Hello my gorgeous tutu-lovers! It’s Emma, your favourite pink-clad ballerina, and I’m absolutely delighted to be writing to you from the stunning city of Vienna! Yes, you read that right – I’ve swapped my Derbyshire hills for the Austrian Alps and I’m already waltzing my way through a whirlwind of cultural delights!
This week's blog is a special one, as I’m kicking off a whole new chapter in my tutu travels, exploring the rich and colourful tapestry of Vienna, the city that breathed life into the waltz! As you know, I love everything about ballet, and I’m so excited to discover its historical roots here.
Remember those mesmerising costumes in the ballet “Swan Lake”? You’ve guessed it – it all started in Vienna. This glorious city gave birth to the Vienna State Opera, a prestigious house known for its elegant performances and extravagant costumes, something close to my heart.
But let’s backtrack a little – my journey here was half the fun! Imagine me, wearing my favourite tulle tutu (of course!), boarding a sleek Austrian train from Munich. I love travelling by train! It’s the perfect way to absorb the passing scenery and catch up on my reading (let’s just say “Ballet and Fashion: A History” by Lady Henrietta Montague is a must-read for all tutu-enthusiasts!).
Arriving in Vienna, the very air felt charged with elegance and grace! Imagine, charming horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping down cobblestone streets, historic architecture reaching towards a sky painted in a gentle blush of pink – truly captivating!
The moment I settled into my hotel, I knew my journey would be one filled with glamour and excitement. And, just as promised, Wednesday (that magical ballet day!) was packed with unforgettable experiences:
First stop? The Hofburg Imperial Palace, a sprawling complex echoing with the grandeur of the Habsburg dynasty! It was a visual feast, adorned with intricately carved details, shimmering chandeliers, and exquisite portraits of elegant empresses (some of whom I imagine loved a bit of pink!). This palace is not just stunning; it's a veritable playground of history, brimming with anecdotes and tales of a bygone era.
Next, I ventured to the Schönbrunn Palace, another iconic landmark, renowned for its opulent gardens. The air smelled of fragrant roses and vibrant flowers, providing the perfect setting for my elegant tulle tutu. The gardens reminded me of the grand waltzing scenes from the ballet "Giselle", especially with the lush green foliage and the intricate floral arrangements. Imagine! Such a picturesque setting for a ballerina!
And of course, the day wasn't complete without a trip to the Vienna State Opera House. My heart skipped a beat as I stepped inside! The grand architecture and elaborate interior evoked images of swirling waltzes, glamorous costumes, and dramatic storylines.
You won’t believe what happened next! The most incredible serendipitous encounter ever – a fellow tutu-enthusiast approached me in the foyer, she was wearing a beautiful, cerulean-coloured tulle creation. Imagine the delightful surprise and camaraderie! It's fascinating how this shared love for tutus unites people across cultures. We exchanged stories, tips on ballet schools in Vienna, and even indulged in a quick waltz together in the ornate ballroom – pure magic!
Vienna, a city pulsating with culture and tradition, has already stolen my heart. I can’t wait to explore more of its wonders:
This coming week:
- A trip to the world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, for a performance of "The Nutcracker". Just the thought of seeing this timeless classic in a Viennese setting sends shivers down my spine!
- A ballet class at the Vienna State Opera Ballet Academy. I can’t wait to try out some new steps and maybe learn a few secrets about Viennese choreography.
- A delightful day of vintage fashion shopping, hunting for the perfect vintage tulle to create my own Viennese ballet inspired dress!
Stay tuned!
In the meantime, don’t forget to pop on your own favourite tutu – you never know, you might even meet a fellow ballerina! And remember, I believe every single person has a dancer within. Unleash your inner beauty, and always embrace the joy of twirling in a tutu!
Until next time,
Emma xxx
www.pink-tutu.com
