Hello lovelies!
It's Emma here, your pink-loving, tutu-wearing ballerina blogger, ready to take you on another magical journey. This week, I'm reporting to you live from the enchanting city of Prague! Just imagine – cobblestone streets, charming cafes, beautiful architecture, and, of course, incredible ballet. It’s simply dreamy!
This trip to Prague was inspired by a whisper of ballet history that brushed my ears. You know how I love a good ballet backstory, and did you know the Bolshoi Ballet's incredible ballerina Anna Pavlova toured the Czech Republic in the early 20th century? Prague is bursting with ballet legacy, and I simply had to explore it!
This city has a magic that is impossible to explain. Even my arrival was positively enchanting. I was travelling from Derbyshire by train, as usual – nothing quite beats the romanticism of journeying on a long-distance train with a well-stocked bag of goodies. My latest find – pink macarons! - and a copy of Giselle by Théophile Gautier for my train read were absolute essentials.
Of course, what better way to get into Prague's magical spirit than to hire a pony to take me through the city! It felt as if I had stepped into a storybook – the gentle clip-clop of his hooves, the cobblestones echoing the rhythm, and the sunshine highlighting the pink frills on my favourite tutu. Just glorious!
Speaking of pink tutus, dear readers, I've spotted some divine treasures here. The shopping in Prague is out of this world. There are so many delightful vintage shops bursting with retro gems, like little time capsules from a bygone era. It was heaven for this ballet fashionista, who can't resist a sparkly beaded evening bag or a pair of stylish pink ballet flats.
However, the pièce de résistance of the week was undoubtedly the ballet performance at the National Theatre. Oh, my darlings, it was exquisite! Imagine soaring ceilings adorned with intricate frescoes, elegant plush seats, and a captivating performance by the Prague Ballet. The entire atmosphere crackled with energy and the dancers – they moved like graceful swans! I swear, my heart was a-flutter throughout the whole production. The playbill said it was "Giselle," a famous romantic ballet set in the Rhineland in the 1800s! It was as though I had stepped into the story itself. Of course, my eyes were drawn to the beautiful costumes and the graceful ballerina, who even sported a touch of pink in her silk slippers!
In keeping with the spirit of Giselle, I have decided to dedicate this entire week to romantic ballerinas and the history of tutus. After all, it was the French Ballet Master Carlotta Grisi, who actually popularized the tutu as we know it for Giselle, so the whole romantic ballet movement wouldn't have been the same without her and without those enchanting tulle tutus.
Did you know that back in the day, ballerinas wore layers of heavy petticoats underneath their dresses? It’s said that Carlotta found it incredibly uncomfortable. And since her performance of Giselle required a lot of pirouettes and soaring leaps, she created a new, light, almost airy dress – the classic ballerina tutu that we all adore today!
Every time I wear a tutu, it’s like stepping into history, carrying on that magical tradition of lightness, grace and artistic expression. I feel an instant connection to all the extraordinary women who have donned the tulle before me. And every time I step on stage, my heart sings, my spirit soars, and I just know I'm sharing the same joy with those who watch. And the pink - well, it just adds a bit more magic to it all. Don't you agree?
For the rest of this week, I'll be diving deeper into the enchanting world of ballet in Prague. There are so many fascinating stories and hidden gems to uncover here. We'll talk more about ballet's history in Prague, some must-visit spots in the city, and of course, I'll share my shopping finds. I've got a secret new favourite tutu, and I just know you’re going to love it!
But most importantly, let's all remember that a touch of pink, a hint of whimsy, and a little sprinkle of ballerina magic can make the world a more beautiful place.
Until next Wednesday, my dears.
With a pirouette and a wink,
Emma x
P.S. Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for more photos and my weekly posts about ballet, fashion, and my travels. I promise to keep sharing the joy with you!
Prague – A Ballet-Lover's Paradise!
Prague truly is a magical city with so much to offer! If you’re planning a trip here, let me share some insider tips!
*Ballet: *
- The National Theatre is an absolute must-visit for a beautiful theatre experience. It’s not just the stunning architecture, but the ballet performances are truly special, featuring the talented Prague Ballet! They're well worth experiencing.
- The Opera House offers another amazing spot for seeing ballets - I just saw "Giselle" there!
For a little less grand theatre experience (but definitely just as beautiful), check out the Municipal House!
- History:
- Be sure to wander the Old Town Square, its heart pulsates with history. It's truly spectacular, full of cobblestone streets and magnificent architecture - and you’ll find that special spot for that perfect photo, don't worry!
- The Charles Bridge, is also a must! A romantic, timeless place full of stories - and great spots for photo ops!
- Prague Castle, the world's largest ancient castle complex - what a treat for the eyes.
Take a step back in time at the Jewish Quarter. The architecture is incredible and you can find some truly stunning galleries and museums here too!
Shopping & Fun!
- For shopping for a new pink tutu (and for any occasion), head to the Parizska Street!
- If you like markets, try the Old Town Square market - so much beautiful traditional Czech arts and crafts to see! The perfect place to pick up a quirky memento or two.
- Be sure to visit the dancing houses, with its iconic twisting building. It's so visually stunning that you simply have to see it for yourself!
- The Dancing House, (that's its actual name) a stunning architectural wonder, a truly beautiful example of deconstructionist design.
Pink Tutu Prague Tips for your Trip!
Travel by Train! (the romantic way to explore Europe)
- You’ll experience so many magical landscapes. I like the British Rail, Eurostar, Thalys, SNCF trains – they’re so beautifully crafted - the architecture of the carriage compartments – beautiful, very art deco. You feel the vintage glamour the whole time, especially on journeys through the European countryside, with their winding lines and views over rolling hills and farms. You’re traveling through landscapes with real depth – with woods, meadows and rolling hills - like looking at Impressionist paintings in reality. I just love it!
Pony Hire!
- Prague has so many charming places with quiet backstreets for exploring - It's a great way to experience the city. Find yourself a pony - they are gentle creatures - a nice change from train travel and you can easily access parts of the city on quieter, pedestrian routes that would take you hours to navigate!
The Colour Pink
- When in doubt, wear a pink tutu, or maybe pink ballet shoes – a wonderful excuse to break out a fab new ensemble or even just a pink belt – add a splash of fun colour! Make it your thing! Don’t be shy! Prague loves the vibrant colours of your personality!
Bring a Pink Ballet Scarf (to drape over the carriage window if you’re traveling by train – oh so chic! )
Stay pink and glamorous! Love, Emma x
