Wednesday, 30th December 1998
Darling readers,
How do you do? It's Emma here, back from the grandest adventure! Vienna, you were just magical. From the moment I stepped off the train and saw that breathtaking city skyline, to the final flourish of the waltz in the Opera House, Vienna cast a spell. You see, dear readers, Iām a bit of a history buff. The story of ballet in Vienna, the emperors, the grand ballsā¦ itās like stepping into a Jane Austen novel with twirling ballerinas!
From Derbyshire to Vienna by Train:
Now, I do adore my travels, but thereās something particularly enchanting about a train journey. You get to gaze out of the window, soaking in the scenery, letting your mind wander to faraway lands and exciting dreams. Plus, the plush velvet seats and complimentary coffee make the whole affair even more decadent.
My adventure started with a trip from Derbyshire, that charming corner of England, to the bright lights of London, where I indulged in a rather delicious afternoon tea. I always feel that a good cuppa with clotted cream and jam biscuits sets the tone for a grand escapade. From London, it was a short hop to Paris, where I couldnāt resist a spot of shopping, you see. Pink tutus, always! And let's not forget, a few silk scarves for my growing collection. After a whirlwind night in the city of lights, I boarded the train for Vienna.
First Impressions: A City Steeped in Ballet
Upon arrival in Vienna, I was completely bowled over. This city exudes a romantic air. Grand buildings adorned with delicate, intricate details stand proudly against the backdrop of rolling hills. And the streets? Oh, the streets are abuzz with the symphony of life. There are street performers playing lively music, artists sketching portraits, and horse-drawn carriages taking passengers on delightful strolls. I admit, I felt a tad impulsive and indulged in a charming horse and carriage ride, just to embrace that truly Viennese atmosphere!
A Trip to the Opera: A Touch of Grandeur
Naturally, I wouldnāt be in Vienna without witnessing a performance at the famed Vienna State Opera. Itās truly an architectural wonder ā adorned with gold leaf and dazzling chandeliers, it makes one feel as though theyāve stepped into a fairytale. I went to see āThe Nutcrackerā. The music, the sets, the dancersā¦ everything was just perfection. Even though the ballet world knows it quite well, Viennaās Nutcracker, is an annual event! They donāt do a ballet here, they donāt DO ITā¦. They PRESENT it, donāt you think?
Oh, and I couldnāt resist sporting my brand-new pink tutu! (Naturally!) It felt like the perfect accompaniment to this exquisite evening of music and dance. Several onlookers asked to take pictures of me!
Ballet Memories:
And speaking of ballet, did you know that the history of ballet in Vienna is almost as grand as the city itself? From the days of Emperor Franz Joseph to the legendary Anna Pavlova and Rudolf Nureyev, Vienna has witnessed some of the most beautiful and intricate ballet performances ever conceived. Every turn, every arabesque whispered a story. Thereās even a fantastic museum dedicated to the history of ballet, where I got lost in an enchanting display of old costumes, handwritten manuscripts and antique tutus.
A Day in the Ballet School
Another highlight of my Viennese adventure was a visit to the prestigious Vienna State Opera Ballet School. It was an extraordinary sight ā to watch aspiring young ballerinas practise their pliĆ©s, pirouettes, and leaps with such elegance and dedication. It's almost unbelievable to witness young talents dedicated to perfection! They even let me join a few of the classes (my feet were quite stiff, darling readers, from the long train journey). I even learnt a few moves from the young stars, I swear it!
Fashion in Vienna
Now, Vienna wouldnāt be complete without indulging in its vibrant fashion scene. From luxurious designer boutiques to charming little vintage stores, the city is a haven for style enthusiasts like myself. There were some beautiful silk dresses in pastel pink and vibrant pinks in one of the department stores I visited. Just darling!
My Advice: Wear a Pink Tutu in Vienna
Oh darling, let me tell you - donāt be shy, wear a pink tutu! As you saunter through the magnificent squares and ancient alleyways of Vienna, the vibrant pink will blend right in, a joyful, eye-catching touch to your explorations. It makes a bold statement about your love for art, your dedication to your dream of a ballet performance life, and a touch of a playful personality. It is just an essential item in Viennaās dress code!
You may be thinking, why Vienna, what could possibly be so special about a pink tutu? Itās Vienna ā the city of art, music and elegance. Where ballet is not just an art form, itās a way of life. And a pink tutu? Itās the epitome of feminine charm. What's not to love?
Vienna is the city of dreamers and doers. I felt like both, a girl who dreams of performing, yet doing something extraordinary every day. It is not just about wearing a tutu, itās about that passion that gets you there. The passion, the love and joy of the magic of pink tutus.
See you next Wednesday!
Warmly,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
