Hello, my darling dears! It's Emma, your resident pink tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed adventurer, reporting live from the enchanting city of Prague! I've arrived just in time for a delightful cultural adventure, and of course, my trusty pink tutu has made the journey with me. (Isn't it lovely that tutus can go anywhere?)
This week, on my www.pink-tutu.com blog, I'm spilling all the magical secrets of Prague. It's been a whirlwind of enchanting castles, cobblestone streets, and, of course, ballet, ballet, ballet!
I arrived on Wednesday, 26th February, 1997, after a wonderfully scenic train ride across Europe. (Isn't train travel the perfect way to truly soak in the scenery?) I know some might consider this a bit unconventional, but the journey really got my creative juices flowing. As the countryside whizzed past, I found myself dreaming up choreography for a new ballet piece inspired by the rolling hills, quaint villages, and grand, sweeping architecture that surrounded me. Who knows, maybe you'll see this ballet piece performed by my dance company one day!
But let's get back to the city, darling. The moment I stepped off the train and into Prague's Old Town Square, I knew this was going to be a truly special trip. The historic buildings were practically glowing in the setting sun, the air filled with the chatter of locals and tourists alike, and the streets were adorned with charming cafes and boutiques, just waiting to be explored. It was a feast for the senses!
After checking into my hotel (a darling little boutique place just steps away from the Vltava River!), I couldn't resist indulging in a spot of window shopping. It wouldn't be a pink tutu blog without a bit of fashion talk, would it? Oh, my dears, the shops in Prague are brimming with unique treasures! I picked up a few little souvenirs - some delicate lace doilies for my apartment, a beautiful porcelain figurine for my mantelpiece, and, of course, a few irresistible scarves to add to my growing collection!
Speaking of growing collections, you'll never believe who I spotted while out on my shopping spree... the most fabulous fashionista dressed head-to-toe in a glorious shade of emerald green, topped off with a gorgeous, full-bodied emerald feather boa! We even managed a quick chat and a photo-op together. She was a vision, a total dream! Oh, if only I had thought to bring a pair of green tutus! Maybe next time, darling!
Anyway, with a new appreciation for Prague's fashionable side, I was ready to see what the evening held. This city is famous for its vibrant theatre scene, so naturally, I was eager to catch a show. I landed tickets for a breathtaking production of Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake" at the beautiful National Theatre. Oh, my dears, the performance was magical!
The set design was exquisite, the orchestra played with such passion and energy, and the dancers were absolutely phenomenal! Their movements were so fluid and graceful, their leaps and turns so effortless, it was like watching a dream unfold before my very eyes.
I couldn't help but feel a pang of envy, a bit of the 'I wish I could be on stage' feeling. The dancer who played the White Swan was truly magical! Such effortless beauty. (I should probably start looking into a professional ballet career, shouldn't I?)
The entire experience was so enchanting, I swear I even heard a few fairy dust sprinkles as the curtain came down. Truly a performance I'll never forget.
The next day was for exploring Prague's captivating history. A gentle, spirited pony took me to Prague Castle. I truly felt like a princess transported through time. Oh, Prague! This magnificent castle, perched high above the city, is an absolute must-see. Imagine, the history it holds! I'm not just talking about grand architecture and royal stories, darlings, but a whole fascinating tapestry of ballet history too! Can you believe they used to have ballet performances in the castle halls during the reign of King Wenceslas IV? Now, THAT's what I call a glamorous night out.
Later, I wandered the cobbled streets, the atmosphere just magical with the sounds of street musicians, laughter, and the scent of local pastries. Oh, I just love the little side streets that seem to pop up out of nowhere! They are full of shops that make my inner child scream with glee.
I snagged a darling vintage tapestry in a shop, its colours are just a tad muted, but in my mind I saw its new life hanging in a room filled with my beautiful pink tutu collection. (Isn't it magical what a little bit of imagination can do?) It really fits the whole vintage, Parisian-esque look I'm going for. Prague definitely knows how to deliver when it comes to treasures!
One of the highlights of the day, though, had to be the visit to the Prague Ballet Conservatory. Oh, darling, it was a ballet lover's dream! I was transported right back to my childhood ballet classes, complete with barres, mirrors, and young ballerinas practicing their arabesques and pirouettes. (Did you know Prague has some of the best ballet schools in the world? It's just so inspiring to be in such a talented city!). Of course, I had to indulge in a little impromptu practice in one of the studios. Can you imagine, a ballet masterclass at the Prague Conservatory? What a day that would be!
There are still so many places I want to see in Prague! But as always, there are some ballet performances I just can't miss! You see, that's the amazing thing about traveling – each city has a story, and each story is waiting to be discovered, sometimes it even happens to be about tutus! You never know what you'll stumble upon, and who knows? Perhaps you'll discover a hidden gem of your own.
Next week, darling, I'll tell you all about my next adventure here in Prague.
Until then, I bid you adieu, darling dears! Remember, keep your heads held high, your hearts filled with joy, and embrace the magical world of pink tutus, one step at a time!
Love, Emma (The Pink Tutu Queen)
