Well, darlings, here I am in the heart of Prague, the city of a hundred spires, and the magic is already working its spell! I’ve landed smack-bang in the middle of the festive season, and it’s simply dazzling. Think twinkling lights reflecting off snow-dusted rooftops, cobbled streets bustling with shoppers clutching roasted chestnuts, and a million Christmas markets bursting with handmade delights and warming mulled wine. Oh, how I love Christmas!
This trip is a dream come true – my first Christmas in Prague. I arrived by train, of course! There's something so magical about seeing the world unfold from the comfort of a plush compartment, watching the landscape shift from rolling countryside to fairytale villages. It feels like stepping into a storybook, just waiting for a handsome prince to come riding on a white horse, a scenario I find entirely plausible! And did I mention the pastries? They're a masterpiece in their own right. Flaky croissants, delicate cakes, and enough marzipan to make a sugar-craving girl weep with joy. I’ve already worked up a healthy appetite for Christmas Eve dinner – roasted goose with potato dumplings, it sounds simply divine!
Speaking of Christmas Eve, I’m especially excited about the programme tonight! This year, my performances have allowed me to take my annual festive break here, which meant one very important decision: which tutu to bring? I wrestled with this one, darling. The choice is practically impossible with my collection – shimmering ruby, icy white, a swirling peppermint candy pink, a midnight blue that evokes starlit skies. In the end, I went for the classic blush pink tutu. It's elegant, romantic, and embodies the spirit of Christmas Eve perfectly, don’t you think? I mean, pink is just undeniably festive!
Before I tell you all about tonight's magical show, let’s talk a little about my favourite thing about Prague – the ballet scene! It's as vibrant as the city itself, overflowing with history, tradition, and of course, plenty of tutus. This place oozes elegance, from the grandeur of the National Theatre to the intimacy of the smaller venues where you can truly appreciate the magic of a solo performance. And talking of grand, imagine my delight when I discovered the Prague National Theatre's extensive ballet library! The air itself seems to hum with the echoes of past ballets. Imagine a lifetime dedicated to documenting and preserving such breathtaking art forms, from the graceful waltzes of the late 19th century to the thrilling, contemporary movements of today!
Tonight's show is at the Estates Theatre, a beautiful venue with a long and fascinating history. This theatre holds special significance – it's the site where the first ever production of Mozart's Don Giovanni took place! I'm so excited! Imagine seeing the ghosts of theatre history gliding around you while the strains of Mozart fill the air! What’s more, this theatre is also said to be one of the very few buildings in Prague that survived the devastating fire of 1819, and was the first theatre built entirely out of iron! So chic! I’m seeing The Nutcracker, and I can barely contain myself!
Now, on to something truly exciting! This city has blown my mind with its stunning boutiques. I’ve stumbled upon a shop tucked away in a little cobbled side street, called "Pink and Tutu". They have the most beautiful and unique selection of ballet shoes and tights you’ve ever seen, everything from traditional satin to vibrant sequin-covered delights! I spent hours there – truly! My new red and gold silk point shoes have a new best friend: a silver and champagne tulle tutu with shimmering metallic thread! This is truly a Christmas miracle – a shop in Prague that mirrors my own passion! I mean, let's face it, a little bit of pink can brighten any outfit!
Oh, speaking of fashion, I’ve fallen in love with this gorgeous wool coat I bought yesterday. A vibrant crimson hue, lined with the softest fleece. I knew I had to have it - the colour was irresistible. This, my darling readers, is how one accessorizes a pink tutu, just in case you're wondering! After all, a fashionable ballerina always has a fabulous coat at her disposal, even when it’s 3 degrees Celsius! And I must confess, a splash of pink was never needed. That red, though… It truly spoke to me!
This Christmas has been more enchanting than I could have ever imagined. Between the vibrant energy of Prague's streets and the spellbinding stories of the ballets, I feel a renewed love for the art form I devote my life to. The city's captivating history and charming character weave an irresistible spell over you. I have a sneaking suspicion this is going to be the Christmas I dream about for years to come. And don't you forget, darlings, always dress for the occasion – with a tutu, of course! Happy holidays to you all, and stay stylish, from Prague with love, Emma.
