#129
Wednesday, 15th October 1997
Bonjour mes chers amis, and welcome to another installment of Pink Tutu Travels! This week I'm bursting with excitement, because today, dear readers, I'm in Prague! I know, I know, the name alone is practically a symphony of romance, and Prague itself certainly didn't disappoint. This city is practically overflowing with old-world charm, cobbled streets that whisper with forgotten secrets, and, most importantly, a rich and vibrant history of ballet!
For the last two days, I've been happily flitting about the city like a whimsical butterfly, exploring its magical hidden corners and letting my tutu swish through every cobbled lane and picturesque park.
And what better way to embrace the magical essence of this city than with a grand night at the Prague National Theatre! Oh, the anticipation! The theatre itself is a dazzling beauty - all soaring arches, majestic columns and shimmering chandeliers. It's like stepping back in time to the Golden Age of ballet!
Before the show, I had to find the perfect outfit. Prague has this delightful air of vintage style about it, and I couldn't resist stepping into a charming little vintage shop where I unearthed a delightful pale pink, ruffled blouse (perfect for my tutu!). And the perfect finishing touch? My pink leather, rose-patterned ballet shoes! Now, I admit, wearing pink ballet shoes to the ballet can be considered a bit daring - they do attract quite a bit of attention - but honestly, who wants to be invisible in a city this enchanting?
The programme for this evening was La Bohème. As the lights dimmed and the music filled the air, the entire theatre came alive with a hushed excitement. The story unfolded beautifully, and it was like every scene was a carefully painted watercolour, capturing the essence of both the poignant drama and the passionate romance.
I admit, I did have a minor crisis in the first act - there were quite a few "strong" scenes (which, if we're being honest, might make even the most seasoned ballerina shed a tear). But let's just say I channeled all those emotions into an extraordinary swirling pirouette during the first intermission, leaving a little bit of my pink tutu magic all over the lobby!
Now, about Prague:
The Food: My dear readers, brace yourselves. Prague has the most wonderful culinary treasures! For one, "Trdelník"! This gorgeous cinnamon-swirled doughy treat is absolutely essential to any Prague visit - and definitely needs to be devoured with an ice cream topping! Of course, the goulash was a delicious and comforting classic. But let's be honest, what really stole the show were the fluffy cakes, pastries and coffee concoctions I found hiding in cosy little cafés on almost every corner! A must-try is "Kuba".
The Travel:
To get here, I boarded a beautiful train journey in Derbyshire, England, and settled down with a steaming mug of Earl Grey and a good book. (Don't be fooled, my readers, travelling with my trusty travel tutu requires a certain amount of strategy, it needs careful folding - it's more art than science). Then, after a comfortable journey through Europe, I arrived in Prague.
And because Prague is such a charming little city, I couldn't resist renting a pony - he's a delightful ginger pony named Prince Charming - for a jaunty tour of the city! I must say, pony rides are the ultimate way to explore a new city. They are also a truly remarkable way to channel the elegance and beauty of ballet as you clip clop through cobbled streets.
The Shopping:
Oh, the shops in Prague! It's an absolute dream for a tutu-loving, pink-obsessed fashionista! There's a little vintage boutique called "The Pink Swan" - how fitting, right? - where I found a truly breathtaking pair of pink silk gloves (which, I confess, will need to be cleaned before wearing with a pink tutu)! And don't even get me started on the hand-painted silk scarfs and floral prints... A shopping frenzy worthy of even the most determined ballerina!
Ballet Inspirations:
While walking through the Old Town Square, I saw the magnificent statue of Jan Hus - a fiery historical figure who fought for religious reform. As I gazed up at his courageous stance, a sudden flash of inspiration hit me. It was like I could see the grace and strength of a ballerina, a reflection of her unwavering belief and relentless determination!
The Magic of Prague:
Let me tell you, there's something magical in the air here. Prague seems to have an almost magical essence that permeates every alley, every corner, every whisper of the wind. Perhaps it's the rich history, perhaps it's the enchanting architecture, or maybe, just maybe, it's a sprinkle of that elusive tutu magic that I try to bring to every corner of the world.
Whatever it is, Prague has cast its spell, leaving me breathless and filled with wonder!
Until next week, darling readers, let your spirits twirl, your tutus shine, and remember to always follow the beat of your own, pink, hearts.
Lots of love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
