Wednesday, 14th May 2003
Dearest fellow tutu enthusiasts!
Greetings from Vienna, where the air is thick with waltzes and the aroma of freshly baked strudel is enough to make even the most seasoned ballerina crave a sweet treat. I know, I know, a tutu-wearing, pink-obsessed gal like me venturing into the heart of classical music and imperial history may seem like a jarring juxtaposition. But trust me, the spirit of the tutu reigns supreme!
This week has been an absolute whirl, just like a delicate pirouette. It's been one of those weeks where you find yourself caught in the whirlwind of enchanting experiences. From elegant ballet performances that transported me to another era to stumbling upon the most breathtaking historical treasures, Vienna has truly swept me off my feet.
Speaking of sweeping, let's talk about my grand arrival. Did I mention I came by train? The rhythmic chugging of the carriage is oddly satisfying, isn't it? Especially when you're clad in a soft pink tulle skirt that billows dramatically in the breeze, making your journey look more like a scene from a vintage ballet film than a modern day commute.
Of course, once in Vienna, it wasn't long before I embarked on my grand sartorial quest. It's practically mandatory for me to visit any city's most charming boutiques. Luckily, Vienna doesn't disappoint! Think delicate lace blouses, exquisitely crafted silk scarves and even some perfectly-pink ballet shoes. I just can't resist the lure of a new tutu, especially when I find myself amidst the cobblestone streets of the city, a vibrant kaleidoscope of colours.
On my first evening here, I had the pleasure of attending a delightful performance by the Vienna State Opera. The grandeur of the building, the breathtaking sets and the powerful melodies sent shivers down my spine. Let me tell you, witnessing "Swan Lake" with a troupe of ballerinas clad in magnificent, swan-like tutus – that’s the stuff of dreams, darling! It was like stepping into a fairytale, an artistic oasis where grace, skill and exquisite beauty merged into a seamless symphony.
One of my absolute highlights this week was venturing into the Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna's very own regal spectacle. Its opulent rooms, with their crystal chandeliers, intricately carved furniture, and captivating art collections, were nothing short of dazzling. The gardens surrounding the palace were also a true sight for sore eyes. The sheer scale and grandeur of it all left me feeling like a ballerina twirling under a heavenly, fairytale-like dome.
But it wasn't just palaces and performances. My time here was punctuated with trips to charming cafes where I sipped Vienna’s famed coffee, indulging in sweet pastries that would make a pastry chef blush with envy. Each sip and each bite was a small taste of luxury, adding to the magic of my trip.
One of the unexpected treasures I stumbled upon was a little tucked-away museum dedicated to the history of ballet in Austria. You won't believe the magnificent collection of tutus! Some were from as early as the 1800s, and they just spoke volumes about the artistry and the evolution of dance costumes over the years. Imagine all the stories those tutus could tell – from the grand ballerinas who twirled within their tulle folds to the whispers of secrets carried on their delicate layers.
Of course, I wouldn’t be true to my Pink Tutu ethos without attempting a little bit of dance-inspired exploration. There’s something incredibly liberating about embracing a little waltz while discovering a new city. It makes you feel a bit more connected to the culture, wouldn’t you agree? And trust me, those impromptu waltzes with my pink tutu whipping around my legs make even the most mundane streets seem like an elegant ballroom.
However, it's not all twirling and glitter, my dearest readers. While I try my best to spread the joy of the tutu and bring some whimsy to the world, it's important to remember that our journey into ballet begins with our own steps. Whether you're a seasoned dancer, a ballet enthusiast or someone who's always dreamed of waltzing under the spotlight, there's always something new to explore and discover within this graceful and elegant art.
And remember, darling, don't let anyone tell you that you can't be a pink-tutu wearing ballerina, no matter what life throws at you! We're all dancers in our own unique way, twirling through life with a smile and a dash of sparkle.
I leave you now to soak in the vibrant charm of Vienna. But fear not, dear reader! My next blog post will be filled with more tales of dance, fashion, and fun!
Until then, may your days be filled with grace, laughter, and a whole lot of pink.
Keep on twirling!
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
*P.S. *Don't forget to join me on the 1st of June at the Palais Schönbrunn for an afternoon of delightful ballet performances by local artists. I promise, it'll be a delightful mix of history, elegance, and, of course, sparkling pink!
