Hello my darlings! It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for another installment of my Prague adventures, and oh my, this week has been utterly enchanting! As you know, I’m all about chasing ballet dreams around the globe, and this week, Prague has delivered some real show-stoppers.
Firstly, can we talk about Prague itself? This city is a real-life fairytale, with cobbled streets, charming cafes, and grand architecture that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time. And it's bursting with history - I mean, even the city's iconic Charles Bridge was built back in the 14th century! Imagine how many tutu-wearing ballerinas have crossed it since then. 😉
Of course, a trip to Prague wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its renowned ballet scene, and let me tell you, it is blooming spectacular!
I’ve been keeping my eyes peeled for the perfect ballet show, and look no further because I have stumbled upon a real gem, folks! Pink Tutu Prague is a ballet production running tonight (15th May 2024), and oh my, I am SO excited to see it! I’ve heard amazing things – Pink Tutu Prague promises an unforgettable evening of classical and contemporary ballet with a stunning stage production, incredible dancers, and of course, a healthy dose of pink. They even have a limited edition pink tutu for sale exclusively during the production, which I'm definitely snapping up for my collection! 😉
Tutu Time
Talking of tutus, let's take a moment to discuss the history of this utterly iconic garment.
While you might think the tutu was a late invention, its origins actually go back to the early 1800s, inspired by Romantic Ballet. The “Romantic” era saw an emergence of ballet with supernatural and fairytale themes. You might remember Giselle, Swan Lake, and La Sylphide, those beautiful and powerful romantic ballet classics – all these performances showcase those short, full skirts you now know as Romantic tutus.
The romantic era favoured shorter skirts because it allowed for more agility, fluidity, and expression in movements. It’s how dancers were able to express the grace and light spirit of ballerinas dancing as ethereal and mystical figures on stage.
The more elaborate and recognisable tutu we know today came with the advent of Classical Ballet, also known as the 19th-century Ballet Technique, and is often called “the French School”. This saw ballet taking on more complex, and often faster movements, which led to a change in the design of the tutu as well. It was to allow for easier, wider and longer movements that weren't hindered by excessive fabric.
Since then, the tutu has taken on all shapes and sizes – you might be familiar with the full-length tutus – those bell-shaped and graceful garments that really show off those grand and intricate pirouettes! I even once spotted a tutu designed by a top couture house made from iridescent sequins – so elegant, but I wouldn't know where I’d find an occasion for such glamour!
The history of tutus is an integral part of the history of dance – It's about a revolution in the art of ballet, with those tutus changing in accordance with the demands of movement and technique – and of course, the tutu's ever evolving design has come to express the changing image of the ballerina over the centuries.
To The Train
Of course, with my itinerary filled to the brim with ballet performances and city strolls, I've had to find the most charming and efficient way to explore this magnificent city! So, after many considerations, I've decided to rely on the good old-fashioned train!
Now, I know what you might be thinking – a tutu and train? It does sound a little avant garde at first glance, doesn’t it? But let me tell you, it has been quite the experience! Not to mention practical!
There’s something absolutely romantic about stepping aboard those charming European trains – you get that sense of the adventure unfolding before you! And imagine – you get the benefit of soaking up all the gorgeous sights through the windows. It’s blissful!
I’ve even encountered a few friendly faces who seemed to find my travel style amusingly chic! One even said, “Your pink tutu and train combination is quite the fashionable choice!* You certainly have your own personal style! So darling! * – And let’s be honest, who wouldn't want a little dare and drama in their travel outfits, huh?!
From Horses To Prague
I know you're curious, my dears, and you must be wondering: how exactly did a ballet loving girl from Derbyshire find herself in a charming, historic city like Prague in the first place? Well, let’s take a walk down memory lane together shall we?
It’s a journey filled with passion, determination, and yes – even a few horses. 🐎
I come from a very special little village in the heart of Derbyshire and yes, my journey began with a love of ballet from the very start. In those early days, I’d dream of pirouette's while skipping through sun-drenched meadows and watching those charming grey mares and ponies roaming through those verdant fields. My little ballerina shoes felt like magic – taking me into my very own world of grace and wonder.
My path to becoming a ballerina involved lots of dedication. Hours of practise at the local ballet academy where I would perfect every move – and always sporting my favourite pink tutus of course! But I wouldn't let the pressure of pursuing a dancing career hinder my adventures – so after each performance, I’d always set off on those magnificent journeys of discovery – which, often led me to explore the surrounding towns on a good old fashioned pony!
Let’s face it, you don’t have to travel the globe in style. It’s about finding your unique journey!
I even met this one absolutely fabulous and utterly eccentric fashion designer – a man who I like to call The Pink Maestro! I swear he lived in the world of sequins, silks, and feathers and would always boast about “spreading the message of pink!” His life motto was *“Pink! A symphony of life’s pleasures”! *
Well, I can't help but think I got my love for pink from him. He also said, " You can't have too many tutus," which I consider his words to be the ultimate inspiration! The Pink Maestro certainly inspired me to bring my ballerina’s spirit to those amazing journeys around Europe – which leads us to today – dancing in the heart of Prague! I can honestly say it’s been quite a journey of whimsy and wonder but the pink tutu has always led the way!
To New Heights
My dears, we all dream of that “magical something” – something to transport us to that ultimate ballet stage where our love for dancing becomes something truly spectacular – a way to connect to something far greater than ourselves! I think that dream starts within each and every one of us – I firmly believe it’s that love of ballet – and that love of life’s extravaganzas – that really sets those dreams soaring!
I think it is time for me to head to the Pink Tutu Prague theatre - My tutu is ready. I'm ready to twirl with my fellow dancers, and immerse myself in the magic of ballet and the beauty of Prague.
See you all soon my dears!
