Post number 1563 - www.pink-tutu.com
Darling ballet-lovers! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, back with another fabulous foray into the past! This month, I've galloped through the centuries on the back of my dearest Magic Meg, a shire horse as pink and sparkly as my most treasured tutu, all the way to Paris! Imagine the sheer joy of arriving in the City of Lights, that dazzling city of fashion, theatre, and art. Can you believe we're on the cusp of a new century, a new era for ballet itself? And this time, I was especially excited, as it was the 3rd of March, 1791 - the date of a performance that would go down in history!
Before we delve into the ballet world, darling, just imagine my delight at being in Paris! The aroma of fresh bread, the bustle of the cobbled streets, the chatter of people in beautifully embroidered clothes - it was truly enchanting! We stayed at a charming little hotel, all chandeliers and silk curtains. Imagine my joy! I could barely wait to don my most extravagant pink tutu and visit the opulent theatres of Paris, ready to take in all the magic of ballet!
Now, where were we? Ah yes, 3rd March, 1791! This particular evening saw the first performance of a ballet called "Psyché" at the Théâtre du Vaudeville.
Now, this performance wasn't your usual elegant, classical affair, darling! It was what you might call "dramatic ballet" - a truly theatrical spectacle full of swirling costumes, exciting action, and a love story that took centre stage! I can only imagine how captivating it must have been to watch dancers enact the story of Cupid and Psyche - truly a tale fit for the stage!
The ballet was choreographed by the illustrious Pierre Gardel, one of the biggest names in dance at that time. Now, I'm sure he would have loved to see me in my pink tutu! The costume designs were by François-Simon L'Aîné - renowned for his artistry in both ballet and theatre. I can just picture him creating beautiful, flowing designs for this tale of love and magic. It truly was the era of extravagant and flamboyant costume design, so the Parisian audience would have been spoilt for choice!
After the ballet, we dined at a cosy restaurant with Parisian friends, sharing stories and indulging in a glass of bubbly, all while planning our next sartorial ballet escapade! This time, I even managed to snag a little ballet-related souvenir for my collection - a delicate, silk ribbon with a hand-painted rose, which now rests in my treasured rucksack.
Before I forget, darling! Did you know that this era in France was marked by the increasing popularity of ballet! I even hear whispers that it was the "Golden Age" of ballet in Paris. Now, just imagine how fascinating it must have been to watch these early ballet stars. They would have been considered true celebrities in their own time, gracing the stages with grace and athleticism. The stories from that era alone are enough to set my heart fluttering!
As we set off back to Derbyshire on Magic Meg, my head still spinning from all the exquisite ballets and the sights of Paris, I thought about what this all meant for our dear art form. Just imagine, all the change and evolution that would take place after the beautiful year 1791. Ballet became a form of expression, a tool to share stories and emotions - and to see the world through its enchanting lens.
As always, darling, remember to follow me on www.pink-tutu.com. Every month, I’ll be taking you to the world of ballet, one magical adventure at a time! Until then, do go on, spread a little pink tutu joy! I believe it's time we brought back that sparkle and vibrancy to the ballet world!
