Oh darlings, Happy New Year! Can you believe it's January already? I feel like the last few weeks have flown by, full of glitter, twirls, and all things pink, of course. And speaking of pink, my gorgeous, pink shimmering tutu is ready for action - I'm feeling that ballet-themed New Year energy, and today's travel destination is all about it!
My beautiful Magic Meg is already all saddled up, a magnificent vision in her pink sparkling coat, golden hooves, and that glorious white mane and tail – ready to whisk us back in time. We're travelling to… January 1st, 1737! I’m especially excited for this trip – imagine all the amazing fashion, and, of course, ballet! Who knew that 1737 was such an exciting year for the world of dance?
Just the thought of all the beautiful, historic stories and stunning dance steps waiting to be explored fills me with excitement! You know I can't travel back in time without packing my special ballet rucksack – it's a true treasure trove, filled with notes, dance steps, and fashion finds from the past.
Before we jump back, let’s catch up on what's happening in the world of dance right here in Derbyshire. I went to see a fabulous performance at The Derby Theatre - a delightful rendition of Swan Lake, with costumes as spectacular as the dancers’ movements! It was an enchanting experience.
After all the glamour and grace of Derby Theatre, I found myself completely absorbed in ballet fashion. The gorgeous floral embellishments on a tutu? I absolutely adore them! I snagged a few pieces for my collection and can’t wait to show you all! You can catch up with my ballet style adventures over on my Instagram - @EmmaPinkTutu, of course!
*The ballet world in 1737 *
Now we're ready for a magical journey! Magic Meg has her ears perked up and her tail is swishing with anticipation – time to go back to 1737!
On January 1st, 1737, there were plenty of dance performances going on – it was a popular entertainment for the aristocracy across Europe, you know!
Now imagine this: Parisian theatres were bursting with ballet, as were Italian court balls. You can picture me gracing the floors in a flowing pale pink gown – it's the perfect match for my signature tutu, and of course, it’s all perfectly appropriate for a 1737 evening! I wonder what stories I might uncover from the world of Parisian theatre? It must have been truly magical, with dancers gliding through the stages. I can’t wait to catch the whimsy!
Of course, I’ll make sure I’m back for tea with my favourite Derbyshire vintage ballet shoes in time! They’ve got all those beautiful embellishments – such exquisite artistry. And let’s not forget my lovely afternoon tea at the Derbyshire Bakehouse!
The 1730s ballet scene in Europe
Back in 1737, the ballet world was a very different place. You see, the dancers wore beautiful, long, flowing robes. Think of those lovely silk skirts with flowing lace… you can’t help but feel elegant!
They weren’t wearing tutus back then, you see, but they danced so gracefully – just picture beautiful, gliding movements! In a way, ballet back then was like the most glamorous ball ever, except it was on a stage. The dances were filled with elegance, flowing moves and of course, amazing costumes – and all to the beautiful melodies of classical music.
They were quite different, these 1730s performances, but equally as graceful and as captivating. The whole concept was just so elegant, wouldn’t you agree? The costumes were elaborate and intricate, the music was mesmerising - and I think those dancers had amazing strength to perform in such beautiful and graceful, yet complicated dresses!
My first 1737 encounter: a Royal Waltz
Magic Meg, you are so good, and now here I am in the heart of 1737, sitting at the side of a grand theatre in Paris. What a feeling, and a beautiful one! I can feel the anticipation in the air - the excitement, the music, and the magic… a true sense of anticipation! The dancers are getting ready to waltz and oh, they are a sight to see.
Their robes flow as gracefully as the clouds and their movements are fluid and mesmerizing. The colour and the sheer beauty of their dance is just breathtaking! I’ve found my passionate interest – and what an experience. The theatre is filled with whispers of excitement and awe.
And what is more fascinating, the Royal Family is in attendance, their gowns as glorious as a full bloom garden, and a dazzling sight for the eyes.
The sound of a soft violin and harp brings a gentle calm. My, how the notes bring an instant sense of beauty, just like a magical enchantment! And it’s no surprise because ballet back in 1737 was considered a royal art.
It’s such a feeling of history – this theatre is filled with excitement.
And you know I love a story, darlings! I'm already collecting some tales of the world of ballet back in 1737 and can't wait to tell them all to you. This, you see, is where my passion for dance, history, and fashion all collide - I'm living the dream! It's absolutely magical, and the most wonderful time to explore!
It’s no surprise why people go wild for a good ballet performance, you see! These graceful dance steps, and these beautiful outfits. You see, I’m in the right place, at the right time - a little dance time traveler!
I'll be sure to tell you more about all my 1737 adventures next time, but for now, it’s time to catch up with some ballet practice in Derbyshire – oh how I love those warm studios, the soft shoes, and my comfy Derbyshire life. I'll see you all soon, darlings, but for now, keep spreading the love of pink!
Until next time… twirl away, Emma PinkTutu
www.pink-tutu.com
