Hello my darlings! Emma here, your very own Pink Tutu princess, reporting live from the magical city of Prague! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another instalment of my weekly blog, straight from the heart of Europe!
I'm on a mission, you see. To make the world a more pink and twirly place, one tutu at a time! And where better to embark on such a glorious journey than in the heart of Prague, a city brimming with history, art, and yes, you guessed it, beautiful ballet performances!
This week has been an absolute whirlwind of pink and tulle. I arrived in Prague on a rickety, charming train from Dresden - just picture it, my luscious pink tutu billowing out the window, hair whipping in the breeze, the conductor smiling approvingly (I might have bribed him with some extra chocolate, the sweet soul!) and I was immediately whisked away by the cobbled streets and charming cafes of Prague's Old Town.
My week kicked off with an incredible ballet class at a beautiful studio just a stone's throw from the Charles Bridge. Let me tell you, Prague dancers have incredible stamina! The instructor, a man with a gruff but gentle voice, pushed us to our limits, and it was such a wonderful workout. The studio itself was a haven, a little world of light, music, and dance, with sunlight streaming in through the windows, casting dancing shadows on the floor. I left feeling energised, invigorated, and ready to tackle the rest of my Prague adventures!
Speaking of adventures, I must tell you about the glorious street performance I stumbled upon. It was just outside the National Theatre, a captivating blend of contemporary dance and traditional folklore. Imagine, my dears, an incredible fusion of vibrant costumes and impressive choreography. It felt so intimate, so raw and emotional - the dancer's movements telling their story through their bodies, weaving their emotions into the very air.
And speaking of Prague's artistic heart, I was completely enchanted by the National Theatre itself. This magnificent building, bathed in the warm glow of Prague's evening lights, stood tall and proud, like a fairytale castle. And within its walls, hidden away from the bustling city streets, lay a whole world of artistry, waiting to be discovered. I'm planning to catch a ballet performance there soon, so stay tuned for that review!
Now, what would a trip to Prague be without a spot of shopping, right? Prague is a wonderland of charming boutiques, vintage stores and markets brimming with unique trinkets and treasures. I even found the most darling shop full of vintage tutus and dance shoes - absolute bliss! My shopping bag was full of new ribbons and colourful accessories, and let's not forget the adorable pink tutu I found that will make my Prague ballet class even more delightful!
Did you know:
The story of the tutu itself is as fascinating as a ballet performance!
The first tutus were not the full-blown poufy marvels we know and love today.
Early 19th-century ballerinas were swathed in layers and layers of tulle and crinoline, creating a bell-shaped silhouette that allowed for limited movement.
Then came the groundbreaking Romantic era.
Ballerinas like Marie Taglioni longed to express freedom and grace, so shorter, more revealing tutus were born.
The full-length, fluffy tutus we adore today emerged later, made famous by the Russian Imperial Ballet in the early 20th century.
So next time you wear a tutu, remember, it's a story of history, grace, and sheer artistry - and that's what makes it truly magical.
Oh, and another exciting thing! Did you know that on 17 September, we celebrate International Tutu Day - it's dedicated to the ballerina's quintessential attire!
You can bet I'll be sporting a sparkly new pink tutu in celebration. Will you be celebrating with me?
I must share some insider information with you, my fellow pink tutu lovers! Today, 17 September, is International Tutu Day - so it's the perfect day to put on your fluffiest pink tutu and twirl with abandon. (Let's get everyone in a tutu!) Don't worry if you don't have one - just pick the pinkiest, most whimsical outfit you have and channel your inner ballerina!
How to Celebrate International Tutu Day?
Twirl with Confidence! It's not about perfect technique. Just let your inner ballerina shine!
Capture your Tutu Moment! A photo is a perfect memory! Be it in a beautiful park, in front of your favourite landmarks, or just in your own home, the joy is all the same!
Share your Joy! Spread the pink and twirling magic with your friends, your loved ones, and the whole world!
So go on, put on your prettiest pink and spin, leap, and twirl your way through your day! Make sure you tag your posts with #PinkTutuPrague! I can't wait to see your pics!
Next week I'll be sharing my thoughts on Prague's magical theatre scene and, of course, all the wonderful things I've seen and explored, so be sure to check back then. And, for those of you who have been longing for more of a pink tutu experience - a very special workshop is happening in Prague next month, where I'll be sharing my love of ballet, tutus, and everything in between! More details coming soon on www.pink-tutu.com - so watch this space, my darlings!
Until next Wednesday,
Lots of pink twirls and hugs,
Emma
P.S. Don't forget to follow my journey on social media. I'm posting stories every day! I love sharing pictures of my outfits and all the beautiful ballet spots I visit! Just search for Pink Tutu on your favourite platform and let's keep the pink-tutu magic alive!
