#PinkTutuPrague Ballet in Prague 1999-09-29

Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, back from the cobbled streets of Prague with a suitcase bursting with pink delights. Yes, that's right, your girl is back in her element, having traversed the charming heart of this magical city in a flurry of tulle and sequins.

This week, I wanted to take you on a little trip with me – a trip through Prague's enchanting squares and artistic avenues, peppered with tutus, of course! I've been spending the past week indulging in the culture of this magnificent city, sipping cappuccino in quaint cafes, losing myself in art galleries, and most importantly, discovering the treasures of Prague's thriving ballet scene.

For the past few weeks, my life has been a whirlwind of rehearsals, fundraising performances, and finally, the grand unveiling of my new tour outfit - a dazzling pink tutu, dripping with diamantes, crafted with love by my favourite seamstress, Miss Poppy. This beauty was my ticket to Prague! You wouldn't believe the compliments I received in the train station – a perfect start to a perfect trip!

Before we delve into the Czech ballet, let's talk about my journey. Remember, this was my first time travelling to Prague. I always prefer train travel, especially when I'm donning a magnificent tutu - far too glamorous for Ryanair's cramped aisles! As we rolled through the European countryside, the scenery was an absolute feast for the eyes - verdant fields stretching endlessly, quaint villages dotting the horizon, and the sun catching the windmills like little dancers in the breeze. And me? Well, I simply embraced the journey, lost in a ballet of my own invention, spinning with the wind in my tulle as we clicked our way across the continent.

And what about my trusty travel companion? Well, you all know that I'm a big fan of horse riding, and luckily, I had the opportunity to ride a magnificent chestnut pony named Poppy, (the name seems to follow me!) from Derby station right to the platform! Now, it was not the most orthodox of travel methods, but who needs a cab when you've got a pony named after your seamstress? And Poppy certainly knows how to work a grand entrance – the horses of the train station were quite mesmerized, I must say.

Arriving in Prague, I found my little slice of pink heaven – a hotel nestled in a quiet cobblestone courtyard. Forget dreary, generic hotel rooms, my darlings! I had myself a little fairytale haven - lace curtains, gilded mirrors, and even a clawfoot bathtub. I truly believe in surrounding yourself with beauty, and Prague was brimming with it. And yes, there were of course, several pink items – some antique furniture with pink rose paint, a pink velvet throw and a stack of books with gorgeous pink dust jackets – every day, it felt like a ballet performance in my own private haven!

I simply couldn't resist having my first Prague photo shoot here. The hotel lobby provided the perfect setting with its exquisite chandeliers and elegant staircases – perfect for twirling, don't you think? And what else does a true fashionista pack in her suitcase? You guessed it - enough pink outfits to rival the entire Barbie Dreamhouse wardrobe! The outfits are all lovingly handpicked, with a distinct ballet twist, just so that I'm always prepared to pirouette my way across the city!

My days were filled with a wonderful mix of exploration and artistry. First, the food! I have a weakness for beautiful pastries and dainty desserts, so Prague was pure culinary bliss. Forget your greasy kebabs, here in Prague, even a simple hot dog becomes an artwork! One evening, I had the most amazing Prague ham sandwich - all the creamy sweetness and crispness wrapped in a warm, crusty roll. And to finish it off? Why, a raspberry ice cream cone from a nearby street vendor, topped with sparkling sprinkles, of course! You must try it – I even dared to add a sprinkle of edible gold!

My next stop was the Prague Astronomical Clock - the perfect blend of history, intricate artistry, and of course, that touch of theatrical spectacle I love so much. The clock’s intricate mechanical figures moving and dancing as it chimes, reminding me of the ballets we watched in childhood - a magical moment frozen in time. Then there's Prague's stunning Charles Bridge. Just a graceful stroll over this ancient bridge and I was transported back to centuries gone by. Every inch of the bridge was a sight to behold: magnificent gothic arches, a bustling market full of artisan crafts, street musicians filling the air with melodies, and me? Well, I just waltzed along like a ballerina on a cobbled runway!

And let's not forget Prague's captivating squares and hidden corners - so many hidden delights waiting to be discovered! You never know what beautiful corner will bring you face-to-face with a stunning piece of architecture, a talented street performer, or a whimsical street artist! This city just oozes creativity, making me feel utterly inspired!

Now for the grand finale! The moment you've all been waiting for – my ballet journey in the heart of Prague. Prague boasts some of the finest theatres in the world, so I simply had to indulge in their breathtaking performances.

And where did I go to catch the biggest, the best, the most extravagant performance in Prague? None other than The National Theatre. I always think ballet is like wearing the perfect pink tutu, every graceful movement an expression of art.

Tonight’s performance was "Giselle" (29 September 1999). A classic for a reason. Giselle - this captivating story of love, betrayal, and loss, brought to life with the most enchanting choreography. My heart simply melted when the final scene arrived. As the beautiful ballerina, Giselle, tragically succumbed to the ballet’s drama - a touch of sadness tinged with joy as the curtains closed, I was ready to start planning my next adventure!

You know what? As I step off this train, a pink princess of the rails, my heart swells with the memories of my time in Prague. The enchanting streets, the fairytale hotels, the grand theatres – but most of all, the breathtaking ballets that echoed the spirit of the city. This pink tutu girl is officially in love with Prague! I encourage every one of you to explore Prague, and perhaps you can even spot me twirling among the ancient buildings!

I know I am a lucky girl! This trip was another dream come true, funded by my passion - performing. You don't have to be rich to follow your dreams! I will continue to work, to perform, to fund my love of life. And just like the little girl who dreamed of being a ballerina, I still feel that same magic of pirouette through the world!

And remember, this week, we wear pink tutus for a more colourful, magical world. That's what it means to be Pink Tutu Girl! Next week I'm on my way to Paris for the most incredible ballet-themed photoshoot in front of the Eiffel Tower – Stay tuned for the next adventure on Pink Tutu Diaries.

Don't forget to follow me on Instagram (@pinktutudiaries) for more photos and fashion updates.

Keep on twirling, darlings!

Love always,

Emma x