Hello, my darling dance devotees! It's Emma, your favourite pink-tutu-clad globetrotter, writing to you from the heart of Prague, a city that's stolen my heart (and a good few Czech crowns!)
As always, I'm following my guiding star – the promise of breathtaking ballet and dazzling fashion. And trust me, Prague is delivering in spades! It's been an absolute whirlwind of tutus and cobblestones, and I wouldn't have it any other way!
This week, I'm diving into the captivating history of ballet in this magnificent city. You might think the Prague ballet scene is a more recent phenomenon, but believe me, the story starts way, way back – with an adorable twist that you're going to absolutely adore.
A Waltz Through History: Ballet's Prague Roots
Step back in time with me, darlings, to the early 1600s. That's right, we're talking Renaissance-era Bohemia, where music was as vibrant as the tapestries hanging in the opulent halls of the noble families. You can practically hear the melodies swirling around the castles and squares.
Now, this is where the magic of dance steps onto the stage (literally, as the word stage had only recently made its debut in Europe!). Imagine a grand castle hall, its ceiling decorated with glittering chandeliers, as a group of men – yes, men, darling! – strut their stuff in their finest silks and pantaloons, twirling around in graceful figures that were as flamboyant as their embroidered doublet jackets.
And Guess Who Took The Lead?
Women! That's right, my dears, these courtly dances – precursor to what we know as ballet – weren’t strictly a boys' club. Bohemian women stepped onto the scene (in those gorgeous long, flowing gowns that were the epitome of fashionable elegance, mind you!), bringing their grace and talent to the intricate dance forms. This wasn't just about looking pretty; these courtly ladies were real dancers!
Jumping into Prague’s Tutu Scene
And it doesn't end there, my dears! In the 18th and 19th centuries, the stage in Prague really took off. As theatre spaces like the Estates Theatre and the National Theatre began flourishing, so too did ballet. It was a glorious period for ballerinas! Imagine elegant costumes shimmering under gaslights as they twirled on stage. It wasn’t only the grandeur of the performances, it was also the innovative ballets, the choreography. Prague was really pushing the boundaries, challenging expectations. The tutu began making an appearance!
And the Stars They Did Align… for my Trip to Prague
I’ve made it to Prague at just the right time to experience this rich ballet heritage in all its glory. Just like a ballerina landing on her pointe shoes, I have landed in the midst of the National Theatre Ballet’s exciting season! They’ve been on fire, bringing ballet masterpieces to life for audiences of all ages (and tutus!),
August 11th?
Right here, right now! Tonight, I'll be catching one of the absolute highlights of the season – "Sleeping Beauty" by Tchaikovsky! Can you imagine my pink tutu glittering amongst all the magic? It's almost as magical as the stories told on the stage!
I'll tell you all about it in my next post! But before I dash off, I want to show you the must-see spots for tutu-lovers, like me:
Dancing in Prague
The National Theatre: The grand dame of Prague theatre, built on the bank of the Vltava river. You could see some wonderful ballets, plus its magnificent architecture.
The Estates Theatre: History buffs! This is where Mozart's "Don Giovanni" premiered! You’ve gotta catch a ballet show in a theatre with so much history!
The Opera House: The epitome of glamorous sophistication. This gorgeous house showcases some of the best international ballet performances (with, of course, a very chic audience!).
Tutu-fying Your Prague Trip: A Personal Pink-Tutu Paradise Itinerary
The Charles Bridge: It’s all about the views, darling! But if you have time for a stroll in the morning or a romantic walk at sunset – do it. I will be strutting my pink tutu on the Charles Bridge – my favourite spot!
Prague Castle: Imagine a ballet show in those majestic halls! The view is incredible, the architecture spectacular! It is one of Prague’s top sights. If you go, keep your eye out for some charming stores, too!
The Old Town Square: Imagine a scene straight out of a storybook: a cobblestone square bustling with street performers (maybe even ballet!) And don’t forget about those breathtaking architectural masterpieces surrounding you.
My Tutu Travel Tips
- Pack a sparkly tutu to stand out. If you love fashion as much as I do, pack for every occasion! Prague is a fantastic place to showcase your style – the more sparkles, the better!
- Remember to keep a travel diary! And a fabulous ballet outfit for when you hit the National Theatre.
- Indulge in local treats – especially if they're pink. Like their famous Czech cookies, the Lebküchner (think a gingerbread biscuit, but with a fabulously feminine twist).
Prague has charmed me. As always, I’ve been shopping! And this city is like a little fairytale wonderland – all ornate buildings, sparkling rivers, and breathtaking views. If I could fit my favourite tutu on my suitcase, it would have been a pink explosion of feathers, sequins, and everything sparkly!
I'm already planning my next adventure. Perhaps something exciting awaits in Vienna? Until then,
Keep twirling!
Your dearest pink-tutu-clad friend,
Emma.
