Wednesday, December 8th, 1999
Good morning, my darlings!
The mist swirls around Prague like a wispy, romantic ballerina's skirt, and I can't think of a more fitting place to begin this week's blog. The Czech Republic is absolutely charming! I arrived last night after a delightful journey by train – I always find the rhythmic clatter of the rails so soothing, a perfect counterpoint to the swish of my pink tutu!
This week's trip is funded by a beautiful, fundraising performance of "Swan Lake" back in Derbyshire. I can't deny the magic of a ballet performance. Seeing the stage alight with a thousand twinkles, feeling the soaring music fill your very being…it's almost spiritual. Plus, let's be honest, who can resist a perfectly executed arabesque in a stunning tutu?
Now, Prague is a city that is truly bewitched. The cobbled streets wind through a labyrinth of stunning architecture, each corner revealing a hidden jewel - a Baroque church, a Gothic tower, or a café with twinkling fairy lights. And it's this, my dears, that has my fashion senses tingling!
Last night, after settling into my room, which has the most heavenly views over the Vltava river, I stepped out to explore. You wouldn't believe the shops I've found! One tiny little boutique had the most exquisite selection of velvet brocades – imagine the divine shade of crimson you could whip up into a magnificent costume for a 'Carmen' ballet!
However, today's itinerary calls for something more traditional. You know, the things every visitor should experience. A stroll across Charles Bridge with its fairytale charm, a coffee at one of Prague's iconic cafes, perhaps even a traditional Czech pastry!
But what could I do in Prague without a ballet performance? My schedule is a tightrope walk between tutus and touristing.
And guess what I stumbled upon? A truly wonderful theatre - the Stavovské Divadlo! Oh, it's an architectural dream – a building steeped in history, so elegantly preserved. You just feel a buzz of excitement as you step inside!
And what was being staged this evening, you ask? You know I wouldn't let you down! It's a show I've been itching to see for months - the Ballet Nacional de Cuba will be performing "Giselle" this evening. Can you believe it? My little ballet heart is practically bouncing with joy! It's one of the most beloved Romantic ballets – you can't resist the delicate, heartbreaking tale of Giselle's love and loss.
I can hardly wait to see this iconic ballet come alive. It's said that the original Giselle was such a talented ballerina, they wrote the ballet specifically for her! Can you imagine? The dedication, the passion – truly inspiring!
Now, I must away and begin the all-important preparation for a grand evening of ballet! Choosing the perfect pink tutu – of course – a touch of crimson lipstick, a final sweep of shimmery eye shadow and…of course, some beautiful rose perfume to capture the air of Giselle!
More on my Czech adventures tomorrow, darlings! Until then, remember – always embrace the power of pink! And of course, never forget the magic of a ballet performance!
With much love and a twirling twirl,
Emma xxx www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. What's on your must-see list for a trip to Prague? Tell me all about it in the comments!
