Hello my lovelies! This is Emma from Derbyshire, writing to you live from the most magical city in the world: Prague! It's Wednesday, the day my Pink Tutu Blog graces your screens, and today we're talking about a dream come true: ballet in Prague.
As a seasoned traveller and self-proclaimed Tutu Queen, I've waltzed my way across Europe, but Prague has captured my heart (and my dance shoes!) from the very first glimpse. The cobblestone streets, the Baroque buildings, the whispering history... It's like a ballet set come to life.
And the ballet here, oh my! A stunning blend of tradition and modernity, presented in grand theatres dripping with gold leaf and glamour.
This week's adventure began, as it often does, with a delightful train journey. I adore the slow rhythm of a train journey, allowing my mind to wander as the landscape whizzes by. It's a perfect time to indulge in a spot of tutu contemplation, dreaming up future looks and mentally rehearsing my next ballet performance. (Yes, I do travel by train while wearing my tutus - let's just say, it's all about confidence and a touch of theatrical flair!)
Once in Prague, I dropped my luggage at the most charming little boutique hotel you could imagine – all delicate floral wallpaper, antique furniture, and even a grand piano in the lobby (which I had to try out, naturally). I had to, simply had to, pick up the latest Pink Tutu magazine before I even went out!
Then, I was off exploring the streets! The magic of Prague unfolds at every turn. I love the colourful houses and quaint squares, perfect for a twirl or two. I even spotted a shop overflowing with beautiful hand-painted porcelain dolls - how I dream of a Tutu Ballerina doll one day!
Prague's old town is just irresistible - I took a boat ride down the Vltava River, marvelling at the iconic Charles Bridge and its beautiful bridgeside sculptures. Later that day, I indulged in the city’s vibrant fashion scene. The Prague shops were just bursting with delightful pink clothing, shoes, and accessories – every fashionista’s dream! I found myself adding several pink treasures to my wardrobe, and, of course, no shopping trip is complete without a beautiful new tutu.
Then, the highlight of my trip - a visit to the National Theatre. I’d been planning this for months, ever since I heard whispers about the grandeur of the theatre and the breathtaking performances. As I stepped into the theatre, the air seemed to shimmer with anticipation. The velvet seats were deep and inviting, the ornate ceiling was like a dazzling star-filled sky. I felt an exhilarating blend of anticipation and nervous excitement, just as if I was stepping onto the stage myself!
And what a performance it was! A sublime production of Giselle, a story of love, betrayal, and haunting beauty. The dancers were truly extraordinary, their movements graceful and precise, their expressions conveying emotions both delicate and powerful.
The experience was magical. I could see why people flock to Prague from all corners of the world for its artistic spirit, for the way it combines the old with the new, the elegant with the everyday. It was an evening that I’ll remember forever, a night where pink tutus and classical ballet twirled together in perfect harmony.
Prague, I’ve fallen head over heels in love with you. I know that you’ll forever hold a special place in my heart, the place where my Tutu dreams come true!
Now, let’s dive into the pink tutu details, shall we? I chose a beautiful new pink tulle tutu, complete with delicate floral embroidery, for the occasion. I paired it with a vibrant magenta blouse and my trusty pink ballet flats - it's a signature look for a reason! I was truly twirling in pink paradise!
This adventure wasn't all about grand theatres and designer dresses, however. We explored the bohemian cafes in the Old Town Square, sampling the local gingerbread cookies and fragrant Czech beer. And I couldn't leave Prague without taking a ride on one of their famous trams, watching the city drift past the windows as the tram clicked and clacked along the tracks.
One evening, we found ourselves at a local outdoor market, bustling with life and delicious smells. I sampled traditional Czech dishes like pork roast and goulash, both delightfully delicious. We indulged in trdelník, the famous Czech pastry, coated with cinnamon and sugar. A delicious treat fit for a ballerina with a sweet tooth!
Speaking of sweet, my journey was filled with lovely treats and experiences.
One morning, we found a beautiful bakery tucked away in a charming alleyway, a hidden gem of Prague. I tasted a selection of delightful Czech pastries and cakes, each sweeter than the last, washed down with the most delicious strong coffee, it felt like something from a fairy tale! I felt like I was transported back to a Victorian drawing-room, complete with pink floral china and porcelain teacups, perfect for a pink tutu-wearing ballerina, like me.
The people of Prague are as charming as the city itself, friendly and welcoming, eager to share their beautiful culture. Prague's magic is infectious, and the pink tutu energy just multiplies!
Now, a little ballet history, just to add a sprinkle of knowledge to your dance-filled Wednesday! Did you know that Prague has a long and rich ballet tradition? The National Theatre, where I saw Giselle, has been a hub for ballet since the 19th century. It’s a place where dancers from across the world come to perform, contributing to the city's ever-evolving cultural scene.
And speaking of culture, my travels wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the delightful shops I discovered. Prague is a haven for independent fashion designers, boutique owners, and artists. There were so many amazing, hand-made trinkets that I could have spent days just wandering and browsing! And there are countless quirky, hidden cafes nestled down backstreets, with tempting menus offering everything from hearty Czech soups to dainty pastel macarons - it was heaven on earth for my sweet tooth.
And, finally, tutu history, for the real aficionados. I discovered an antique shop full of delicate lace and silk, and I couldn’t resist buying a beautiful antique tutu as a souvenir of my journey. It’s a little fragment of Prague's rich history, something to treasure and to inspire future tutu creations!
Prague, thank you for the magic, for the wonder, and for making my heart soar! And to my wonderful readers, remember:
Life is meant to be lived in a pink tutu, one dance at a time.
Until next week, stay fabulous and keep on twirling!
Emma x
