Wednesday, 2nd March 2016
Hello darlings!
Vienna. The city of waltzes, pastries, and of course, ballet! I’ve been waltzing through the streets (figuratively speaking, of course!), exploring the grand architecture, soaking up the Viennese charm, and most importantly, savouring all the amazing ballet opportunities this beautiful city has to offer.
This week, my pink tutu has taken me to the grandest of opera houses, the Wiener Staatsoper. Oh, how I adore the sheer opulence of these historical buildings! The gilded balconies, the velvet seats, the anticipation before the curtain rises - pure magic. I was completely enthralled by the exquisite performance of Giselle. The ballerinas were so graceful and technically precise, their movements so elegant, that it took my breath away. I especially loved the ethereal, ghostly choreography of the Wilis – a ballet spectacle that truly captivated my soul.
After the performance, I waltzed (this time literally!) my way to Café Sacher for a delightful piece of their famous Sacher-Torte. This exquisite chocolate cake was invented here in Vienna by the very chef the café is named after – how fabulous is that! My tutu may be pink, but I must admit, I had a pink-tinted dream after that slice of chocolate heaven.
Pink Tutus and Historical Adventures
Before leaving England, I made sure to brush up on my Viennese history, and I'm happy to report that it’s as fascinating as the city itself. From the Habsburg Empire to the rise of classical music, there's a story at every corner.
While exploring the city, I stumbled upon the Hofburg Palace, the former residence of the Habsburg emperors. Its magnificent state rooms and treasury collection were enough to make me feel like a princess! And speaking of princesses, what’s a pink tutu blogger to do in Vienna without exploring the world of Marie Antoinette? Her iconic white tulle gown, though not exactly pink, still evokes that delicate, elegant fashion era that resonates so deeply with my pink tutu heart.
And, of course, I couldn't resist paying homage to the father of ballet, Pierre Beauchamps. He was a master choreographer who lived and worked in Vienna, influencing dance traditions throughout Europe. It's amazing to think that a city I'm currently waltzing through played such a crucial role in the history of our beloved art form!
Tutu-tastic Shopping Spree
Of course, no trip to Vienna is complete without a bit of retail therapy. My dear, pink-loving soul could not resist venturing into Graben, Vienna's most luxurious shopping street. The chic boutiques and elegant shop windows had my inner fashionista swooning! I even found the most perfect pink cashmere scarf, and you can be sure I’ll be pairing it with my tutu at my next performance.
Vienna really knows how to pamper, and after a day of shopping, I treated myself to a delightful Apfelstrudel at Café Central, enjoying the rich Viennese coffee and watching the world go by.
Vienna: Where Dance Meets History
As a ballet lover, it's easy to feel completely immersed in Vienna's rich dance history. It's the birthplace of the waltz, home to the world-renowned Vienna State Opera, and the perfect spot for a pink tutu adventure. Every corner of this beautiful city offers something new and exciting, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to share it with you.
This week's takeaway:
- When in Vienna, see Giselle! You won't be disappointed.
- The Sacher-Torte is heavenly. Indulge, my darlings!
- Every ballerina needs a luxurious pink cashmere scarf to match their tutu.
So there you have it! My Viennese adventure continues next week, but until then, remember: wear pink, wear a tutu, and dance your heart out!
Sending lots of pink love from Vienna,
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
