Dearest Tutu-lovers!
This is your Wednesday dose of Pink Tutu fun, straight from the heart of Vienna! As I sit here, penning this from my charming little guest house, I can't help but be awash in a sea of pink - both from the exquisite blooming wisteria climbing the facade and from the delightfully feminine tulle I'm swirling around my legs. My fellow Tutu-istas, we're in Vienna, the city of waltzes, Strauss, and, of course, unparalleled elegance!
This week has been a whirlwind of ballet and beauty. My journey began in Derbyshire, where I gave a thrilling performance for the local dance school. The students were so enthusiastic, and even though the youngest among them barely reached my knee, they pirouetted with such joyous abandon! I must admit, performing for children always re-ignites that spark of passion within me. It’s a constant reminder of why I love this art form so much.
I’m off to the capital of Austria this time, to perform at a glorious concert hall right by the Schönbrunn Palace, so you know my tutu is already twirling in anticipation! The city has embraced me with open arms, and even the pigeons seem to be strutting about with a newfound grace (perhaps inspired by my presence?). The buildings here, oh my, they’re like something out of a fairy tale – gilded and intricate, each one a symphony of colours.
Now, before I regale you with my Vienna adventures, I must indulge in a moment of sartorial contemplation. There’s just something about this city that brings out the maximalist in me! Today’s outfit is a vision of sugary pink, fit for a princess (which I most certainly am in my heart, tutu and all!). A full, billowing skirt with an elaborate, pink floral appliqué, a dainty ribbon tied into a bow around my neck, and – of course – a delicate ballerina pink tutu that peeks out from under the skirt, revealing a peek-a-boo glimpse of sheer elegance. It's all about embracing the grandeur, darling!
Speaking of grandeur, imagine my excitement when I stepped off the train and found myself surrounded by stunning horse-drawn carriages! Vienna's charm is so wonderfully preserved, even down to the quaint details of transportation. My heart practically skipped a beat as I hopped into a luxurious carriage, and, as we slowly rolled through the city streets, I couldn't help but imagine myself as a beautiful noblewoman, twirling down a cobblestone lane. You see, there's a certain grace about horse-drawn carriage rides that just can't be replicated in modern vehicles! It's all about slowness, deliberate movement, and enjoying the journey.
My travels have led me through enchanting cobblestone alleys, lined with picturesque cafes and blooming gardens. Each corner unveils a hidden gem: stately fountains, charming bookstores, and delightful pastry shops filled with Vienna’s iconic sachertorte! Oh, my dears, the pastries here are heavenly – every bite is a testament to the exquisite art of pastry-making!
I'm planning to delve into the rich tapestry of Vienna's ballet history today! It's hard to believe, but the ballet traditions here reach back centuries. Think graceful movements, exquisite costumes, and dramatic narratives woven together in a whirlwind of emotion. I can already feel the enchantment in the air.
There's a special kind of magic in discovering hidden ballet secrets! I’ve just uncovered a small antique shop tucked away in a quiet courtyard. And, wonder of wonders, it houses a breathtaking collection of tutus from the early 20th century! Imagine: tutus made from the most delicate tulle, adorned with sparkling crystals and vibrant silk flowers, and embroidered with intricate patterns - the workmanship is exquisite. Just browsing through those tutus brought back a wave of history and inspired a flurry of creative ideas! I simply had to snag a pair of antique, floral-embellished ballet shoes. You know me - can't resist a bit of history.
And who better to tell us about the city’s secrets than a fellow tutu-lover? A local Viennese ballerina, Sophie, has become my delightful guide and a charming companion on my waltz through Vienna's streets. We've had an afternoon of coffee and conversation about our shared passion, indulging in cakes at the cafe that overlooks the city's iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Sophie's insights into Vienna's ballet history and the ballet world here have been invaluable! She's such a passionate ballerina herself - and with a grace and talent that matches her exquisite pink-toned tutus (always sporting an adorable miniature version for her pet chihuahua!). It’s simply enchanting!
This evening, I will be taking in the most incredible ballet performance at the Vienna State Opera House. It’s “The Sleeping Beauty”, one of my all-time favorites, with costumes that are simply dazzling. Oh, I simply adore ballet, and especially those elegant tutus with all the ruffles and swirls! It’s not just a performance - it’s a spectacle, a symphony of graceful movements, and vibrant storytelling. I know you can just feel my excitement!
The night air here is alive with music, and I just had to dance with a local couple beneath the flickering lanterns in a small courtyard. Vienna truly is a city where the air is filled with waltzing rhythms. Even the old-world architecture seems to dance.
And now, before I succumb to the call of a sweet dream about pink tutus and dancing with the waltz king himself, I want to leave you with this, my darling Tutu-istas!
Spread your wings and explore, embrace your unique sparkle, and, most importantly, never ever be afraid to twirl your tutu! It's the little moments that make life a beautiful ballet, and sometimes, you just need to grab your tutu and "let it rip."
Until next week!
Love, Emma x
P.S. You can catch up on all the exciting adventures of a pink tutu and a beautiful ballerina, just like me, every Wednesday on www.pink-tutu.com. Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming performance dates near you, as I’m traveling around the globe, sharing my love for pink, tutus, and, of course, ballet. And don't forget, my dear tutu enthusiasts, a life without twirling is no life at all!
