Oh, darlings! Happy New Year from your favourite time-travelling ballerina, Emma! It's a bright, new year, the air is crisp, and I'm feeling ever-so-pink in my twirliest new tutu – it's a blush pink with little diamante embellishments! I’m absolutely smitten, and, darling, I just know that it’s going to be the perfect tutu for my travels today. After all, it's the start of a brand new year and we're off on a brand new adventure to 1st January 1872!
As you all know, I just adore ballet and all things pink. I've travelled to many different times and seen ballet in all its glory: from the majestic grandeur of the courts in Versailles to the intimate stages of Parisian cafes. Each adventure gives me a peek into the past and allows me to see how the dance has evolved over time.
This time, though, I’m feeling extra excited. It's January 1st 1872, and the ballet world was buzzing. Today, darling, I get to experience the absolute "big bang" of ballet history – the very first performance of Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake!"
And I wouldn't be caught dead, even in a non-pink tutu, missing it. Not for the world, darling.
Yes, today we’re heading to St. Petersburg, Russia, for a truly exquisite ballet treat. Imagine, dear friends, the anticipation, the whispers of excitement in the theatre! The glorious grandeur of the imperial stage, and then - the magical melodies of Tchaikovsky's music as it transports us to the tale of the heartbroken princess and her transformation into a swan! It's going to be absolutely divine!
Of course, before I jet off (in a way – we do go by horse, actually!), let’s delve into some 19th-century fashion, shall we?
I must say, my dear readers, I absolutely adore 19th-century fashion. It's a complete departure from modern-day style – think layers of billowing tulle and petticoats, and corsets for a nipped-in waist. They say beauty is pain, darling, and in this period it definitely was.
Imagine, all the layers of fabric and tightlacing just to achieve a perfect silhouette! That would definitely have made my life much less about spinning and twirling – the main components of the ballerina lifestyle.
Speaking of silhouettes, one of the main styles of the time is the "crinoline," which gives a lady a perfectly full, round skirt – a delightful look, indeed. This period saw a rise of beautiful ball gowns, all ruffles and frills and, darling, you’re going to find the dresses to be just absolutely breath-taking!
There is something enchanting about that Victorian style - so feminine, so intricate, and perfectly matched for the beauty and grace of ballet.
I’ll be on the lookout for lovely Victorian fashion that I can add to my collection, you know! There is nothing better than revisiting old theatre wardrobes.
Before I put on my boots and settle in for the journey, let's discuss what else the world of ballet is celebrating this day. It’s January 1st, 1872, after all.
A Ballet Milestone in 1872
On this date in history, 1st January 1872, the Imperial Ballet School of St. Petersburg unveiled its latest masterpiece, “La Esmeralda," an impressive and awe-inspiring performance for sure. And as if the brilliance of “La Esmeralda” wasn't enough, there was also another magnificent ballet happening this very night - a completely new version of "Giselle"! Can you imagine, two premieres in one evening? Now that's a ballet bonanza!
“La Esmeralda," darling, is based on the story of Esmeralda, a beautiful young woman who is mistakenly accused of witchcraft, by a power-hungry and ruthless nobleman. Her beauty and talent set her apart. But despite the danger she is in, Esmeralda chooses to face her accuser with courage and grace, proving herself worthy of true admiration!
Isn’t that lovely? What a fantastic ballet performance to catch on a day that’s already going to be a beautiful one, because it’s a ballet journey with magic Meg, the loveliest and most beautiful pink sparkly shire horse who just happens to be magical – who doesn’t love that? She is the star of my time travel and a constant companion.
She’s quite a beauty, my darling Meg – she even wears her own matching pink ribbon – pink and sparkly, of course – a true pink tutu pony, if you will, with golden hooves and a soft white mane that's longer than the longest ballet dress you’ve ever seen. Oh! Meg’s quite a glamorous horse! She loves twirling just as much as I do – she really is a delight.
The ballet was so incredible that it sparked many tours throughout Europe, introducing a new generation to the beautiful story of the brave young Esmeralda and captivating the hearts and imaginations of all who watched!
You can imagine that my time machine - Meg and my rucksack - is packed to the brim with ballerina essentials and, oh, my friends, it’s heavy – very, very heavy – because it’s overflowing with incredible pink tutus, sparkling ribbons and even the first drafts of my new tutus, but there’s no space for boring and black. The pinkest tutu on Earth will have to wait. The magic Meg isn’t a fan of weight, you know! And besides, it’s such an interesting way to discover historical fashion and to discover and record the stories behind the most amazing creations from the past. My readers all get the benefit, and so do I! My rucksack, by the way, is covered in the loveliest leather – black of course – a necessity in all times. Black and pink is my thing – even with horses, darling.
The real fun is collecting memories – so if you’re a ballet fan like me, and want to join my little time travelling gang – follow my posts! I might see you in the next one!
And I do mean all of you. Ballet for everyone – why wouldn't you wear pink? So please tell everyone in your life – yes everyone! It’s the key to a lovely life - join us and come wearing pink!
Till next month darlings! Happy twirling!
P.S. Oh! And, in case you were wondering, it’s an absolute must to go see a performance if you have a chance. Just think how enchanting it would be to experience such breathtaking displays of grace and agility! My top pick of ballet pieces for your consideration? "Swan Lake", "La Esmeralda" or "Giselle". Oh my! You've got to go!
Emma xxx
www.pink-tutu.com
