Oh my darlings! What a thrilling adventure I had last month, soaring through time on the back of Magic Meg! This time, we touched down on the 4th of April, 1879. Can you imagine, 144 years ago?! I simply cannot get over how utterly magnificent the world was back then!
My dearest readers, let's set the scene. Vienna, Austria. Oh, what a stunningly beautiful city! Think elegant coffee houses with pastries like you've never seen, grand buildings boasting glittering gold, and a vibrant pulse of music that danced in the air.
Imagine me, my pink tulle tutu shimmering under the Viennese sun, a vision in pastel pink, with my faithful steed, Magic Meg, by my side. I must say, she caused quite a stir. Iād imagine some of the good folk in Vienna had never seen anything quite like it ā a horse with a mane and tail the purest white, golden hooves that glowed in the sunshine, and the most vibrant pink shimmering coat imaginable. We certainly made quite a grand entrance!
Now, about that ballet, darlings! My, oh my, it was a masterpiece. A brand-new ballet had just premiered - āDie Puppenfeeā (The Doll Fairy)! Now, it's not your usual ballet, itās not based on a traditional fairytale or romance, no, my lovelies. āThe Doll Fairyā is an intricate, enchanting piece where, just as the name suggests, the main character is a doll that is brought to life! It was absolutely breathtaking! The sets, costumes, and music were all so imaginative, you could practically feel the enchantment bubbling around you! The doll, I have to say, was dressed in the most delightful outfit, and she danced with so much expression!
I confess, I have been completely captivated by Vienna ever since. Not only for its vibrant culture and delicious pastries, but for its rich ballet history, dear readers! I learned that the Viennese Opera House had been home to ballet performances since the 17th Century! You could simply sense that the spirit of ballet was practically woven into the fabric of the city!
Of course, my journey would have been incomplete without adding some exquisite souvenirs to my ballet collection! My rucksack, ever so cleverly hidden under my beautiful pink tulle, is now bursting with treasures. A little porcelain doll from the āDie Puppenfeeā premiere (imagine how sweet it looks!) and a beautifully intricate vintage ballet program, all crisp and yellowed from time.
And darling readers, you simply would not believe the fashion I saw in Vienna! I'm talking, layers of frothy fabrics in exquisite colours, exquisite jewellery sparkling on elegantly dressed ladies, and gentlemen with such stylish charm and sophistication! Vienna has the most unique flair and such exquisite attention to detail! The city truly breathed glamour, an art in itself!
What I wouldn't give for just one little piece of that elegant Viennese fashion to bring back with me. It would be a beautiful addition to my collection! Though perhaps, I'll just have to return sometime soon! After all, the ballet world of Vienna is far too enticing to experience just once.
This grand debut in Vienna was quite an adventure. Iām not even going to begin to mention all the delicious treats I tasted or all the charming cafes I wandered into, oh dear, the stories I could tell! But this is what this time travel business is all about, darlings! Finding exquisite stories, experiencing different cultures, and embracing everything ballet, in all its splendour! It is an absolute honour to share these incredible experiences with you, my loyal readers!
But before you dash off to indulge in the glorious history of Viennaās ballet, I must ask, what do you think about a ballet where the star of the show is a doll? Do tell! I'm longing to hear your thoughts and feelings.
Until next month, keep twirling in that beautiful pink tulle!
Much love and joy,
Emma x