Hello lovelies! It's your favourite tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, here, back with another juicy instalment of my Pink Tutu Travels. August is a month for all things summery, with long, sun-drenched days and the joyous thrum of festivals and celebrations. And what better way to celebrate than by whipping up my trusty pink tutu, mounting my beautiful Meg (whose white mane seems to catch every golden ray of sunlight) and travelling through the corridors of time to…wait for it… 1661!
That’s right, we’re stepping back over three hundred years to a pivotal moment in ballet history.
As a seasoned ballerina, I'm always keen to witness how ballet has evolved over the years. This journey takes us to Paris, the centre of fashion and artistic inspiration. August 8th, 1661 marks a truly momentous day: the establishment of the Académie Royale de Danse!
I admit, the journey to 17th century Paris wasn't easy. The roads were dusty and cobbled, and I found myself dodging horse-drawn carriages - let’s just say Meg and I needed a little extra sugar and a long soak in the stables afterwards! But I wouldn't trade the experience for anything.
Arriving at the Palais Royal, I felt a thrill of excitement. The energy was electrifying; the streets buzzed with lively conversation, artists were busy capturing scenes in the surrounding gardens, and the air was filled with a vibrant mix of music and chatter. This was the heart of a cultural revolution!
The Royal Decree
Imagine my surprise as I learned that Louis XIV, the Sun King himself, had issued the royal decree creating this prestigious academy. You know how much I adore a bit of history, so learning that he took personal interest in promoting the arts was thrilling.
The Académie Royale de Danse became the ultimate training ground for talented dancers. It provided rigorous instruction in all things ballet, solidifying its status as an esteemed form of dance.
To celebrate this landmark moment, I slipped into a bright pink satin tutu - perfect for soaking up all the Parisian flair. The silks, I must say, are a far cry from the stretch materials we use today! Imagine hand-sewn satin, embellished with ribbons and delicate floral motifs - simply exquisite!
The Evolution of Dance
The founding of this academy wasn’t just about codifying steps; it signified a paradigm shift in dance. Gone were the days of simplistic, courtly movements. Ballet was entering a new age of virtuosity and expressive freedom. It’s incredible how a single decree could pave the way for such a monumental evolution in dance!
To truly grasp the essence of ballet at the time, I headed to the theatre for a performance of L’Amour vainqueur - a delightful opera-ballet composed by Jean-Baptiste Lully. The sets were exquisite – imagine opulent painted backdrops depicting magical forests and swirling clouds – pure fantasy! The dancers, in elaborate costumes adorned with rich velvets and silk ribbons, moved with elegance and grace. I found myself mesmerised by the way they moved - almost as if they were floating!
Taking Inspiration Back to the Present
There's so much to learn from this time period. It really helps to put contemporary ballet into context. Watching the dancers perform reminded me of the timeless beauty of classical dance. It’s easy to get swept up in the theatricality of modern ballet, but it’s important to honour those early pioneers who laid the foundations for our art form today.
I'm not one to leave a time period empty-handed, so of course I slipped my rucksack onto my back, filled it with precious ballet ephemera. A beautifully penned program from L’Amour vainqueur, a faded fragment of costume from the Académie’s earliest years, and a vintage ballet score. They are such special treasures and they’re now part of my ever-growing collection at home in Derbyshire.
Before I whisked away on my trusty Meg, I noticed a flurry of movement and colour outside. This was the heart of la Belle Époque – Parisian life was abuzz with innovative fashion and creative spirit. I spent the afternoon strolling around the fashionable districts, browsing through the chic boutiques. The shops were bursting with silks and satins in glorious hues of pink, emerald, and gold. The gowns were elaborate, with elaborate ruffles and bows. And, my dear friends, you'll never guess what I discovered tucked away in one charming boutique - a delicate pink satin ballet slipper with pearl detailing - a real treasure! Of course, I scooped it up right away. After all, every ballet-loving girl needs a vintage keepsake or two!
As always, time travel is a whirlwind experience. Back in my present time, I am utterly inspired and energised. My favourite Parisian memory will forever be the moment I gazed upon the Palais Royal, feeling a deep connection to a momentous time in dance history. It is a time to remember with great reverence and wonder!
And now, my darling dears, I leave you with a tutu challenge! I am absolutely determined to get the world dancing in pink. Share a picture of your most cherished pink tutu on Instagram, and tag #PinkTutuTravels so I can see your delightful sartorial choices!
Until next month, keep swirling and twirling, and let your spirit dance with the rhythm of your own heart!
Yours in pink, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
