Wednesday, 27th May 1998
Oh, my darling tutu-lovers! The sun is shining brighter than a prima ballerina's smile in Prague, and I'm practically hopping with excitement. Today, we're waltzing through cobblestone streets, exploring enchanting castles, and indulging in the most exquisite shopping – all whilst wearing a vibrant pink tutu, of course! After all, a girl's gotta feel her best whilst exploring one of Europe's most beautiful cities.
Remember that feeling you get when you're about to open a carefully wrapped present? That's exactly how I feel about every adventure, especially when it comes to travelling by train. The rhythmic clatter, the steam billowing from the engine, the hushed chatter of fellow travellers – it all feels like a secret symphony, perfectly accompanying the swish of my pink tutu.
And let's not forget the journey by pony! Yes, my darlings, we rode through the stunning Bohemian countryside on the backs of the most elegant creatures – just like princesses! With the wind tousling my hair and the sun warming my skin, I swear I could practically feel the power of a hundred tutus swirling around me!
Prague is truly a sight to behold. The medieval architecture is like a fairytale brought to life – spires piercing the sky, quaint cobbled lanes winding through enchanting gardens. Even the air seems to sparkle with a hint of magic, and it's no surprise that the city has become a haven for artists, musicians, and, yes, even ballet enthusiasts!
The Grand Opera House
I was fortunate to spend last night at the exquisite Grand Opera House, which truly feels like a portal to another era. The sheer opulence of the auditorium with its crimson velvet seats and glittering chandeliers transported me back to the golden age of ballet. I simply can't resist a good dose of ballet history, my darlings!
This evening, we have tickets to a spectacular performance by the Czech National Ballet, and I'm simply bubbling with anticipation. I just know it'll be utterly enchanting, filled with graceful leaps, poignant gestures, and, of course, a kaleidoscope of beautiful costumes – a feast for the eyes, if ever there was one!
Tutu Shopping Spree!
Now, every trip needs a touch of fashion and, my darling tutu lovers, let me tell you, Prague has stolen my heart! From designer boutiques in Old Town Square to hidden treasures tucked away in charming side streets, the city's fashion scene is positively blooming with exquisite fabrics and captivating creations. I couldn't resist picking up a couple of adorable accessories: a stunning blush pink headband with delicate beading and a feather boa to match my tutu – perfect for twirling in the enchanting gardens of the city.
My Pink Tutu Manifesto
As always, my mission is to spread the gospel of pink tutus! Let's face it, life is too short for dreary colours and plain clothing. Embrace the playful, the elegant, the expressive side of fashion – with a touch of magic in every step!
If you're ever in doubt, simply remember my mantra: "The world needs more pink tutus!" I know you can feel it in your heart, my darling tutu-lovers! It's time to ditch those dreary jeans and step into a world of grace and whimsy – one tutu-ful step at a time!
Stay tuned for more updates on my Prague adventures, darling readers, and let's make the world a more tutu-tastic place together!
Love and tutu-ful wishes, Emma
P.S. Be sure to visit www.pink-tutu.com every Wednesday for my latest Prague updates! And, remember, you can join my Pink Tutu Movement by sharing your own tutu-licious photos and stories using the hashtag #PinkTutuPrague! Let's spread the joy and beauty of tutus throughout the world, together! 🩰💕💖✨
P.P.S. Just a quick reminder, my sweet readers! All my adventures, from the magnificent train journeys to the enchanting ballet performances and even my wardrobe full of magnificent tutus, are funded through the love and generosity of you all – my dear followers, supporters, and ballet aficionados. Every ticket sale for my own ballet performances and every heartfelt message keeps me dancing! So, from the bottom of my pink tutu-filled heart, thank you!
P.P.P.S. For those of you who adore the romantic world of tutus, here's a little snippet about the fascinating history of the tutu – the evolution of this magical garment from its origins in the French courts to its captivating place in modern dance:
The Tutu’s Romantic Origins:
The history of the tutu is as elegant and charming as a delicate dance on pointe. The tutu originated in 1839, when ballet choreographer Marius Petipa gave dancer Marie Taglioni a costume designed by Carl Friedrich. Taglioni wore the first tutu at a Paris Opera Ballet, which she graced with lightness, agility, and airiness in the title role of La Sylphide. This performance ushered in the Romantic ballet era, which emphasized ethereal movement and grace.
Petipa's design marked a departure from the restrictive, full-length skirts ballet dancers wore in the late 18th century. It consisted of a short, bell-shaped, airy, diaphanous skirt (from the Italian ‘tutu’ meaning 'tu-tu') worn over tights. This dramatic change not only visually enhanced a dancer's movements but allowed for greater freedom and range of motion, thus shaping ballet as we know it.
From these romantic beginnings, the tutu’s shape continued to evolve. The Romantic tutu became longer in the 1840s, as dancers, with the added freedom provided by the newly invented pointe shoes, sought to heighten the feeling of verticality and grace in the ballet. However, the tutu remained airy and loose. It still enabled the ballerina to express fluid movements with an ethereal elegance, befitting of the fairy-like characters that began to appear on the ballet stage in these decades.
The Romantic tutu of this era is known for its layers of white fabric and graceful lines – often referred to as a “bell” tutu or “bouffant” tutu – reminiscent of an Elizabethan dress and showcasing the grace of dancers on pointe. These tutus created a delicate air around the dancer’s frame. These magnificent and enchanting tutus, which appear as elegant silhouettes of tulle on the ballet stage, are the stuff of our childhood ballet dreams – dreams of grace, wonder, and pure expression. And of course, pink tutus, darling, pink tutus are our very favorite!
Do keep an eye on my blog for more tutu insights! Emma
P.P.P.P.S Now, don’t think I’m neglecting all those ballet and music events while I'm gallivanting about! Tonight is May 27th, and let’s be honest, there is always so much to enjoy at this time of year!
In London, for example, you could take in a live performance of "Don Giovanni" by Mozart at the Royal Opera House!
- For you fellow theatre lovers in London, you could be enjoying the captivating “Twelfth Night or What You Will” by Shakespeare!
- And for any ballet aficionados out there, The Royal Ballet is bringing us “Mayerling,” which premiered on this very date 45 years ago!
There is truly something for everyone to enjoy and to make the most of this magical world of ballet and musical delights. Remember to take some time out and make every performance feel like an adventure!
Now, off to enjoy this extraordinary city with my beloved pink tutu in tow, my dear friends! Stay tuned for my next adventure!
Until next Wednesday, tutu lovers!
Emma
