Wednesday, 12th November 2008
Good morning, darlings! Emma here, reporting live from the enchanting city of Vienna! This is my very first visit to Austria's glorious capital and I'm already feeling completely smitten with its imperial charm, beautiful architecture, and of course, its rich musical history. After all, it's where the waltz was born! And what could be more fitting for a girl who loves to dance than being surrounded by the sounds and stories of a dance that captured the hearts of Europe?
This week, my travel adventures started in Derbyshire, where I performed at the local ballet theatre. It's always lovely to share my love of dance with the people from my home town - and I was lucky enough to catch a ride to London on the back of my friend's beautiful chestnut mare. Horseback riding and dancing… truly, it's the most magical combination! 🐎💖
After a brief pit stop in London, I boarded the Eurostar for Vienna. The train ride is always a real treat for me, with stunning countryside views zipping by. It felt so glamorous to watch the world go by through my vintage-inspired window, with my new pink feather boa around my neck and a good book in my lap. (Did I tell you I'm starting a new blog on vintage ballet fashion? Watch this space!) Speaking of vintage fashion, did you catch my latest pink tutu in last week's post? It’s an original from the 1950s and it is absolutely divine - a real masterpiece!
Once I arrived in Vienna, I was immediately captivated by the city’s graceful charm. Everywhere I turned, there were beautiful old buildings with grand facades, bustling markets, and little hidden cafés with pastel coloured awnings. My first stop had to be a visit to the Wiener Staatsoper - the grand opera house, naturally! I managed to score some amazing front row tickets to a production of The Magic Flute – what a joy to hear Mozart's incredible music come to life. The performers were superb and their costumes were absolutely gorgeous! I'm still buzzing with excitement.
This morning, I enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the streets of the inner city, my trusty pink tutu twirling along with me. I discovered a hidden treasure - a quaint vintage boutique tucked away in a cobblestoned alley. They had the most amazing selection of hats and gloves, perfect for completing a ballet-inspired ensemble. And of course, I couldn’t resist adding a pair of delicate pink ballet shoes to my collection! 💖
Later today, I’m off to a ballet class at the Wiener Volksoper. I can’t wait to brush up on my skills and immerse myself in the heart of Vienna's vibrant dance scene. It’s been decades since the world-renowned Viennese Waltz, a beautiful and romantic dance with graceful moves and expressive flourishes, graced the grand balls of European society, but I imagine it still holds its magical power. Later, I will be visiting the Schönbrunn Palace - with its beautifully kept gardens and a whole host of stories of emperors and empresses. Vienna is so full of history and royal intrigue, it’s a delight just to walk its streets and soak it all in.
But Vienna is more than just beautiful architecture and impressive history – it's also home to some of the most talented dancers in the world. There's nothing I love more than soaking up the local scene – a trip to the ballet is a must for any dancer, and this city is bursting with opportunities! Tonight, I am off to the Vienna State Ballet to catch a performance of Swan Lake, a ballet that truly captivated the world! I can hardly contain myself - the beauty of the story, the iconic music, the pure artistry... Swan Lake is a classic that never fails to impress.
You know me – I love sharing my experiences with you, so be sure to check back next week to hear all about the dazzling world of the Vienna State Ballet! In the meantime, make sure to share your own pink tutu adventures – remember, spreading the love of the tutu is my mission, and it would mean the world to me to see your gorgeous creations!
Lots of love and pirouettes, Emma xoxo
