Hello my lovely Tutuettes! It's Emma, back from another magical trip - this time, to the enchanting city of Vienna!
Oh Vienna, you are truly a dream come true for a pink-loving, tutu-wearing ballerina like myself. This week has been absolutely jam-packed with waltzes, waltzes and more waltzes – but don't worry, I haven't forgotten about our favourite topic – the history of tutus!
Now, if you're reading this, you already know that my favourite mode of transport is by train. So of course, my journey to Vienna involved a delightful journey through the beautiful German countryside. The train ride itself was an experience, with picturesque landscapes flashing past the window, creating a ballet of green meadows, rolling hills, and majestic forests. I had my nose firmly stuck in a book about the history of tutus, tracing their evolution from the elegant, flowing costumes of the Romantic era to the modern, technical wonders that dancers wear today.
The journey itself was almost a performance! I arrived in Vienna feeling a wave of excitement – the city itself is steeped in history, but more importantly, it’s the birthplace of some of the world's most iconic ballet composers and choreographers! My inner ballerina was practically bouncing with anticipation.
Vienna has this beautiful old-world charm – think grand cafes, horse-drawn carriages, and stunning architecture. It’s truly a sight to behold, especially when you throw a touch of pink into the mix! And of course, my beloved pink tutu made a grand entrance, creating quite the stir on the streets.
My first stop? The Vienna State Opera. The magnificent facade of this opera house is enough to take your breath away – but the inside is even more spectacular. It’s like a fairy tale palace, and I couldn't help but spin around in my tutu as I explored its vast corridors and opulent interior. This opera house, as you might guess, is renowned for its impeccable productions of classic operas and ballets. My heart did a little twirl when I realised this is the home to one of my favourite ballets, "Giselle"! It’s on my ‘must-see’ list for this visit.
Speaking of ballet, my stay in Vienna has been a whirlwind of performances. From a mesmerising show at the Volkstheater featuring the most stunning choreography I've seen to an impromptu waltz performance at a local pub - it’s been a true immersion into the world of Viennese culture.
But no trip to Vienna would be complete without a little bit of shopping, would it? This week has been filled with a dash of shopping in the heart of the city. I must confess, Vienna has a very special place in my heart when it comes to finding some truly unique tutus! There is this beautiful little boutique tucked away on a charming side street that stocks an incredible range of tulle and netting. I ended up spending hours there, creating my own designs with their help - and of course, picking up some gorgeous new pink tutu material!
Of course, no shopping trip is complete without indulging in the local delights. Vienna is famed for its incredible pastries, especially the decadent Sachertorte, which is simply divine! (Don’t worry, I found a way to balance out my delicious indulgences with some light ballet exercises! I'm all about keeping my pink tutu in tip-top shape!)
And here’s something special about Vienna - it’s a city where horse-drawn carriages are still a common sight! It’s not every day that you get to ride through the heart of a European capital with a graceful horse pulling your carriage. I must admit, this was a little indulgence that truly completed my Viennese experience! I envisioned myself as a Victorian ballerina from the past, travelling in elegance. I’m actually trying to think of ways to add horses to my tutu training regimen... what do you think, my dear Tutuettes?
Speaking of traditions, did you know that the iconic Viennese Waltz is actually a dance? I found the most delightful old dance school in the city centre – an elegant little studio with mirrored walls and faded wooden floors, like stepping into a ballroom of a bygone era! There, they held special waltz lessons that transport you back in time, feeling like a dancer in a glamorous waltz at the Imperial Court!
Oh my Tutuettes, Vienna has stolen my heart! I have to say, if you’re ever planning a trip, do try to incorporate a trip here! But remember, there's something extra special about Vienna, and that's its rich ballet history. The Viennese Waltz and the Strauss Family are just a tiny part of the intricate ballet tapestry woven into Vienna's fabric!
Well, I must say good-bye for now, my dears. But promise me this - I know there’s at least one tutu lover out there dreaming of a trip to Vienna! Let me know what you’d want to see and do if you came here – maybe your dreams and mine can inspire each other to start planning for the future!
Until next week, Tutuettes! Remember - wear pink and always spin with a smile.
Love,
Emma xxx
