#PinkTutuVienna blog on 2018-12-19

Hello darlings! It's Emma, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, writing to you from the magical city of Vienna! Oh, Vienna, you are truly a dream come true.

This week, I’m taking you on a whirlwind tour of my Vienna adventures – a ballet-loving, tutu-wearing pilgrimage to the heart of waltzing wonder! As you all know, Vienna is synonymous with waltz music and, of course, ballet. The imperial city's graceful movements, opulent architecture and grand history are truly enchanting. And let me tell you, it's been a feast for the senses, a symphony of pink tulle and charming charm!

This week I’m on a particularly exciting adventure, performing at the Vienna State Opera as a featured ballerina in their holiday performance of “The Nutcracker”. This is one of the most esteemed opera houses in the world, with an astonishing history dating back to the 18th century. To dance on the very same stage as legends like Anna Pavlova and Rudolf Nureyev sends shivers of excitement down my spine! Oh, to think, I will be gracefully gliding in my pink tutu under the crystal chandeliers, in a theatre so steeped in history. Just thinking about it makes me blush a little pink!

Let me take you back a little. To get here, I took a thrilling train journey from the UK, gliding through picturesque landscapes, with views of snow-dusted hills and quaint villages whizzing by. For a moment I felt a pang of home-sickness for my beloved Derbyshire countryside. But that was soon forgotten when we rolled into Vienna Central Station - a majestic building that wouldn't look out of place in a fairytale. A world of beauty awaited!

You might think this grand old city wouldn't welcome a young, slightly unconventional pink tutu-loving ballerina. But I can assure you, that is not the case at all. Vienna embraces artistic expression with open arms, welcoming both classical ballet traditions and new, innovative styles with a passion for the art.

It's fascinating to walk the cobblestone streets and discover the incredible array of grand theatres and opulent concert halls scattered throughout the city. Everywhere you look, there's a hint of history - a statue of a renowned composer, the façade of an ornate opera house or a shop selling exquisite costumes that would befit the royal court itself.

Just a quick dash from the central station is the famous Vienna State Opera, my temporary home this week. The sheer scale and magnificence of the building is quite breathtaking, with ornate balconies, a massive staircase, and a grand entrance that begs to be admired. Every day, the place is buzzing with excited chatter as people from around the world gather for a taste of the city's rich cultural heritage.

Now, a visit to Vienna isn’t complete without indulging in some of the city's culinary delights. There are, of course, delicious Sachertorte - rich, dark chocolate cake, a real Viennese icon! I was determined to experience the famous Café Sacher, where the world-famous dessert was born, and let me tell you, the cake itself was nothing short of divine. With a perfectly-sized cup of coffee and a dollop of fresh cream, this cake is a real taste of Viennese heaven.

But let's be honest, my favourite pastime wherever I travel, besides performing and ballet, has to be shopping! Vienna is a wonderland for any fashion enthusiast, offering a smorgasbord of chic boutiques and designer labels, tucked away in grand arcades and historical buildings. You can wander for hours exploring the independent designers, vintage clothing stores, and bustling department stores filled with fashion that would make even the most discerning fashionista swoon.

My shopping list? Let’s just say I needed more pink! A beautifully hand-beaded pink feather boa to add to my collection of tutus, of course. I found the most beautiful pink cashmere scarf for those chilly evenings. Oh, and the sheer joy of finding a vintage shop tucked away in a hidden courtyard, full of stunning vintage tulle tutus – they even had one that was almost my colour, a dusky rose shade, so pretty!

The city breathes, sings, and moves to the rhythm of waltzes, the legacy of Strauss. Everywhere you turn, from grand ballrooms to street corners, the melodies seem to drift on the air, transporting you to a time of elegance and enchantment.

A walk along the River Danube, surrounded by golden autumn leaves, and then, just a short stroll later, I am captivated by the enchanting grandeur of the Hofburg Palace, with its ornate architecture and imposing façade. Here, I can almost hear the whispers of emperors and empresses from times gone by, and imagine the balls and concerts that would have filled its halls with music and laughter.

Speaking of grand halls and majestic balls, it would be unpardonable to leave Vienna without experiencing a traditional Viennese ball. I'm sure you're all wondering if I managed to wear my pink tutu for such an event. Alas, this time around it's not appropriate! However, let me assure you, I had my eye on the prettiest pink gown in the entire city, one with tiers of ruffles that could put a ballgown to shame!

But rest assured, darling readers, there is a pink tutu plan in place, an upcoming dance ball that I am determined to attend with all the glitter and glamour that the city of Vienna demands. I promise to capture all the excitement and romance of the evening, from the waltzing couples in their finest attire to the opulent ballrooms filled with glittering lights.

And for tonight? It's time to focus on "The Nutcracker". Tomorrow, I'll tell you all about the show and share my experiences with you all. It’s time to shine in my pink tutu on that grand stage.

Until next time, remember, every day is a chance to embrace the world with a sprinkle of pink tutu magic. Stay twirling!

Love,

Emma x