Dearest Tutu-Lovers!
It's Wednesday again, and you know what that means: another fabulous adventure from your favourite pink tutu-clad travel blogger, yours truly, Emma! Today we're taking a trip back in time to the heart of Europe - Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires!
It's not often I get to escape the rigours of London Ballet school for a little wanderlust. But luckily, this past March (a whole year ago, wow, how time flies!), I found myself waltzing onto a train from Derbyshire, my trusty pink tutu packed snuggly in my overnight bag. The journey, as always, was an adventure in itself. I can't tell you how much I love train journeys! That romantic, whistle-stop feeling - especially when coupled with the satisfying clickety-clack of wheels on the tracks!
This trip, however, wasn't about perfecting my fouetté in a different locale, but rather about celebrating the grand dame of dance history - Ballet in Prague! The city, so full of architectural wonders and artistic flair, is steeped in ballet history, and you just know it's going to be brimming with inspirational inspiration, right?
But first, a little shopping, of course! You know me! Once we landed in Prague, a taxi took me straight to the heart of the old town, where the scent of sweet pastries and freshly baked bread was enough to set my senses dancing! Before we even crossed the Charles Bridge (ah, that majestic stone arch!), I had spotted the most exquisite pink tutu hanging in the window of a charming little shop. Naturally, I had to add it to my collection. After all, what's a ballerina without a diverse wardrobe of pink tutus?!
Once my wardrobe was enriched (let's just say a few more lovely frocks, a sparkly handbag, and a beautiful pair of pearl earrings joined the pink tutu gang!), I was ready to delve into Prague's ballet world. And, oh, the adventures we had!
The National Theatre, my beloved...
The first stop had to be the National Theatre, an architectural masterpiece boasting exquisite grandeur, especially in the neo-Renaissance style. A magnificent spectacle even before the curtain goes up! And let me tell you, dear readers, the performance we witnessed here, a reimagining of Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake," left us all speechless!
The costumes - divine! The music - hauntingly beautiful! And the dancers? So incredibly talented. Their elegance and power were captivating, the ballerina's portrayal of Odette and Odile truly touching. The whole theatre, filled with history and artistic spirit, was humming with a kind of magic.
More than just Ballet, Prague is brimming with artistic expression...
The city itself seemed to be swaying to the rhythm of ballet - with each cobblestone I strolled on, each majestic building I passed, each street performer I encountered, I felt that very same elegant fluidity of movement. From the street dancers in the Old Town Square to the incredible Opera House (we spent an evening entranced by the stunning opera "La Bohème," you must see it!), Prague pulsated with creative energy.
Even in the cafes we enjoyed for afternoon tea (scones, you just wouldn't believe the delicious scones!), there were young men and women practising their ballet moves. It felt like the city was a living, breathing stage. And then, there was the charming little cafe called the Tutu-Teatime, the owner, a retired ballet dancer, with the most fascinating tales about his career! The hot chocolate was divine, topped with delicate sugar roses - a little treat for the ballerina inside!
A dance with the past…
But perhaps the most moving experience was visiting the Municipal House, a true architectural gem. Within its grand hall, we delved into Prague's rich ballet history. It was fascinating to learn about the legacy of "The Sleeping Beauty," originally premiered at the Prague National Theatre back in 1900. What a legacy to leave, right?! That kind of artistic magic is timeless.
Pink Tutu Prague: The Ultimate Inspiration!
And guess what, dear friends? Prague has now joined my favourite places for pink tutus! I stumbled upon a boutique selling the most delightful vintage pink tutus, I simply had to bring some home for you. They were so beautiful! Each with its own history and elegance. Perfect for a little ballet practice at home, or maybe a whimsical afternoon picnic? (If only there was room in my luggage!)
Overall, Prague proved to be a delightful, a truly unforgettable journey for the heart and soul. The city is filled with a contagious spirit of artistry and dance. And, just as a ballerina spins on her toes, the whole experience has made me realise - life's an adventure, full of wonder and grace! And that's precisely what Pink Tutu is all about!
Now for you, dear Tutu-lovers…
- If you have been to Prague, let me know your favourite ballet-related haunts in the comments!
Tell me about your favourite tutu adventures - the ones that leave you with that beautiful afterglow!
Until next Wednesday, keep dancing!
Pink Tutu, out!
