Hello, my darling darlings! Emma here, back from a whirlwind trip to the beautiful city of Prague! And let me tell you, this place is simply bursting with romance, history, and charm, just like a perfectly pink tutu!
This week, I'm taking you all on a fabulous journey through my Prague adventures, and believe me, it's been a tutu-rific time. I've been hopping about like a ballerina on cloud nine, and it's all thanks to a most wonderful opportunity: a performance at the Prague State Opera!
Before I dive into the performance, though, let's rewind to the train journey from Derbyshire. You know how much I love a good train ride - there's just something so magical about watching the world go by from a carriage window, especially when it's a journey to a new and exciting destination!
And the scenery from Derbyshire to Prague was truly breathtaking! The countryside, dappled with autumnal colours, the bustling villages and ancient castles - all bathed in a glorious golden light. It was like stepping straight into a fairytale, a fairy tale made just for me and my favourite pink tutu!
Speaking of tutus, let's have a moment for their fascinating history! It was back in the 18th century that tutus began to take centre stage. Imagine, they were just little puffy undergarments worn beneath long dresses. How quaint! But slowly they started making a splash, becoming shorter and fuller until, BAM!, they were the fashion stars they are today!
Arriving in Prague was like walking into a postcard. The architecture, oh my, the architecture! Grand, elaborate, and perfectly preserved, it's as if Prague was a ballet dancer herself, forever frozen in a beautiful pose.
Of course, no trip to Prague would be complete without a stop at Old Town Square. This bustling hub is surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Astronomical Clock and the Tyn Church. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos in my pink tutu, twirling against the backdrop of the majestic architecture - what's a ballerina to do?
Shopping Spree
A city like Prague can only mean one thing: shopping! And it didn't disappoint! I was like a little girl in a sweet shop! From traditional Czech crafts to contemporary designer boutiques, Prague offers a fascinating mix for any style seeker.
One of my first stops was the lovely, quirky shop "U Zlateho Andela" - meaning "At the Golden Angel" - for a little treasure hunt. And I was certainly rewarded! I found the most beautiful hand-painted Czech glass ornaments that now proudly decorate my Derbyshire flat, and wouldn't you know it, a blush pink crystal heart that I can’t wait to wear as a necklace.
The main shopping streets are full of charm, filled with vibrant cafes, quirky independent shops, and, of course, designer labels! My personal favourite was a small boutique nestled in the Old Town, run by a designer named Jana who makes exquisite, handmade clothes using natural fabrics - her creations were absolutely delightful, so delicate and flowy, they practically danced around me!
Dance Night
Finally, the evening of the big performance! The Prague State Opera is an incredible building. All grandeur and opulent décor, just as a true ballet performance should be! As I walked into the opera house, I couldn't help but feel the excitement build, anticipation for the dance filling the air, like a wave of musical notes.
For this performance, I'd chosen my favourite ballet pink tutu with the sweetest little bow and a delicate, hand-stitched pearl border, which shimmered under the golden chandeliers, reminding me of Prague's glittering spirit.
And let me tell you, the performance was extraordinary! It was an exhilarating performance of the timeless Swan Lake. The story unfolded with grace and power. Each step was precise, every movement an expression of pure artistry. I could see why the ballet was such a cultural sensation across the globe.
From the heart-wrenching drama to the majestic and powerful movements, I was swept away! I have a real penchant for ballet history, and it was thrilling to be in a place where so much theatrical tradition has unfolded. There were elements of choreography, stories, and themes that resonated with the classicism of 19th Century ballet while simultaneously exhibiting a level of dynamism and athleticism that spoke to the 21st Century.
After the final curtain, my spirit was full of such energy and joy that I danced through the cobbled streets, humming along to the last notes of Tchaikovsky.
Travel By Train - The Return Trip
Back on the train, I reminisced about all the magic of my Prague adventures. Looking back, the city felt like a dream, an exquisitely orchestrated ballet of architecture, art, culture, and fashion, woven into a harmonious whole.
As I leaned back in my comfortable train seat, the gentle rhythmic rocking of the carriage put me in a rather dream-like state. In fact, I had a vision...
It was a vision of Prague but bathed in a gloriously bright pink glow, everyone wearing tutus, all swirling and leaping, and giggling. Why, this Prague Ballet would be so magnificent and full of beauty, it would set everyone’s heart ablaze. I'll leave you with this thought and urge you to follow in my footsteps - come explore the magical city of Prague, and if you find yourself enchanted by it, please, let me know! And for goodness sake, make sure you have your favourite pink tutu packed, because you never know when a dance opportunity will present itself!
Stay fabulous!
Love, Emma x
