Hello darlings! Itās Emma, back from Prague, the city that stole my heart, not just with its charm, but also with its endless possibilities for pink tulle twirls! š
This week, I'm sharing all the secrets of a fairytale trip that truly lived up to the hype! It was like stepping into one of those beautiful illustrated storybooks, with cobbled streets winding past grand castles, charming cafes overflowing with laughter, and of course, an enchanting ballet performance that made me feel like a true princess! āØ
Reaching Prague by Train and Pony...Okay, Just Train!
I travelled from Derbyshire, England, to Prague by train, and it was truly an experience. The carriage was so plush, and I got to gaze at the gorgeous countryside flitting past my window ā think fields of sunflowers, ancient castles and charming little villages. I always find train journeys so inspiring, especially when I'm travelling with my trusty companion: my favourite pink suitcase, filled with the perfect ballet wardrobe. suitcases are not typically designed to fit a tutu, so I always have to pack it on top or carefully around my things. The pink case really stands out on the luggage carousel at stations, and thatās part of the fun! It is an extra, and unusual conversation starter, particularly when I am in foreign countries. This time, the guy at the station told me, "you won't need to look for your suitcase - I will know it when I see it". I like that he noticed my suitcase and, after a moment's chat about tutus, we decided we'd go watch "Giselle" together! You never know who you might meet, right?
My Prague Agenda: Shopping, Sights, and Tutu-licious Ballet!
The first thing I did upon arrival was to explore the Old Town Square - it's like stepping back in time! The Astronomical Clock, with its colourful parade of characters, was fascinating, and I just couldn't resist having my photo taken in front of the iconic statue of the martyr King Charles IV. Did I tell you I had picked up a new tutu in Derbyshire? The colour matched the Clock Tower in the square, perfect for this spot! I even managed to do a mini-pirouette or two while everyone else just gaped, mesmerised. They probably wondered who this pink whirlwind had invaded their city.
Next, I was on a mission to find the best boutiques for clothes! Shopping is a major part of any ballet blogger's life, especially when in a new city! Pragueās shops didn't disappoint. The boutiques overflowed with unique styles and colourful treasures, from Bohemian gypsy chic to modern, edgy fashion. Of course, I found the most amazing collection of pastel pink silk scarves and statement earrings at a little vintage shop, which were a must-buy for any fashionable ballerina like myself. And speaking of fashionable ballerinasā¦ let's talk ballet!
A Dream Performance: A Tutu Tale to Tell
The highlight of my trip was undoubtedly the performance at the National Theatre. My trip coincided with their presentation of the famous Pink Tutus Prague Ballet Company, which is why I came. The program was a beautiful mix of modern and classical ballet with a contemporary twist - which is exactly the kind of choreography I love! And of course, they had the most gorgeous tutus. The main dancer, a girl called Marta, told me the tutu that she danced in during the grand pas de deux was one-of-a-kind! I managed to steal a quick selfie with her after the performance, which now adorns my social media feeds.
They danced with such passion and grace. Every movement told a story, and the stage design, full of dramatic backdrops, magical lighting and dazzling costumes, was just incredible. I found myself completely absorbed, swept away in the narrative, experiencing an overwhelming range of emotions from love and joy to sadness and fear. By the end, I was buzzing with excitement, and my soul felt lighter, cleansed, and renewed - I even felt inspired to practice!
Ballet Through the Centuries: History on the Scene
After my magical evening at the theatre, I made sure to visit the stunning National Theatre Museum. It's packed with ballet history - Iām talking costumes from bygone eras, photos of legendary dancers and ballet manuscripts. They have one entire gallery dedicated to the development of the tutu! Iād never realised there was so much history, research and design, behind something as seemingly simple as the iconic ballet garment. It took me on a journey through the ages - from the rigid corseted tutus of the 18th century to the billowing, romantic styles of the 19th century and the modern interpretations of today. It made me think: why do we even have tutus anyway? How did they become synonymous with ballet? What is the future of tutus going to be like?
Pink Tutu Power: My Prague Ballet Style Inspiration
You guys know I adore tutus, so my trip wouldn't have been complete without wearing my own to explore Prague. It made me feel empowered, elegant, and a bit mischievous! I canāt recommend wearing a pink tutu enough, even for just a short stroll around town.
People love to see you in it! One morning, I was wearing my favourite one, a bubblegum pink number that almost hit the floor with its floaty layers, when I was invited by a family of tourists to join them for their group photos in the Old Town Square. Another time, as I passed through Charles Bridge, a group of local schoolchildren excitedly shouted, āThereās a ballerina!ā and clapped!
Seeing children smile in Prague reminded me of how much magic ballet brings to peopleās lives - it doesn't matter how young or old, where youāre from or what you look like. Even if people arenāt actually taking ballet lessons, it seems thereās a little ballerina within everyone who enjoys the graceful movements and expressive power of the art form!
Letās get everyone in pink tutus, one at a time! And don't forget, check out my website, www.pink-tutu.com for updates on my next tutu adventure, a weekend trip to Vienna. Stay stylish and sparkly, my darlings! š