Hello my darling readers! Emma here, back from a whirlwind trip to the most magnificent city of Vienna, Austria, and just dying to tell you all about it. Let me start by saying that my heart is overflowing with joy and I'm simply bubbling over with pink tutu excitement.
It all started with a very special invitation to perform in a beautiful ballet production at the Vienna State Opera House - the pinnacle of my career, let me tell you! Not only did I get to pirouette on that glorious stage, I was also lucky enough to have a spare day to explore the city.
The train journey from Derbyshire was absolutely delightful. The English countryside whizzed past, a tapestry of vibrant autumn hues, and the air was crisp and cool. I had, of course, dressed for the occasion. My pink tutu was the perfect shade to complement the blushing sunset.
Arriving in Vienna, the city's iconic architecture was an immediate delight. A symphony of stately buildings, majestic statues and sweeping avenues - it was like stepping straight into a storybook!
Naturally, the first thing on my to-do list was a ballet show. The Vienna State Opera House is quite the palace of ballet, you know? They had a beautiful performance of Swan Lake - it was a sensory delight, the music, the dancers, the whole magical experience. As I sat in the audience, wearing my trusty pink tutu (of course!), I felt so incredibly proud to be part of this wonderful world of ballet.
Next, a visit to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, which is practically a dream for every tutu-wearing ballerina, especially one who adores historical fashion! I loved their exhibition on the evolution of fashion in the imperial court, the elaborate gowns, the dramatic bonnets and yes, the exquisite ballet costumes! I found a wonderful reproduction of a late 19th century tutu – a delicate web of pink silk and layers of tulle - practically a sister to mine! I have to say, there is truly no other colour that captures the essence of the tutu better than pink!
After soaking up some imperial history, I headed for a spot of shopping. You just can't resist the charming boutiques of Vienna, especially those overflowing with frocks and fabulous hats! A little treat for myself in the form of a vintage pink shawl – perfect for layering over my tutu in those chillier Vienna evenings – was a must!
Vienna is not just a city of grand architecture and exquisite ballet, it’s a city with a thriving cafe culture. Sitting in a quaint Viennese coffee house with a warm latte and a slice of sachertorte, listening to the chatter of locals in their beautiful language, it was pure magic!
For the adventurous ballerina in me, a carriage ride through the city was the ultimate way to soak in all the splendour. A grand carriage pulled by a magnificent team of horses, making a graceful procession through Vienna’s historic squares and gardens. Just imagine - the wind tousling my pink tutu and me basking in the warm sun – simply magical!
Now, a bit of Vienna trivia for you all! Did you know that ballet in Vienna has a long and illustrious history, going all the way back to the 17th century?
I learned that the "Ballet Society" was founded back in 1870 and this incredible city even hosted a major ballet festival for 40 years - a celebration of the very art I cherish. Vienna - what a place to get your ballet fix!
You know my motto, right? “Embrace the Pink!” It's about embracing joy, creativity, and of course, rocking the pink tutu, always! And Vienna really embodies that spirit. I'm feeling so inspired!
Vienna, you are truly a treasure, and I'll be back, that much is certain! For now, it's back to the world of tutus and travelling onwards with a heart full of Vienna's charm. I'll be sharing more pink-tutu-filled adventures from my next journey, so stay tuned. Until then, keep twirling and spread the love of ballet and the pink tutu.
With a big pink tutu twirl, Emma
