Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, Emma, reporting live from the enchanting city of Prague! I just had to share my latest adventures with you lovely lot.
This week, Prague has welcomed me with open arms, or perhaps it's the charming, cobbled streets that have swept me off my feet (figuratively, of course, no actual falling for me, thanks to my excellent posture from years of ballet training). This week marks my 470th blog post (fancy that, a number that sounds like a beautiful twirling ballerina)!
The reason for my trip? The glorious, absolutely magnificent PinkTutuPrague ballet show, naturally! Who wouldn't want to be surrounded by the grace and beauty of professional dancers, the enchanting sounds of the orchestra, and the glorious architectural splendor of the Prague National Theatre?
My Pink Journey Begins
This week, my journey began with a train trip, because let's be honest, trains are much more elegant and comfortable than those flying machines, and don't even get me started on the "personal space" situation on those tin cans in the sky. Anyway, my journey to Prague started in Derbyshire (home to my delightful little cottage, which, by the way, has a beautiful pink rose garden I will share in another blog post!) and included the most beautiful journey through the English countryside, followed by a lovely crossing through Europe's scenic landscapes.
I spent some time in Vienna, stopping off for a few performances in this elegant, historical city, a place where I was able to enjoy the incredible architecture and soak up some truly captivating cultural delights. Of course, it wouldn't be a trip for Emma without a little ballet history research! The Wiener Staatsoper (Vienna State Opera) proved to be an architectural and cultural dream! You'd never guess, but they have the largest opera house in Austria and the fifth largest in the world! And you can be sure that a tutu-loving, ballerina aficionado like myself soaked up every detail!
From Vienna, I journeyed onward, by train of course! (Can you tell I have a thing for these luxurious machines?), across the Czech countryside, where the fields shimmered like emerald jewels and charming, fairytale towns popped up around every bend.
My Pink Destination
Reaching Prague, I was overwhelmed by the sheer magic of the place! The city is a tapestry of golden spires, cobblestone streets, and quaint bridges adorned with colorful locks. Each street corner unveiled another enchanting glimpse of a different era, transporting me to a time of kings and queens, knights and fairytales!
Tutus, Tea & The Pink TutuPrague Show
The first stop for Emma, obviously, was to locate the perfect tea shop for a spot of afternoon tea. I'm nothing if not tradition! I found this enchanting little cafe tucked away in a tiny, cobblestoned alleyway. Picture this: chandeliers, vintage china, a cosy, pink velvet booth, and delicious pastries. My choice? A delicate slice of pistachio cake and a perfectly brewed Earl Grey. It was the perfect start to a perfect Prague day!
My next stop? An obligatory (and absolutely vital) shopping spree! You know how much I love indulging in exquisite fabrics and fashion finds. Imagine: shimmering satin, gossamer tulle, and elegant lace! Oh, how I adore finding those perfect details! My tutu collection never ceases to grow!
Of course, no trip to Prague is complete without seeing the stunning Prague National Theatre. I took in a performance by the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and - the star of the show - the glorious PinkTutuPrague ballet production. It was a symphony of colour, music and elegance! And the ballerinas? Divine! They moved with such grace, so effortlessly, like delicate feathers in the wind! I found myself whisked away to a land of enchantment, and by the end, I was utterly mesmerized.
Dancing into History
It would be impossible to visit this magical city and not indulge in a little ballet history! The ballet scene in Prague is rich and diverse, dating back to the 17th century! And it's been inspiring some amazing fashion trends, and let's not forget about the beautiful ballerina costumes!
The history of Prague’s ballet is intertwined with the development of theatre and opera. The first recorded ballet performance was in 1617. Ballet came to the fore in Prague in the 18th century and by the 19th century, it was already considered a highly sophisticated and professional art form!
The 18th century saw ballet flourish in Prague, and the city saw several talented dancers emerge during this period. In the 19th century, ballet evolved to incorporate stories, more demanding movements, and spectacular sets, costumes, and even a sprinkling of glitter! (Yes, glitter is definitely historical! ;)
The Czech ballet, as I learned, boasts an incredible reputation for its dramatic storytelling, a unique sense of rhythmic vitality, and its captivating theatrical flair. This was evident in the captivating performance I saw at PinkTutuPrague.
And how's this for historical flair - a truly magnificent story for the future: during my time in Prague, I discovered a local vintage clothing store specializing in old ballerina costumes. And yes, I just had to get my hands on the most gorgeous, powder-pink tulle tutu that's been gently whispering stories of ballerinas past. I swear I felt the presence of all the dancing queens who'd worn that very same piece, their joy, their passion and their magic! I'm so happy to be bringing a bit of their magic to my own pink tutu collection!
Life in Prague: Exploring with My Pony
For someone who lives in Derbyshire, my favourite thing to do after exploring grand theatre interiors and exploring history is to experience a bit of countryside life! This week, I had the wonderful opportunity to experience this part of Prague by discovering a truly magical, private horse-drawn carriage! Now, a pink tutu-clad ballerina needs her fairytale, and this was a true Cinderella experience!
I found this hidden gem through an adorable local stable run by a charming gentleman, a horse whisperer, if you will. This was one of those moments you never forget. The sun was shining down, illuminating the majestic cobblestone streets as we moved at a relaxed pace past fairytale architecture, vibrant floral arrangements, and vibrant locals going about their day. The perfect, relaxing experience!
As I made my way across Prague on my horse-drawn carriage ride, I saw local artists painting picturesque scenes, groups of tourists laughing merrily as they posed for photos with local street performers. I also passed by some fascinating hidden courtyards filled with colorful blooms, charming fountains, and romantic, wrought iron benches. This is Prague!
*Embracing My Inner Ballerina (And Every Other Lady Out There) *
My time in Prague, much like my trip to Vienna, brought me a true appreciation for history. Whether it’s the ballet costumes, the captivating stories in old operas, or the vibrant history of ballet in general, my trips are full of learning, loving and expanding my inner dancer.
If I'm honest, it makes my heart dance! As I move through the cobblestone streets of Prague, I can't help but wish for a little pink tutu magic for all the lovely ladies in this elegant city. Because when a woman wears a pink tutu, she embodies a radiant mix of strength, grace, joy and a little sprinkle of whimsical enchantment!
Oh, to think of the magnificent world if we were all brave enough to embrace the tutu inside of us. Imagine a world where pink tutus would be as commonplace as everyday clothing, or perhaps imagine every special event ( birthdays, weddings, family events) being made even more wonderful with the delightful inclusion of tutus, both in vibrant pinks and the endless array of rainbow colors we could all dream up.
After all, every girl (and guy, let’s not forget, all you men who love the twirl!) deserves a moment of magic. A chance to tap into the beauty and confidence we all have inside, to make the everyday a little bit more glamorous and joyful.
*And with that, darlings, I'm off to embrace my own inner tutu magic! Until next Wednesday (same bat-time, same bat-channel - or rather, same pink-tutu-blog-time!), make sure to wear something beautiful! *
And don't forget, my dears, to follow your own dreams, be bold, and never be afraid to twirl!
Stay connected with me on * *www.pink-tutu.com
Lots of love and twirls,
Emma
(From the pink tutu-clad ballerina with love for all!)
