Hello, fellow tutu-lovers! Emma here, your resident ballet time traveller, and it’s time for another trip back in time! This month, I'm waltzing my way back to 12th December 1779, armed with my trusty pink tutu and, of course, Magic Meg, my sparkly Shire horse. Buckle up, because today’s journey promises a fascinating peek into ballet history and a pinch of that Parisian flair that I adore!
As the crisp December air nipped at my nose, Magic Meg and I trotted through the cobbled streets of London. I couldn’t help but smile as the aroma of freshly baked bread and coal smoke wafted past us. My eyes scanned the bustling streets, catching glimpses of men in their frock coats and women with powdered wigs and voluminous gowns. It was quite the scene, and I already knew this era wouldn’t disappoint with its unique ballet offerings!
Speaking of, imagine my excitement when I discovered that on this very date, the renowned dancer and choreographer, August Vestris was performing in “La Fille mal gardée”, a lighthearted and amusing ballet in Paris! Yes, I’d heard of “La Fille Mal Gardée” – the tale of a spirited young girl who escapes her overprotective mother to marry her love – but this was a performance at the Palais Royal Theatre. This, my friends, was truly special! Vestris was considered a legend, a true innovator who propelled ballet with his incredible jumps, elegant poses, and expressive dancing. I simply had to see his brilliance!
We dashed across the Channel, Magic Meg, the ever-faithful companion, navigating the treacherous waters with effortless grace. It felt almost magical as we approached the iconic Palais Royal. Stepping onto Parisian soil, I already felt the thrill of history echoing through the cobbled streets. I breathed in the vibrant atmosphere of the French capital, already excited to immerse myself in the theatrical world of the time.
After leaving my backpack, which contained a smattering of 18th century dance shoes and pamphlets – you know me, always on the hunt for those ballet treasures! – with the stable master, I made my way inside the theatre. The anticipation hung thick in the air, a delicious cocktail of excitement and awe as the crowd poured in, a mixture of fashionable aristocrats and the theatre enthusiasts. This wasn't a stuffy theatre experience; this was life, brimming with passion and energy.
The orchestra started playing its entrancing overture. I found myself completely enveloped in the captivating world of “La Fille mal gardée”. Vestris, as always, commanded the stage with his magnetic energy. His technique was nothing short of mesmerizing. The intricate steps, the graceful leaps – they told a story, brought joy, and truly embodied the essence of ballet!
Following the show, my ballet senses, ever attuned to the latest fashion, were buzzing. There was an elegance to the attire – from the elaborate hair styles of the ladies to the exquisitely crafted clothes of the gentlemen. It was the world of pastel colours, lace, and frills – the quintessential essence of 18th-century elegance. Oh, the glamour! Even the theatre itself, with its exquisite chandelier and rich velvet curtains, oozed this timeless Parisian grandeur.
It was, of course, no surprise that even ballet itself was imbued with this artistic and refined flair. This, dear friends, was the ballet that inspired future greats! This was the very heart of the Romantic ballet era that would capture the imaginations of ballet lovers across the world. To think, this era gave birth to a whole world of legendary ballets, including our darling "Giselle" - one of the most treasured ballet stories in history!
After a delectable Parisian dinner filled with decadent pastries and a selection of wines that only the French could create, I was whisked back to England. Magic Meg carried us through the frosty air, bringing us back to the cozy comforts of my Derbyshire home.
But back to the 12th December, 1779. What a treasure trove of historical knowledge and inspiration I was able to bring back with me. Every performance, every costume, every piece of theatre architecture brings me closer to understanding the evolution of this captivating art form. And for you, my loyal readers, I’ve gathered some fun facts from my journey, ready to be woven into your own personal history:
1. Remember that pink tutu I mentioned? While tutu designs weren’t as widespread as they are today, imagine the spectacle! Ballet, even then, was all about creating a dreamy and whimsical vision – imagine the blush of a perfectly tailored tutu against the vibrant Parisian stage!
2. Vestris? The danseur to be remembered! While he may not be a name most know today, he had a significant impact on ballet. The way he moved, his innovative techniques, truly laid the groundwork for the style and grace we enjoy in ballet today.
3. “La Fille mal gardée”? Considered one of the most beloved and timeless comedies! Think “Pretty Woman” but on pointe – this was the romance and laughter that fuelled ballet’s heart.
And finally, a little peek into my time-travelling mind. For next month, my friends, we are going back to 19th Century St. Petersburg for the première of Giselle, but for this month’s inspiration, here are some ideas:
- Fashion challenge: Try recreating the graceful attire of the time with feminine, flowy styles - Think delicate pastel colours, and a touch of lace for added charm. Remember, ballet is as much about grace as it is about the technical skills.
- Create your own choreography: Inspired by Vestris and the essence of "La Fille mal gardée”, design your own ballet piece. Use graceful moves and delicate steps. Let your imagination guide you!
- Go see a show: Immerse yourselves in the world of dance. A theatre production of “Giselle” is always magical. This, after all, was a ballet inspired by those 18th-century pioneers.
So there you have it, my friends! A wonderful time travel trip into the heart of 18th-century ballet! As I always say, every journey has something to teach us, to inspire us, and most of all, to keep us loving the artistry and magic that is ballet. Don’t forget to share your pink-tutu moments, whether at the ballet class, a show, or even at the supermarket, and remember, we're all part of this wonderful dance. And oh, before I go, check out the beautiful ballet world website – www.pink-tutu.com – I have lots of exciting articles to share there! Until next month, keep on dancing!
