Bonjour, my darling dears! Emma here, writing to you live from the magical city of Prague, the very place where, according to legend, ballet was first born. (Well, at least the word "ballet" itself – isn't that romantic?!).
I've always wanted to come to this exquisite, historic city and after all the dazzling performances in Derbyshire, it felt right to set off for the "City of a Hundred Spires", the perfect destination for a ballet lover like me! I travelled in the most divine manner - a glorious, slow, rattling train, punctuated with picturesque views that I’d have been happy to just stare at for hours, a fluffy book in hand (an absolutely thrilling new biography of Pavlova!), and the faint scent of coffee wafting through the air. Such elegance and peace - almost as delightful as twirling on stage! You see, travelling by train, is much like travelling in a time machine – and oh how I do adore history. I wonder what beautiful dresses were being worn and what tunes were being danced to all those years ago?
I think Prague is absolutely breathtaking. From its magnificent architecture to its rich cultural tapestry, this place is positively brimming with history and glamour! Even its cobblestone streets whisper tales of a bygone era, filled with colourful carriages, elegant ladies, and of course, the grace of dance! Just a mere five minutes walk from my little hotel – charmingly called “The Lilac Tree” – the majestic Prague Castle, dominates the skyline, as a sentinel of all that is grand and elegant! I’ve already spent many hours in the castle, simply drinking it in, letting it seep into my very soul.
Just you wait - the sights! The fairytale architecture – every corner you turn a photo-opportunity, as if the whole city is a whimsical film set. The bridges! Prague is known for its bridges - especially Charles Bridge with all the lovely shops, trinket sellers and street artists. And I just had to add one more thing - the river, winding its way through the city, just so beautiful.
Of course, with all this glamour, Prague demands a touch of glamour! I’m wearing my new "Rose Garden" tutu! I believe my pink tutu is just the right accessory, I must say. Just like Prague - delicate yet exquisite, dainty but strong.
Yesterday, I wandered down a charming street and I was enchanted by the sounds of a string quartet playing just as I turned a corner. I felt myself being drawn in and my feet began to tap lightly in time. I imagine it felt a bit like this - this intoxicatingly magical music - back when the early ballets were being danced in the courts and amongst the nobles in this wonderful, magical city.
It’s actually quite funny because just as I started humming the tunes, and moving my feet in the rhythm, the street performers looked up at me! There I was – dressed in a magnificent pink tutu! – almost lost in the magic of their beautiful music – they were quite taken aback for a few moments (at least, I think that’s what they were feeling!), then I gave them a dazzling little curtsey – just for the pleasure of it – then, they simply smiled.
Today’s programme includes the beautiful “Tchaikovsky Ballet”. Tonight’s show is at The National Theatre, just next to the Charles Bridge. I’m feeling incredibly excited, but also slightly apprehensive - it is Prague after all! A historical landmark, with an exciting ballet history to boot! It’s something quite magical I think.
You know – even with all my excitement for this spectacular ballet, it was during my first hour here in Prague, in the little shop just down from my hotel, that I bought a beautiful “Tulips of Prague" embroidered pink tutu. This place really knows how to spoil you! And, speaking of ballet history – I also got a new book. " The Art of the Ballet in the Age of Marie Antoinette". I cannot wait to lose myself in its pages!
Tomorrow’s plans:
Tomorrow morning, I am starting my day with a rather special and exclusive visit – “the studio.” The only private studio in the whole city! I cannot wait to get back in a class - my legs need it and I feel it’s high time I re-freshen my repertoire. The Ballet teacher there has just sent me a letter, which I’m carrying very close to my heart - just think how beautiful all the students there look with my “Tulip’s of Prague ” tutu (I even bought a spare to hand out and inspire - isn’t it delightful to share a little bit of joy?). I have heard this is the place that “ballet celebrities” all visit. So if it's good enough for them, I am going to take myself along – a pink tutu to accompany me, of course. This may give my feet the necessary break they need.
After class, a delightful surprise: The charming owner of “The Lilac Tree” hotel, has invited me to the most extraordinary fashion event, a luncheon for “fashionistas”, at the Grand Palace - (such elegance). He explained, with much passion (I love how he uses the “w” like the French - oh, la la! it adds an extra charm ), “Madame, only those who appreciate fashion are welcomed!” And as I’m a lover of beautiful garments, I am not missing this one – not in a million years, or a million years! The hotel even got me a delightful pink-silk scarf. (Do I love this place, or do I love this place!).
And, I promise, when I come back, you’ll all hear all about it!
Tonight – The Tchaikovsky ballet at The National Theatre - just you wait to hear about the amazing atmosphere and the dancing and the beauty!
And that is how my story goes my dears - until next Wednesday!!
Yours ever
Emma, x
