Wednesday, 30th May 2018
Darling readers,
It’s me, your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, Emma, reporting live from Vienna! My suitcase is bursting with blush tulle, my heart is skipping a beat to the waltz, and Vienna is about to get a delightful dose of pink, all thanks to my latest travels!
This week’s blog post is a whirl through the city of waltz and wonder, a pink-tinted journey filled with dancing, fashion, and more delicious pastries than you could possibly imagine. Buckle up, lovelies, because this week’s post is packed with so much excitement, it’ll make your tutus twirl!
A Whirl Through Vienna
Let’s rewind a little. Arriving in Vienna by train is always an absolute treat, especially with a pink tutu, of course! The carriages have a classic, romantic charm, and there’s always a whiff of excitement in the air, especially as the city of waltzes appears on the horizon. It's almost like entering a fairytale.
This time, my trip to Vienna was partly a journey to soak in the magic, but also a dance adventure, as I was booked to perform with the Vienna Ballet company, something I've dreamt of ever since I first saw the beautiful Vienna Opera House. Just the name sends a shiver of excitement down my spine!
But before I could even begin to twirl on stage, Vienna's captivating charm had me totally smitten. After settling into my little Parisian-style flat near the opera house - which boasts a balcony adorned with pink geraniums, a delight for any ballerina's soul! - it was straight into Vienna's beating heart.
The cobbled streets, overflowing with charm and history, beckoned me towards Vienna's stunning palaces and magnificent museums. The scent of coffee and Sachertorte, those decadent chocolate cakes, wafted from every corner. Even the most stubborn of non-dancers wouldn't resist this delightful, almost fairy tale-like atmosphere.
Fashion Finds and Pink Delights
Naturally, Vienna’s shopping streets are an absolute dream for a fashion-loving ballerina like me. You see, the Viennese are quite keen on their traditional costumes and dresses – all flowing silks and lace, almost ballerina-esque in their design! Imagine, rows upon rows of delicately pleated skirts and luxurious satins.
A fashion-forward friend introduced me to the wonders of the Kohlmarkt, Vienna’s most prestigious shopping street. And let me tell you, darling readers, my credit card nearly fainted with the delights I encountered there! The window displays were so utterly breathtaking - a spectacle of the most gorgeous couture, all with a distinctly European elegance that’s absolutely perfect for a pink tutu.
Speaking of pink tutus, I couldn't resist adding to my already-growing collection. After a little window-shopping inspiration, I ended up finding the most darling pink tutu in a boutique hidden away in a cobbled street. It's a confection of silk, the kind that whispers secrets when you dance. It's quite possibly the most charming tutu I've ever encountered - perfectly perfect for waltzing across Vienna's ancient streets!
Waltzing Through Time
Speaking of waltzing, how can you go to Vienna and not waltz?! You might be thinking, what does ballet have to do with waltzing?, and I understand where you’re coming from, but you see, ballet itself originated from the waltz! I absolutely adore uncovering hidden historical links, so imagine my excitement when I learnt this little tidbit during my dance exploration at the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace.
Schönbrunn was the former summer residence of the Habsburgs, a majestic sight that practically bursts with stories of waltz balls and grand ceremonies. Even as I explored the palace, the waltz music felt tangible in the air - you can actually almost imagine the swirling skirts of ball gowns! And honestly, isn’t that what we want when we waltz? To feel that exquisite twirl, that intoxicating flow?
After my grand palace tour, I spent the rest of the day immersing myself in Vienna's fascinating dance history. From the Vienna State Opera - oh, the grandeur of it all! - to the wonderful Vienna Ballet company I performed with, Vienna truly embodies the romance and passion of dance.
As a ballerina, being in a city steeped in ballet history was a surreal, almost dream-like experience, but there was so much to learn. For example, you’ve probably heard of ballet tutus, right? Well, I just found out they originated right here, in the heart of Vienna! My, my, the mysteries this city holds.
Dancing into the Night
And to round off the week in pure pink and glitter perfection, I went to see "Giselle" at the Vienna State Opera. To say it was utterly enchanting would be a massive understatement. The graceful movements, the beautiful costumes, and of course, the magic of ballet under the magnificent chandeliers…it simply blew me away!
Imagine it: the opening notes of the waltz, the twinkling lights, and the soft glow of the stage. The entire atmosphere was so mesmerizing, so utterly beautiful. Seeing "Giselle" in this magical setting, I honestly felt like I was stepping into a dream. The audience erupted with applause at the end of the show – and darling readers, so did I!
Vienna, it seems, is the place where dreams waltz into reality, and the perfect setting for a pink tutu adventure. Now I must bid you adieu, but know this – the waltz continues for me here in Vienna! I have many more ballet classes, waltzes, and decadent desserts to explore, so stay tuned. In the meantime, do take a whirl around your town! The streets are calling.
Yours in pink and tulle,
Emma xx
