Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, and I'm back with another blast from the ballet past! This month, I'm whisking you all back to the 17th of July, 1747, with a twirl through the world of ballet during the reign of King George II. I’m wearing a gorgeous dusty pink tutu with fluffy feathers and a smattering of rhinestones that practically sparkle even in the dappled shade of the London streets. Magic Meg, my beautiful pink-sparkling Shire horse with a mane and tail like spun moonlight, is all ready for a gallop through the ages!
Before we start our grand tour of 18th-century ballet, I need to tell you about a fabulous ballet I just saw! Imagine, a performance at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in London featuring a captivating dancer named Marie Sallé, renowned for her expressive dancing and breathtaking movements. Her performance was truly magical! She was, by all accounts, an icon of grace and artistry, inspiring audiences across Europe with her breathtaking interpretations of classic ballet roles. The costumes were incredible! Exquisitely detailed silk gowns with cascading ribbons, and elaborate headdresses that perfectly complemented the beauty of the dancers.
Now, back to our journey. I know you are as curious as I am about the world of ballet in 1747, and my pink rucksack is brimming with tales and treasures.
Across the Channel: The Parisian Dance Scene
As always, we begin in Paris! In the heart of France, ballet is flourishing. While Italy is often thought of as the birthplace of ballet, Paris, my darlings, is where ballet found its real, captivating stage. Imagine elegant ballets, inspired by the mythological tales of ancient Greece and Roman mythology. These ballets showcased breathtaking costumes, a feast for the eyes, and exquisite choreography, and even featured the captivating music of the time! Just imagine – intricate musical interludes by composers like Jean-Philippe Rameau – a musical experience for the ages!
England’s Ballet Flourishes
Here in England, we were in the midst of what is called the "golden age" of English ballet. Imagine theatres bursting with lively and inventive works. You can even say England took inspiration from the vibrant dance scene across the channel, with a uniquely English twist. One of the most influential figures at this time was Jean-Georges Noverre. Noverre championed what was known as "ballet d’action," a dramatic form of ballet storytelling, taking ballet far beyond just mere technical prowess. His groundbreaking ideas revolutionized the way we viewed ballet – transforming it into a storytelling art form!
Now, as I stroll through the elegant streets of London, I can’t help but notice the blossoming dance scene here in England. Our city streets pulsate with the energy of dance, with the sounds of street performers and the rhythm of lively balls and parties. We are all caught up in the infectious dance craze, a contagious love for movement and grace!
The Queen of Ballet Fashion
Of course, any ballet journey is incomplete without delving into the fashion, darlings! Oh, the costumes! Think lavish brocades, exquisite silks, and an abundance of feathers and embellishments. This era celebrated flamboyant outfits for both the dancers and the audience! It's almost hard to imagine a world where audiences wore such fabulous outfits, each trying to outdo the other in their sheer brilliance and showstopping attire!
The men were also beautifully adorned. Imagine – waistcoats, buckled shoes, elaborate powdered wigs and knee breeches – such refined elegance! For a lady like me, I’ve gotta tell you, a real feast for the eyes, even compared to our present-day fashions! But there was much debate about the purity and decorum of the women’s clothing - and gasp some critics believed the dresses were a little too revealing and did not quite reflect the required respectability of the times!
Looking Ahead
I believe it’s clear – ballet during this time period was not about simplicity or a focus on pure movement; it was about embracing lavishness, elegance and captivating theatre. I truly believe that if this period could create such beauty, we can bring it into the present! In fact, that is exactly what I want to do - spread that beauty of ballet far and wide. I see everyone wearing pink tutus! A tutu is a powerful symbol of the beauty, elegance and captivating power of the ballet - a true celebration of this enchanting world.
Let's not just watch these stories unfold - let's be a part of the evolution of ballet. I encourage everyone to join me on this quest! Be bold, be glamorous, be playful, be you! And don’t forget - spread the love of the dance – wear pink tutus with pride and let your own ballet spirit soar!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this journey into ballet’s past. Come join me on next month's trip – I’ve already got some fab plans for our next grand adventure. But until then – Happy dancing and stay twirling, darlings!
Until next time, Emma (and Magic Meg)
www.pink-tutu.com
