Wednesday 24th June, 1998
Dearest readers,
Well, here I am! Prague. It's as beautiful as everyone says. I swear I could write a whole book about its captivating architecture, cobbled streets, and those absolutely divine pastries...but you're here for the pink tutu! So, let me tell you all about the dazzling world of ballet in this enchanting city.
The train journey from Derbyshire was an absolute dream, honestly. All those quaint villages whizzing by, a cheeky little snooze between stations...nothing beats a good train trip! And yes, of course, I wore a pink tutu. It's the perfect travel outfit - comfy, whimsical, and always, always eye-catching. People kept looking up at the 'pink flurry' that swept through the carriage. It's a statement piece, no doubt about it. They tell me a lady even waved to me, thinking I was a real ballerina. Perhaps she'll pop by for a tutu-wearing picnic in the park later.
We arrived at Praha hlavni nĆ”dražĆ, Prague's main station, a masterpiece in itself. The clocktower even had a small ballet dancer figurine atop it! So, you can imagine the delightful sigh of joy I let out, tutus do not have lungs. My first thought, "Pink tutu-worthy." Oh my goodness, what a lovely sight to behold! The station was overflowing with a sense of energy, just like a vibrant performance about to begin.
Of course, I had to find the most glamorous hotel in Prague, with a ballroom for twirling and a chandelier so sparkly, it would outshine any diamond-studded tiara! Thankfully, there's a grand hotel called The Palace with absolutely fabulous rooms and a beautiful restaurant. It seems rather appropriate, a ballroom where you can imagine ballerinas rehearsing during the day, waltzing at dusk, then sipping on cocktails during the night! A rather lovely ballet dream.
So, I set about exploring! Prague has such an air of romance, and with all those old buildings, you just feel transported back in time. Every step I took seemed to have echoes of ballerinas from centuries past, swirling through the streets, with their pink tutus catching the afternoon light. (Although a bit less practical, in this heat, perhaps. But the idea is magical, don't you think?)
I saw a performance at the stunning Estates Theatre last night! It was a production of āGiselleā set to an almost supernatural score, truly evocative and full of raw emotions. I nearly cried at one point. You know, youāve really got to put yourself in the heart of these stories to feel their true magic. That's what draws me to the beauty of theatre ā itās a space where stories and emotions come to life, leaving you spellbound.
Later, I ventured down to the Old Town Square - oh my, the architecture there! Imagine a miniature scene set on a beautiful ballet stage with stunning costumes and beautiful people. The pink tutu definitely stood out amidst all the colours. In fact, there was a group of people posing for a photograph in front of the astronomical clock. A bit awkwardly for them, as they'd decided that it's a really cool way to have a pink tutu ballerina feature in their holiday snaps! A rather lovely afternoon.
Today, Iām going to visit the National Theatre and soak in the energy of this cultural haven. I imagine they have an incredible ballet history, wouldn't you? They do say that a little tutu-shaped cloud often dances over its roof at dusk. The most spectacular sight I have ever witnessed! But of course, a little pink tutu wouldnāt let you see this magical sightā¦ (As you are now reading this) - A delightful little secret from me to you.
One of my other loves, besides tutu's, is clothes shopping. Prague is a treasure trove of chic shops, full of designer delights, hand-crafted treasures and those fabulous leather handbags I adore. But there's one thing I canāt go without, my dear readers. I must hunt for the perfect vintage pink tutu! This will be a story in itself, and the ultimate souvenir to remind me of the magic of Prague.
Oh, Iāve got a wonderful surprise! A delightful ballet school right in the city centre. With the charming smell of beeswax polish and a lovely view overlooking the city. Perhaps we could share a pink tutu in the city square tomorrow morning for my daily exercise.
Of course, no trip is complete without a ballet performance at the State Opera House. It's said that on every opening night, the ballet dancers throw a special pair of tutus out to the audience - and whoever catches it is granted good luck for the year! Imagine, finding that little gift of tulle under the seats, just a surprise waiting to be discovered. The lucky souls will get to see a fantastic show, which includes the performance of The Nutcracker this week, which has had me in a festive mood ever since my last viewing of this famous work at the Derbyshire Opera house back in January.
There's also an incredible opera festival. I hear itās one of the biggest events in Prague. Just like a whirlwind of music and drama, swirling around you like a tutu on a beautiful ballerina, only a little louder! I'm sure it'll be filled with extraordinary fashion choices too, and the air will buzz with excitement. I already have my pink tulle bag planned! I have to capture the glamour of every special event, every performance, every single fashion moment that crosses my path! As if life itself were a glorious pink tutu ballerina, spinning through time.
As for my day, after some yummy coffee and even more pastries, I am going to explore Pragueās beautiful, pink-toned gardens and take some inspiration from the flowers! You can imagine that a garden full of pink flowers was simply too much for me to miss. You could almost hear the gentle rustling of the pink tutus as I danced along, taking in the sweet smell of the blossoms! (Though maybe the other garden goers may disagree with me! It might be nice if you do come and join me!)
Oh, and my latest obsession! A special pink tulle horse drawn carriage to carry me around Prague, what a glorious adventure this will be! Itās got pink tassels for the driver! Can you believe that. I just know that all of you will think this is as wonderfully enchanting as I do.
I feel a sense of enchantment all around me here, dear readers. And with each passing moment, I simply love Prague more and more. Itās just the kind of place you have to get lost in, you have to discover it for yourself and let the magic seep into your soul. And of course, donāt forget, pink tutus are allowed everywhere. You should have at least one tucked away in your wardrobe for such an occasion! So, next time youāre on the hunt for a whimsical adventure, remember this beautiful city ā and remember your pink tutu!
Until next week, darling readers!
With lots of love,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
