#PinkTutuPrague Ballet in Prague 2019-10-23

Hello, darlings! It's Emma, your resident Pink Tutu Princess, writing to you from the utterly enchanting city of Prague! My heart is brimming with a sweet symphony of delight, thanks to the magic of this charming, historical, and utterly captivating city.

This week, it’s time to put my dancing shoes to good use as I hop aboard a charming vintage train to whisk me away from Derbyshire, England to the heart of Bohemia. It's been a long time since my last train journey – and frankly, the world needs more steamy, vintage locomotives. Don’t you agree? But fear not, the journey is all part of the adventure, a ballet of steam and speed and swaying landscapes that takes me deeper into this enchanting corner of Europe.

As the train pulled into the station in Prague, my eyes widened in amazement at the grand, colourful, majestic spires reaching skyward. I couldn't resist stepping out into the bustling cobbled streets, my pink tutu twirling in delight!

I was incredibly excited to spend a day exploring the stunning Prague National Theatre. It's a monument to creativity and architectural brilliance, standing tall on the banks of the Vltava river. What's even more thrilling, my sweet dears, is that tonight is a ballet night, and I’ll be catching a performance by the acclaimed Ballet Prague company.

Before I even stepped into the theatre, the history and stories behind it captivated me! Built in the late 1800s, this architectural masterpiece witnessed some incredible moments. Even the history of its design is like a dance! After the original burned down in a fire, they had to find a solution for their architectural nightmare! It was the renowned architect, Josef Zítek, who conjured up a breathtaking plan that truly paid homage to the historical past. With the majestic combination of Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau elements, he resurrected the theatre.

Speaking of artistic visions, let's dive into a touch of the history of ballet. Prague's ballet legacy dates back to the early 17th century! It started small, then developed into elaborate court ballets performed for nobles, a spectacle of dance and grace. What better way to experience the magic of Prague than by diving into a ballet performance, a whirlwind of artistry and talent that transports me to another world!

Stepping into the National Theatre feels like stepping back in time, yet with a timeless elegance. I'm giddy with excitement as the first chords of the orchestra cascade through the air. Every aspect of the theater screams "perfection", from the lavish interior, with its opulent chandeliers, to the intricately carved details that whisper tales of grand opera nights and legendary performances. And, of course, let’s not forget about the costumes. From shimmering silk gowns to the soft swish of a ballerina’s tutu, the costumes add another layer to the magic. It's like a ballet-inspired dream come true!

I found myself transported to a different realm as the dancers took to the stage. They glided effortlessly across the polished stage, their movements telling stories of love, loss, and hope with elegance and finesse. Each gesture, every leap, every pirouette, spoke volumes. And, my darling readers, the way the spotlights shone on the graceful dancers - well, it’s almost impossible to capture that kind of beauty!

Ballet has been a love of mine for as long as I can remember. Those graceful leaps, the precise movements, the delicate pointe work – each detail feels like a small but magical secret that brings such joy. So, what’s better than seeing a performance by professionals, you ask? A ballet class, of course! Prague has a vibrant dance scene, so after my evening performance at the National Theatre, I booked myself in for a delightful beginner ballet class! It’s the perfect opportunity for a tutu-filled workout – even a tiny bit of graceful movement does wonders for your mood, don't you agree? The atmosphere in the dance studio was light and warm. We warmed up with exercises, focusing on core strength and fluidity of movement. It’s such a beautiful feeling when you master a challenging movement, so graceful, so elegant! I could feel myself becoming part of this magical community – even as a beginner, I felt welcomed with open arms.

In between performances and ballet classes, I decided to embrace the whimsical allure of Prague with a spirited pony ride. My trusty pink tutu went everywhere with me, even when riding through the city parks and the lovely medieval areas! I found a small, charming stable just on the outskirts of the Old Town, the ponies there had such a sweet temperament! A short trot on their back led me along hidden cobbled alleyways, revealing small courtyards overflowing with beautiful blooms and charming boutiques – there were also an awful lot of pastel-coloured walls! So incredibly chic and dreamy! You know, Prague really feels like it came out of a fairytale - it’s perfect for a daydream in a tutu.

Speaking of shopping, Prague truly stole my heart when it came to fashion finds. There were independent boutiques overflowing with beautiful clothing, perfect for the discerning pink tutu devotee. After a stroll through the cobbled streets, I was so delighted to discover an old vintage dress shop, the interior like a charming, hidden paradise of flowing fabrics, elegant styles and so many vintage finds! It was the perfect opportunity to discover some timeless and chic designs for my wardrobe. They had just what I was looking for – an enchanting array of beautifully crafted floral print vintage dresses, perfect for twirling and dancing to a waltz. And yes, I did splurge on one with the most magnificent floral pattern – pink flowers on a dusty rose backdrop, with a gorgeous cinched-in waist – a piece of fashion magic that made me truly feel like I stepped out of a fairy tale. I can't wait to dance in it.

My dear friends, it's truly been a magnificent week! Prague’s enchanting combination of captivating architecture, delectable cuisine, rich history and delightful cobbled streets leaves a permanent impression on the soul! And as you know, this Pink Tutu Princess isn't leaving without some exciting travel inspiration for you.

If you’re planning your own journey to Prague, there's truly something for everyone, regardless of whether your heart longs for fairytale adventures or architectural explorations! Here's a taste of Prague:

The Must-Sees:

• The Charles Bridge: This historic masterpiece bridges time and beauty, linking Prague's charming sides together with its stunning views. I couldn't resist grabbing my phone and taking some snapshots! It’s also an enchanting place to find souvenirs for yourself or your loved ones back home!

• The Old Town Square: As a pink tutu enthusiast, I was especially charmed by this lively centre! From its intricate clock tower to its colorful historical buildings, this square is teeming with stories and magic. The grand gothic churches, vibrant marketplaces, and the stunning architectural structures will leave you with breathtaking memories of the Czech Republic.

• Prague Castle: What would be a fairytale without a majestic castle, right? Situated high above the city, it’s a powerful architectural landmark, boasting views that sweep across Prague and beyond. Make sure to wander around the enchanting grounds - it’s full of peaceful gardens and picturesque cafes for afternoon tea!

Prague truly feels like it's straight out of a fairytale. Even as a busy metropolis, this city has a way of enchanting and captivating hearts with its captivating history and timeless beauty.

I am incredibly thankful to this beautiful city that has given me the most extraordinary memories, making my week a dreamy spectacle of beautiful ballet performances, vintage boutiques and whimsical discoveries. It’s time to twirl my way back to England, filled with Prague's captivating spirit, but, darling readers, know this – this pink tutu princess will be back soon!

Until next week, may your week be filled with pink, tulle, and dreams! Don’t forget to check in at www.pink-tutu.com next Wednesday for another inspiring post.