Wednesday 15th October, 2008
Bonjour, darlings!
This week I’m writing to you from the enchanting city of Prague. This place is just magical, like stepping into a fairytale! I swear, the cobbled streets and those stunning, towering spires really are like something out of a dream.
And I haven't even mentioned the food! The delicious smells of sweet pastries wafting through the air, the aroma of roasted meats and rich Czech beer… it’s a food lover's heaven! But let's get back to the main event: the ballet!
This past weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of attending a performance of “The Sleeping Beauty” at the National Theatre. It was absolutely stunning! The costumes, the music, the sheer talent of the dancers – it all came together to create a truly unforgettable experience.
Before the show, of course, I indulged in a little shopping spree on the streets around the theatre. I couldn't resist adding some truly fabulous new items to my pink tutu wardrobe – a dazzling pair of sparkly ballet shoes in a shade of pink I call "Pink Prosecco" and a delicate tulle shawl with an intricate pattern of tiny, sparkling stars.
As usual, my pink tutu became the centre of attention. Everywhere I went, people smiled and seemed genuinely delighted to see such a delightful touch of colour amidst the beautiful but sometimes stark beauty of Prague. You know, it truly does seem like everyone wants to embrace the magic of a pink tutu. Maybe that's my little mission in life, I wonder… spreading the joy and loveliness of pink tutus across the globe?
Now, let's chat a bit about ballet in Prague! This city has a rich history of ballet, dating all the way back to the 17th century! One of my absolute favourite spots here is the beautiful Old Town Hall. There's a truly enchanting astronomical clock that sits atop the building. Every hour, it comes alive with a parade of mechanical figures! And let me tell you, that's the most amazing piece of theatre!
And if you're a tutu lover like myself, there's a particular story about ballet in Prague that just resonates with me. Back in the early 20th century, a brilliant ballerina named Anna Pavlova (she’s famous, darling, she’s famous!) actually toured Prague with her ballet company. Legend has it that she was quite smitten with the city, so much so that she even designed a beautiful pink tutu specifically for one of her performances here.
Of course, you can't talk about ballet in Prague without mentioning their famed "Black Light Theatre" that is still performed today! I have to say, this truly is the most extraordinary theatre I've ever witnessed. It's like stepping into a silent, black and white film, but then bam! You see the vibrant neon colours illuminating the stage! Just genius! The theatre is such a special and magical experience and absolutely captivating in a really unique and creative way.
But it's not just the ballet that captures my heart in Prague. It’s the history, the culture, the little things. I have to mention the adorable little cafes I’ve been enjoying for breakfast and the delightful carriage ride through the city centre last Sunday. There is something about seeing Prague from the vantage point of a traditional carriage - I highly recommend you give it a go if you are ever lucky enough to visit.
Now, about that trip to Prague. This weekend, I got there by pony - well, not entirely by pony. It was quite a journey, I’ll tell you. We travelled all the way from my home in Derbyshire to London. We then hopped on a lovely, efficient, and most importantly, pink-hued, train. And yes, I mean pink, even the trains have embraced my obsession! After an enjoyable journey across the Channel to Prague, I finally found myself surrounded by all of the majestic, magical beauty Prague had to offer.
Speaking of travelling, my next stop is Budapest! I’m planning a beautiful journey by train there next week, a journey that promises breathtaking views of the Czech countryside. My plan is to stop off along the way to visit a little ballet school I heard about and take a couple of ballet classes in my lovely pink tutu. You never know, darling, maybe I'll even perform a few pirouettes for the local villagers - in my fabulous pink tutu, of course!
So until next Wednesday, I leave you with this: don't be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina. Let your pink tutu fly and let your spirit soar. After all, that’s what makes life truly magical!
See you next Wednesday,
Emma xxx www.pink-tutu.com
