Pink Tutu Prague: Blog Post Number 997 (04/06/2014)
Hello Darlings!
This week's post is a real treat! I'm so excited to finally be in Prague, the city of a hundred spires. It's every bit as magical and beautiful as I imagined. It was a bit of a whirlwind getting here, travelling from Derbyshire on a very sweltering Eurostar train (with my lucky pink tutu of course). I wasn't entirely sure how I was going to cope with the heat in all this tulle, but let me tell you, being a ballerina is all about the dedication, and I'd be lying if I said I hadn't packed my trusty little hand fan (you know, for the "take a bow" moments).
Prague itself is a treat for the senses, an absolute fairytale with cobblestone streets, enchanting architecture, and charming cafes where you can sip on Czech coffee and soak up the atmosphere.
Speaking of atmosphere, you can't visit a place like this without indulging in a spot of culture, darling. Today I am utterly spoilt for choice with two splendid performances. First up was La Fille Mal GardĆ©e, the classic ballet based on the story of a farmerās daughter and a rich but clumsy suitor. This sweet tale of love, family, and mischief had the most deliciously playful music. I must admit, the whole ātutu timeā experience took me right back to the Derbyshire village hall. It made me giggle, it made me gasp, and most importantly, it made my heart sing!
The second show of the evening was something else entirely: Swan Lake. What a monumental experience. Itās quite breathtaking to see the timeless beauty and grace of Swan Lake staged against the stunning backdrop of the Prague National Theatre. Oh, my darlings! There were tears! There were gasps! There were applause! And there were some incredibly inspiring costumes. There were even a few sequins that practically leaped out at you! My love for these fabulous and elaborate tutus is well documented, and in my experience, there is no more iconic costume than that of Swan Lake**ās Black Swan, all black feathers and mystery!
Fashion-forward fashionista that I am, I had to have a look-see at the boutiques. * And you know what? They don't do anything by halves in Prague! Imagine this: gorgeous vintage shops spilling out into the cobbled streets, stylish contemporary stores showcasing the most fabulous European designs. *It is literally a sartorial dream come true! I'm in a bit of a love affair with Prague, especially after the delights I discovered at a stunning boutique I came across near the Charles Bridge. Oh, to be wearing the pink ruffled tutu of my dreams. Itās going to look fabulous for Pink Tutu Prague Part 2 next Wednesday! (Donāt worry, Iāll show you what I picked up, darling! You won't want to miss it!)
Now, hereās the beauty of travel. You don't always need the most expensive of tickets to have an amazing time, although of course a little tutu purchase in a beautiful shop is always good fun! You see, even the simplest things can take on a magic touch in a foreign city. Yesterday evening, after my delightful afternoon spent getting lost amongst Pragueās streets, I ended up joining a small group of locals for some lively folk dancing on the banks of the river. You should see the intricate costumes they wear! All lace, sequins and feathers, itās a visual feast! And guess what? We even shared a big plate of dumplings. If there's a place where eating a delicious meal under a clear starry sky while swaying to some music and being entertained by talented performers is just what the doctor ordered, it's in the Czech Republic, darlings! I don't know how they make their amazing dumplings, but they are sensational. And to top it off, everyone shared their home-made wines ā it's this sense of warmth and genuine hospitality that truly made my heart smile this trip!
Oh, darling, this city is so full of surprises! * And let's not forget my other *favourite method of travel, horses. There is so much to see and discover! The horse-drawn carriage is such an elegant way to move around the city! Do try it if you get the chance. I recommend it!
I am absolutely charmed, and I have a feeling this is just the beginning of many amazing adventures. Don't forget to join me for the second half of my Prague odyssey right here on Pink Tutu Blog, every Wednesday at 8pm. In the meantime, go on, have fun and try some Czech dumplings (if you donāt tell anyone, I might have eaten three) and I promise I'll be back next week with more updates!
Until next time, Love, Emma xxx
P.S Have you ever had the most glorious pink tutu experience? I would love to hear your stories in the comments! You know I am all for the most beautiful ballet shoes and tutus in all of history. Donāt forget, my dear darlings, pink is most definitely the way to go.
*(Stay tuned next week to learn about the Prague shopping trip and see photos!) *