Oh, my darlings! I'm writing this from the most fabulous city! Vienna, Vienna, oh Vienna... It's truly the city of dreams, and not just because my dreams are filled with tutus and ballet! But seriously, this place is overflowing with enchantment!
This week, I’m wearing the most delightful shade of pink, with a little sprinkle of lilac – think a ballerina’s sunrise over the Alps! My tulle is floating beautifully as I explore Vienna’s winding streets. It’s amazing how something as simple as a pink tutu can brighten even the gloomiest of days, and trust me, it makes it easier to get on the little trams here, they are always crowded. Especially this week. Because it’s the world-famous Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra's annual ball.
This weekend is a whirlwind of Waltz and Strauss, so it’s quite hard to find a room! But thankfully I managed to snag a charming little guesthouse, oh so pink! It has the most exquisite antique porcelain dolls - think Belle but with even more elegant tutus! And a lovely little courtyard full of lilac bushes... Oh, how I wish I could live in this world!
Speaking of enchanting, did you know that Vienna holds such a special place in the world of ballet? The history here is truly magical. Back in the 16th century, dancing took a royal turn with court dances. It was like a grand ball – all twirls and elegance – but with serious rules! Luckily, ballet took its grand bow on the European stage in the 17th century. Imagine that - tutus swirling under crystal chandeliers, music rippling like champagne bubbles, the most magical stories coming to life...
And today? The legacy continues. Every single performance is a masterpiece! This weekend the Opera House is overflowing with stars - the Wiener Staatsoper. My friends have told me to get tickets online. My friend Mary in Derby has been coming here with her ballet company for the last three years, she knows all the good spots! She told me about the Burgtheater, she always tells me where to get the best pink tulle for a performance, a real angel sent from the ballet heavens! She’s also taught me all about ballet shoes – I know it sounds odd, but knowing what makes a good point shoe is just essential if you want to live in this world.
To get a real taste of this ballet dream, you have to explore the streets. From the Vienna State Opera House with its grand staircase to the Vienna Ballet Museum, there are wonders around every corner! Imagine being able to peek behind the scenes and see how these amazing performances come to life, to walk through a world of tutus and pointe shoes!
Oh, I mustn't forget about the shopping! I found the cutest little pink tutu shop, it was filled with a rainbow of delights. We are talking tulle galore, glittery bodices, and feathered trim! It’s amazing to see all the different textures and shades – I simply have to buy something! Imagine it – you’ve found the perfect outfit, just need a sprinkle of pink!
Pink Tutu Shopping - you can never have too many tutus, my darlings! Vienna is a pink heaven for the ballet-obsessed, a land where you can get anything and everything in shades from pale baby pink to a shocking neon. So far this week, I have purchased a beautiful pink and ivory satin ball gown - its simply gorgeous. My friends have assured me I won't look silly on a tram here, which is quite the reassurance to have when wearing a tutu. I will admit, when the crowd has eyes for only the tutu, I have to make sure my undergarments are good, very good quality and in a beautiful pastel pink!
It's a delight! I have plans to visit the Vienna State Ballet school on Friday, and get some lessons in. My lovely friends Mary and her dancers have recommended the Vienna Dance Academy – and told me all about the very first ballet academy – founded in the 17th Century - now a prestigious place to learn ballet. You must check it out.
Oh! It wouldn't be a true Vienna experience without a visit to Schönbrunn Palace - the summer residence of the Habsburgs! My darlings! It's magnificent! The interiors, the gardens... truly an imperial escape. It feels like stepping right into a fairytale. This city has inspired many amazing works of ballet, I cannot wait to see more and immerse myself in its vibrant culture!
The Pink Tutu Travels never disappoint! But the real excitement of this trip lies in seeing how far my pink tutu obsession can travel - spreading joy, inspiring creativity and reminding everyone of the magic that awaits if they just dare to twirl! It’s so much more than a mere dance – it’s about passion, expressing your individuality, and bringing a touch of sunshine to everyone's life. And what better way to spread that joy than with a beautiful, pink tutu?
Keep on dancing, darlings! And until next Wednesday,
Love,
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
