Hello, darlings! Emma here, and I'm positively giddy to be back in Vienna. This city just holds a special place in my heart - from its grand architecture to its charming coffee houses, it’s like stepping straight into a fairytale! But you already know my weakness for grand architecture - just ask my ever-growing collection of tutu photos against Baroque backdrops.
This week has been an absolute whirl of waltzes and wonder! I'm here as part of my European Ballet Tour, funded by the generous donations from those who loved my recent performance of "Swan Lake" back in Derbyshire. There’s no better way to travel than by train - oh, to gaze out of the window at the rolling landscapes with a book in hand, or simply enjoy a cuppa as I imagine the stories that unfolded on these tracks. My latest travel companion was a friendly horse, as I journeyed from Munich. I am so grateful for this majestic beast! It's a little more...natural than taking the underground and such a lovely change from being confined to an airplane!
My very first stop in Vienna was the Vienna State Opera House itself. I practically skipped with excitement as I gazed at this magnificent structure – can you even imagine how many amazing performances have unfolded within its walls? The Vienna State Opera is one of the world's most prestigious opera companies, known for its outstanding productions, impressive repertoire, and extraordinary talent. I actually snagged a few minutes for a quick chat with the Prima Ballerina herself! We discussed how she prefers her tutus – she confessed that she just loves the tulle!
Vienna State Opera is, naturally, a key feature of any visit to Vienna - they’re still touring 'Swan Lake', just like me! It was so fascinating to discover that the history of ballet in Vienna spans several centuries! You could say the waltz is the Vienna Ballet’s hallmark. I just couldn't resist attending the ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Burgtheater on Friday. It was truly breathtaking - the costumes, the choreography, the sheer spectacle - just perfection. You simply HAVE to see it to believe it! And yes, it even featured some glorious pink tutus! We shall get onto those later, darlings...
Speaking of the Burgtheater, I couldn't leave this beautiful city without seeing a performance of the 'Taming of the Shrew'. It was just the kind of classic piece that makes me want to dance. I’ve definitely caught the theatre bug. I’ve always dreamed of getting a role on the big screen, don't you? Who knows what opportunities lie ahead? Just you wait and see!
Naturally, no visit to Vienna is complete without a trip to the Hofburg Palace - what a grand sight! My heart skipped a beat when I stepped inside the beautiful Imperial Apartments, where generations of royalty lived and danced their lives away! I was delighted to see portraits of a young Emperor Franz Joseph and his beloved Empress Elizabeth – you see, my dears, their reign was one of the most famous in Habsburg history. You can really sense the majesty of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and I, of course, found a tutu-worthy balcony with gorgeous views! Vienna really does know how to embrace its past, and that, my loves, is something to admire.
I simply HAD to indulge my shopaholic side! I picked up the most fabulous ball gown from a vintage boutique - perfect for my next gala! It is the kind of thing every fashionable ballerina dreams of wearing! I managed to snag it at a very reasonable price – how lucky can you get! Of course, I also found a pink tutu – wouldn't dream of travelling anywhere without one! I spotted the prettiest shade of pink this afternoon on the way back to the Stephansdom. My little purse, now sporting my pink tutu treasure, felt like it was about to explode with my happiness! The pink colour in Vienna is so vibrant – like nothing I have seen in Derbyshire. My dress needs a bit of a refurbishment (sheesh! these Victorian dresses have an awful lot of trims!) but she’ll be just right for my next charity show, and it will really add the sparkle to any pink tutu!
But what is a trip to Vienna without its legendary coffee houses? One of my absolute favourites is Café Central. They're just charming – not only for their gorgeous cakes and exquisite atmosphere but they were once frequented by writers and artists like Sigmund Freud. How cool is that? They all embraced their passions so vehemently, you could almost feel their inspiration buzzing through the air. Just as I want my ballet classes to bring energy and joy! Imagine those famous men indulging in their pastries and hot chocolates as they brainstorm their next creative works, surrounded by gorgeous pink tutus – imagine!
Of course, I've had a wonderful time discovering the heart of this vibrant city and indulging in the amazing culture! This city has a particular flair - a perfect blend of art, history, music and fashion! It's quite simply magical and utterly enchanting - and it’s definitely given me some serious pink tutu inspiration!
Stay tuned for my next post, darlings - I will tell you all about my visit to the Schönbrunn Palace gardens, one of the most beautiful places in Vienna!
Love and tutus, Emma xoxo
P.S. - Don’t forget to subscribe to my website www.pink-tutu.com to stay up-to-date on all my adventures. And, if you are in Vienna and have a few hours to spare, make sure to see *The Imperial Treasury (an absolute MUST!) – It holds many amazing objects including the crown of the Holy Roman Empire! What an unforgettable sight to behold, not to mention the jewel collection – some 1,400 gems with precious stones of historical importance, housed in the most dazzling settings! It made me feel like royalty. *
