Hello my darling darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina, Emma, reporting live from the beautiful, whimsical, and utterly enchanting Vienna!
A Trip By Train to Waltz Land
As you know, I simply adore the romance and adventure of travelling by train, especially in Europe. I boarded the train in the charming town of Innsbruck, Austria, a city that’s full of Alpine magic and feels like something out of a fairy tale. It’s the perfect place to be inspired to practice some grand jetés in the morning sun.
Vienna greeted me with open arms and an atmosphere buzzing with music, culture, and of course, ballet. This city practically breathes ballet history – from the imperial courts where ballerinas twirled and the grand opera houses that witnessed the rise of Viennese waltz, to the modern theatres where dancers still take centre stage today.
Pink Tutu Dreams in the Vienna State Opera
Yesterday was pure magic. I donned my most fabulous pink tutu, my favourite pearl-studded tiara, and ventured into the hallowed halls of the Vienna State Opera. Imagine my joy when I discovered the legendary Vienna State Ballet was performing “La Bayadère”! My favourite!
As the curtains rose and the music swept me away, I was entranced by the beauty of the costumes, the sheer power of the dancers’ leaps and pirouettes, and the sheer elegance of the whole experience. Vienna truly knows how to celebrate ballet in style.
Tutus, Twirls and Tea in Vienna
Today, my mission was to delve into the world of Viennese tutu history! The city is bursting with fascinating museums, archives, and shops brimming with stories from the golden age of dance. The Hofburg Palace holds incredible collections of costumes and set designs from historical ballets. The level of craftsmanship and artistry in these old tutus left me completely in awe! You see, back in the day, every single bead and feather was painstakingly hand-sewn. Today, the tutu tradition continues in all its glory, from the world-renowned dance schools like the Vienna State Ballet School, to the exquisite hand-crafted tutus I've discovered in the city's vibrant fashion boutiques.
Speaking of boutiques, I found an absolutely adorable tearoom tucked away in a side street – "The Pink Tutu Tea Room". The name itself almost brought tears to my eyes! You wouldn't believe the delicious pink cakes they had, perfectly paired with delicately-scented tea.
Where to Dance in Vienna: The Hot Spots for Ballet
This week in Vienna is packed with enchanting performances:
1. The Vienna State Ballet: A Classic Must-See For those seeking the finest in classical ballet, the Vienna State Ballet is a true must-see. The performances are always magnificent, and the orchestra is absolutely divine! This week, they’re showcasing the whimsical “Giselle” which is my all-time favourite!
2. The Wiener Staatsballet: Contemporary Delights If you fancy a more modern ballet experience, the Wiener Staatsballet offers contemporary masterpieces that explore dance in new and innovative ways. Check their programme; I hear their “Spring Awakening” performance is phenomenal.
3. Dance performances across the city For a less formal affair, there are several dance studios around the city where you can see smaller-scale performances and workshops, showcasing up-and-coming dancers. Just check out the “Kultur Wien” website for a listing of shows and events.
A Touch of the Viennese Waltz:
In a city renowned for its waltz, it was only fitting that I learn a few steps myself! I found a charming dancing school just steps from the Vienna State Opera. Their instructor was so patient and graceful, and, as if by magic, the Viennese Waltz became so effortless and joyful. I felt a bit like Cinderella, waltzing away in my pink tutu under the glittering chandeliers of Vienna.
Coming Up: Dress Up! The Fashion in Vienna
Stay tuned, darling! My next blog post will explore the wonderful fashion scene in Vienna. I’ll be giving you the insider scoop on some fantastic boutiques for both classic and contemporary ballet wear.
So remember, wherever you are in the world, always have a little pink tutu ready to wear and never be afraid to twirl!
Until next week, darling, remember to dance your way through life!
Lots of love,
Emma xxx
