#PinkTutuPrague Ballet in Prague 2018-03-21

Dearest tutu lovers,

This week, my travels have taken me to the heart of Europe, the beautiful, enchanting city of Prague. Imagine a cobbled city filled with magnificent medieval architecture, echoing with the footsteps of centuries gone by, and topped off with an ethereal golden light. It’s magical, just like the magic of ballet! I arrived at Praha hlavní nádraží (the main railway station), and straight away knew this was a city that understood elegance and history - even the station building itself was majestic, with ornate decorations that made you feel as if you’d stepped straight into a grand ballroom.

It was a beautiful Wednesday, and I’d had a lovely train journey to get here. A train journey to me is a very elegant and comfortable way to travel - there’s time to write up my blog, drink a cup of tea (from a beautiful china teacup, of course!), admire the passing scenery and make the most of my pink tutu. Oh, how I love pink tutus - the way they dance, the way they spin - I think a girl could never have too many tutus! My beautiful pink tulle tutu (which I just bought at the new shop in Buxton - let me know if you need recommendations - it’s amazing!) billowed out as I stepped off the train onto the platform, and the warm Prague air made me feel so excited. Prague, here I come!

I arrived at my hotel and immediately set out to explore, My first stop? Well, I just couldn’t resist a little wander round the shops to see what beautiful pink treasures awaited me. You wouldn’t believe it, I found the perfect pink fur-lined cloak at a gorgeous boutique on Národní třida street - imagine how chic this will look in my upcoming ballet performance! I was utterly thrilled with my find - every now and then you discover an absolute treasure while travelling. It is as much about the excitement of finding a lovely pink accessory as it is about getting something to wear.

Next up - a bite to eat at a cafe - my energy levels need replenishing! I opted for some traditional slovak vareniki dumplings – absolutely divine, especially when topped with sour cream, just perfect. You’ve simply got to try them if you come here! It’s good to fill up on traditional treats before an evening at the theatre, and as any ballet enthusiast will tell you - theatre demands an empty stomach for optimum concentration on the art of dance!

You wouldn’t believe what awaited me! The magnificent Estates Theatre (Stavovské divadlo in Czech) is famous as the place where the world premiere of Mozart’s opera "Don Giovanni" was staged in 1787 - imagine, this theatre is almost three centuries old and I had the opportunity to stand within its walls. This evening, I was here to experience the world renowned "Prague Spring International Music Festival" . I decided to book tickets for the performance by “Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo” – I heard they’re brilliant and they do a lot of great classic ballet pieces. The music of Mozart and a little tutu dancing - pure bliss! There were two main things I love about the “Prague Spring” festival. First, the focus on classical music – what better complement to a pink tutu! Second, the festival attracts world class performers - there really is nothing more magical than a world class ballet show - the music, the dancers, the costumes - I’ve loved ballet ever since I was a little girl - I used to stand in my own tiny tutu and dream of becoming a famous ballerina.

I slipped on my new fur-lined pink cloak, and off I went to the Estates Theatre - just a short walk from my hotel! I must admit that it wasn’t all glamour, but then again I like the way Prague throws up surprises at every turn! Just before arriving, I had to navigate through a rather long queue – as soon as I reached the theatre I discovered that there was a strike amongst public transport workers so my graceful, leisurely stroll to the theatre was turned into an interesting sprint. You can tell that I did arrive at the theatre, pink tutu and pink cloak swishing, in quite a breathless, sweaty, slightly manic fashion. I mean, all of that is pretty standard, especially when it involves tutus, and that was all worth it when I sat down in the beautiful theatre, feeling the luxurious plush seats against my delicate pink silk tutu - an absolutely heavenly combination!

What did I think of the show? I’m delighted to tell you - absolutely brilliant! “Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo” played to a packed house and were utterly superb! I love the way this troupe has this blend of ballet with comedy and some seriously witty humour – there were moments of high art, laughter, and applause, the show really did provide everything! The performance was as much a triumph for its beauty as it was for its energy and humor. If you ever have the chance, go and see this ballet company, they’re phenomenal - I hope you’ll be enchanted too!

To get back to my hotel, I simply hopped on one of the yellow trams that take you right through the Old Town Square. I just couldn’t resist taking a few photos! The Charles Bridge in the evening light was truly magnificent and you really get to appreciate the majesty of Prague Castle from here. You’ll be hearing all about my explorations of this fascinating city and all my travel discoveries next week, so don't forget to visit again!

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As always, remember the world's full of wonders – go out there, have an adventure and maybe, just maybe, slip into a pink tutu - or get a pink tutu friend to accompany you – let’s get the world wearing pink tutus! Until next week – enjoy the pinkness!