking about it. Can't you feel the excitement, darlings? Isn't it so much fun to have a hot topic like this?
Anyway, I can't leave you hanging - you know what this day's topic is? Yes! * 'Pulcinella', that's right!**
It all started a year earlier when * Diaghilev commissioned Igor Stravinsky to create this work. Can you imagine getting to commission Stravinsky? That's so fab! He'd asked the young genius, Leon Bakst, to design the sets and costumes. Leon was known for his Oriental inspired creations and Diaghilev* wanted to add a dramatic, colorful flare.
Did you know that 'Pulcinella' is inspired by an Italian comedic character, like Punch, Mr Punch, and the Pantalone figures of Italian Commedia dell’arte performances. This kind of slapstick comic performance was incredibly popular in Italy and Stravinsky and Diaghilev cleverly adapted the music and choreography for Diaghilev's company, the Ballets Russes, and I think we all know that, Diaghilev being a true creative visionary, he wasn't simply retelling a tale. He had the inspiration and the confidence to present a completely new interpretation! The entire creation of the dance piece was revolutionary.
I’m so intrigued by the music. Imagine my delight when I learned Stravinsky has based the score on 18th century * Neapolitan music! It sounds beautiful and exciting. And you just know Diaghilev has pulled together some truly exquisite dancers for this production! This entire ballet is such a creative journey into another time and another culture. How absolutely fascinating is that! Oh, I do so love the ballet!
In 'Pulcinella', Bakst's genius shows. You will love it! Imagine Italian Commedia dell’arte characters re-imagined in exquisite, theatrical and stylized ballet costumes! *They’re all wearing fabulous tri-colour, tartan-inspired outfits. * You’ve gotta love it. These stunning tutus are simply extraordinary, my darlings. Just imagine Diaghilev's company taking centre stage in Bakst's dazzling costumes! Imagine those tutus swirling and flowing to the wonderful rhythm of Stravinsky's music.
That is exactly why this was such a momentous, innovative, and impactful performance. Think of it - Diaghilev gave Bakst so much artistic freedom! They brought together all the influences to create this truly innovative piece. A stunning mix of Italian Commedia dell’arte characters, ballet and modern music - so imaginative and wonderful! No wonder Diaghilev has received such glowing reviews and 'Pulcinella' has been declared a complete success.
But, the amazing ballet innovations continue for this fabulous company of Ballets Russes. It is already a name synonymous with elegance and beauty, darling, and I just know Diaghilev will take them from strength to strength.
If you can believe it, there is even more good news! I discovered, this day marks a very special event – the opening of the first full season of operas in Sydney, Australia! This will mean they will be introducing the opera and its artistry to the people there. Think of it, a whole world of musical and theatrical delight! The music lovers in Australia will now have access to a full season of operatic productions. Isn't that simply thrilling, darlings! I’ve heard the people of Sydney are so enthusiastic about culture! And who can blame them with all this *creative, colourful brilliance to be found!
This Sydney opera season is set to be one of artistic brilliance and I think it will make history too! Just you wait and see - there's a whole generation of opera lovers waiting to be born in Sydney. It’s so important to open up doors to creative possibilities for people all over the world, isn’t it, darlings! I am truly blessed to be here during this magical time in Sydney's history!
Let’s get back to my trip, darling! What are your favourite things about France, I ask you? * Paris* is truly magnificent. It's the most stylish city and I am in my element with the shops overflowing with amazing creations! My favourite find so far is this adorable, bright pink tutu for my wardrobe. I'll wear it to watch 'Pulcinella', don't you worry, I am not a London ballerina - Paris needs some extra pink power !
Just like that gorgeous pink tutu from the boutique, I love to discover amazing finds in my time travelling! Speaking of my adventures, I must pack up! It's almost time to get on that train and set off to a new city for another amazing cultural adventure! Remember to join me next Tuesday for another #TutuTuesday adventure in ballet history, my darling readers!
See you then,
Emma xoxo
