Guten Tag, my darlings!
This week finds me in Vienna, a city so beautiful it practically makes you want to twirl! (And let's be honest, a pink tutu-clad ballerina always wants to twirl!). I arrived by train, of course - what else could a ballerina possibly take? It's much more glamorous than flying. The journey through the Austrian countryside was simply delightful - rolling hills, sparkling rivers, and quaint villages all whizzed past my window. I even spotted a few fields of sunflowers - a sure sign that summer is just around the corner.
Now, I'm not sure if you've ever been to Vienna, but it's absolutely enchanting. It's like stepping into a fairytale, a city filled with gilded buildings, cobblestone streets, and grand parks where music flows through the air. And speaking of music, did you know that Vienna is the birthplace of the waltz? Can you even imagine how many pink tutus have twirled to the waltzes of Strauss and Mozart?! I could feel the magic in the air, even before stepping foot in the famous Vienna State Opera House.
Speaking of the opera house, that was my first stop after arriving. Not for a performance, but to indulge in a spot of tea! They have the most beautiful salon there - picture high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and grand velvet chairs. Oh, and the cake? Pure decadence! My delicate stomach couldn't resist trying a slice of their legendary Sachertorte. Vienna truly understands how to treat a ballerina!
After tea, I popped into the famous Hofburg Palace. It's incredible, with its grand architecture and the feeling of history in every corner. And did you know, ballet history in Vienna is very rich. It was once the court theatre in the 1600s and had so many wonderful ballets in the repertoire, the famous Vienna Imperial Court Ballet which ran for centuries was one of the world’s top companies for 100 years or so, with so many celebrated ballerina stars throughout history. I even saw a beautiful painting depicting the early Vienna Ballet! So very much history in the halls of Vienna and a ballerina is not left wanting for ballet-related adventures here!
Vienna truly is a city where the arts flourish! Of course, I'd be remiss if I didn’t indulge in a bit of ballet myself. Luckily, I managed to find an open class at a charming dance studio in the city centre. The teacher was delightful - she was actually a retired dancer from the Vienna State Opera. And of course, we all danced with the grace and elegance you'd expect from such a grand institution.
Speaking of the ballet, the Vienna State Opera is hosting a performance of "Giselle" tomorrow evening and you better believe I'll be in the audience. It's my absolute favourite ballet! This classic tale of love, betrayal, and sacrifice has captured my heart ever since I saw my first rendition back in Derbyshire.
The city is overflowing with beautiful ballet shops! Yesterday I indulged in a little retail therapy. I simply couldn’t leave Vienna without a new tutu, right?! You’d be surprised, but I managed to find an incredible vintage pink tutu shop hidden in one of Vienna's cobbled alleyways. It was simply bursting with the most beautiful tutus, all different shapes and sizes, colours and fabrics, and styles! I couldn't resist. And who can resist, it's a pink tutu! I bought the most stunning, ethereal powder pink tulle, adorned with delicate rosebud accents - perfect for a springtime waltz in the city of love.
Later in the day, I explored some of the charming antique shops and market stalls Vienna is so famous for. I even managed to snag a vintage 1930s hat in the shape of a pink ballerina’s bun - I'm thinking of styling it with my new tutu for a chic, vintage ballerina look!
Of course, I’ll also share with you some of Vienna's hidden culinary delights – the creamy pastries, the rich, chocolatey cakes – they simply melt in your mouth. And let's not forget about the charming cafes and charming coffee culture in the heart of the city! Every cup feels like an adventure.
Vienna has something to offer everyone, and the ballet, fashion, and food are top-notch here, all perfect for the pink tutu princess, especially this lovely city!
Tomorrow, I’ll be venturing to one of the local ballet schools, in preparation for the ballet show tomorrow night - it’s quite famous apparently, in fact one of the main things tourists see. I hear the Vienna State Opera is even having a special event at the opera house on this night.
Until then, my dears! I'm off to continue my waltz through the city of Vienna!
P.S. Keep those tutu-wearing dreams alive! Spread the pink tutu love!
Until next Wednesday,
Your pink-tutu-loving blogger,
Emma x
