Well, hello lovelies! Emma here, fresh from another adventure and raring to share all the Viennese delights with you. As usual, it’s Wednesday, so you know what that means – another Pink Tutu Vienna blog post! Grab your fanciest teacup, settle in and let’s waltz our way through a week of frills, fun and fabulous fashion.
I arrived in Vienna last Saturday, feeling like a true ballerina – it felt like stepping into one of those gorgeous classic ballet sets! My travels started, as always, on the train from Derbyshire, where my lovely mum always sees me off with a kiss and a pink pom-pom – her little ritual for good luck. You see, even my mum's a pink tutu supporter!
Now, you might wonder how I finance all this globetrotting, and that, my dears, is where the magic of ballet really shines through! Every week I perform at a different theatre, whether it's in the West End or a cosy regional venue, spreading the love of dance wherever I go. Each performance helps fund the next exciting adventure, and this week it’s brought me to the heart of waltz and wonder!
Speaking of wonder, Vienna just takes your breath away. The city itself is an elaborate ballroom with grand avenues, gilded architecture, and parks brimming with the soft music of strolling musicians. I just can’t help but twirl when I walk down those beautiful cobblestone streets!
Of course, my first stop had to be the Vienna State Opera House, the beating heart of classical ballet in the city. It was like a fairy tale come to life – all gilded balconies, velvet seats and soaring ceilings. I even snagged a coveted spot for a performance of Swan Lake, where the dancers moved with such elegance and grace. It was pure enchantment, like watching my favourite ballerina dreams come alive!
The city's history with dance is fascinating, isn't it? From the time of the Habsburg monarchs, Vienna has always been synonymous with grace, elegance, and the waltz, making it a must-visit for any pink-loving ballerina. The Imperial Waltz was the dance that everyone learned, from emperors to ordinary folk, and it truly captured the magic of this city. Even today, you can't escape the waltz – it whispers from the streets, the shops, and even the cafes.
I spent Monday exploring the ballet world of Vienna. In the afternoon, I headed for a delightful little dance studio tucked away in a charming backstreet. You'd never know the treasures hidden within these old city buildings, darling! There, in a beautifully-lit room, a group of girls were taking a ballet class, so elegant and graceful, learning the perfect way to point their toes and gracefully float across the room. They were quite a talented bunch, I must say. As an enthusiastic ballet enthusiast, I simply had to pop in to watch!
I had to remind myself to pull myself away – shopping awaited, darling! Imagine, a shop filled with tutus, each one prettier than the last! This vintage boutique, hidden in a tiny alley, had rows of feather boas, satin ballet shoes, and a selection of gorgeous vintage tutus! Some were so intricately adorned with pearls and feathers that they were practically art pieces, and they had one in particular, made of silk and adorned with delicate roses – pure pink perfection, of course – that practically called my name. I think I might have found myself a new stage costume…
Speaking of fashion, did I tell you that this week Vienna was abuzz with the launch of their annual Opera Ball? Oh darling, imagine! A celebration of ballet, opera and all things luxurious! Of course, I couldn’t resist heading to a grand hotel where the grand ball was being held. The grandeur of the ballrooms and the stunning dresses were incredible – each more opulent than the last. It was a real treat to see the dancers in their elaborate costumes, all twirling in a whirlwind of pink, glitter and tulle. It truly was a dream come true to watch such exquisite performers – the dancers’ elegance, the musicians’ symphony, and the luxurious atmosphere combined to create a truly magical night!
That leads us to the present moment! Today’s an exciting day. The first thing on my agenda is a visit to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, for a classical concert. I've already planned a trip to Schönbrunn Palace to enjoy the gardens – it looks simply beautiful in all the pictures – and then I’ll be indulging in my favourite Viennese tradition, a delicious “Sacher-Torte”! A Viennese chocolate cake with a velvety layer of apricot jam and a dusting of powdered sugar – a culinary delight that’s truly fit for a princess.
Vienna is truly the epitome of refined grace. It's a place where even the smallest details are celebrated with artistry, where each day brings new discoveries, and where every corner whispers a timeless tale of elegance and beauty. Oh darling, my heart has been captured by this magical city.
Remember, dear readers, you don't need to be in Vienna to enjoy the magic of ballet. It's waiting for you just outside your doorstep, in the way the sun glints on a window, the soft flutter of leaves on a breezy day, or the delicate grace of a robin landing on a branch. Find those moments of magic and let your heart take flight! And if you see me in your local theatre, come and say hello!
Until next Wednesday, my lovelies, keep twirling and spreading your pink tutu love!
Emma x
