Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travels, your one-stop shop for all things ballet, history, and, of course, pink tutus! Today, we're twirling our way back to 3rd March 1681, and oh my, what a delightful adventure awaits us!
As always, I'm your guide, Emma, from the rolling hills of Derbyshire, and I'm here to share my passion for ballet with you, no matter the time period! I'm always eager to share what I learn through my travels and, more importantly, inspire you to wear your own pink tutu with confidence! Because, let's be honest, life's too short to be anything but a sparkly, twirling pink tutu wearing icon!
This month, my trusty steed, Magic Meg, has transported us back to the royal court of Louis XIV in Versailles. Think sparkling chandeliers, velvet draperies, and the most incredible costumes you can imagine! Magic Meg is quite the showstopper herself, with her glistening pink coat, golden hooves, and white mane and tail that billow in the breeze. And wouldn't you know it, she even matches my favourite pink tutu perfectly!
A Ballet Ball to Remember
Imagine being whisked away to a glittering ballet ball hosted by the King himself! The air crackles with excitement and the sounds of beautiful music echo throughout the halls.
On this date, March 3rd 1681, a magnificent ballet ball was held in honour of the King's birthday. The ballroom was adorned with flowers and lavish decorations, with candlelight casting a warm, romantic glow.
The most talked-about feature? Well, apart from the King and Queen, it had to be the ballet! Performed by some of the most celebrated dancers of the time, this performance was a symphony of elegance and grace. Think extravagant costumes with dazzling embroidery, impressive technical feats, and heartfelt expressions – a real treat for the senses!
But let’s be honest, ballet back then was more than just twirling and leaping! The ballets were grand, elaborate productions incorporating music, singing, poetry, and even storytelling! It was a spectacle to behold.
Backstage Chatter
My backpack, a treasured leather satchel with all sorts of vintage ballet goodies, was bursting with information. From a meticulously hand-drawn sketch of the dancers’ elaborate costumes to a worn, well-loved score sheet, I was overwhelmed with excitement. I've added this information to my ever-growing digital archives on www.pink-tutu.com. Keep your eyes peeled, darlings, because there will be a new section dedicated to ballet in the 17th Century very soon!
As I was sifting through my new acquisitions, I discovered an amusing anecdote about the infamous Mademoiselle de la Fontaine, one of the stars of the performance. She is a very captivating dancer with an aura that could rival a supernova! As you can imagine, her backstage dressing room was a riot of activity, full of hairdressers, seamstresses, and a whole array of excited flustered ladies fussing over her outfit! Just picture the scene, darlings, and try not to giggle. It was the ultimate backstage mayhem!
However, amidst all the commotion, a very peculiar incident occurred. The poor seamstress accidentally accidentally! sewed a button onto Mademoiselle de la Fontaine's dress… but it was not your average button. It was pink! A beautiful shade of soft pastel pink, much to the shock and horror of the lady-in-waiting! Apparently, pink was not deemed ‘serious’ enough for the royal ballet performances back then! However, Mademoiselle de la Fontaine, always the daring rebel, embraced her pink button with glee, exclaiming “Oh! It gives a touch of charm and vibrancy to the show!”
Talk about making a statement, right?
A Little Inspiration from the Past
From this enchanting encounter with ballet history, we can see the importance of adding your own unique spin, even in the most traditional settings. Remember, there's a bit of magic to be found everywhere, especially in embracing individuality. So, whether it’s a sprinkle of pink in your wardrobe, a dramatic gesture on stage, or a bold step in your daily routine, never be afraid to bring a little sparkle and surprise to the world!
Speaking of sparkle, it wouldn't be a Pink Tutu Time Travels post without a little glimpse of the ballet world as we know it today! This month, I had the chance to see a performance of The Sleeping Beauty at the Royal Opera House. Such breathtaking artistry! It brought a tear to my eye, as if all the elegance of those past performances flowed through my veins.
I also managed to squeeze in a lovely shopping trip to Liberty London, which, dear readers, is just bursting with amazing pink tutu-worthy fabrics. I came across the most incredible pink sequined tulle that has to be seen to be believed. I’ll be showcasing it on my YouTube channel this month - make sure to subscribe to keep up with the fun!
Time for a Pink Tutu Twirl!
As I wrap up this blog post, I find myself yearning for another adventure. So, where will Magic Meg whisk us away to next? That’s for you, my dearest readers, to discover! In the meantime, remember to always embrace your inner ballerina and spread a little bit of pink tutu magic wherever you go. Until next time, darlings!
Much love, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
*P.S. * Did you know that Ballet classes are booming all over the world? There's even a new ballet school opening up just down the road from me! It seems the pink tutu phenomenon is sweeping the nation! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @pinktututimetrevels to stay updated on all my ballet adventures and inspiration.
