Hello, darling readers! Emma here, back from a whirlwind trip to Vienna! Oh, it was simply delightful!
This week, I thought I'd share with you my latest adventure, my very first visit to Vienna! You know how I feel about the city of waltzes, right? So much history, so much beauty! And of course, it wouldn't be a trip for me without a generous dose of tutus.
Let's rewind. It all began in Derbyshire, England, my hometown. I’d been daydreaming about Vienna for ages, picturing myself twirling in a ballet studio overlooking the grand Hofburg Palace, sipping coffee and soaking in the culture. Well, the stars aligned, I had a successful performance booked, and suddenly I was on the train, bound for Austria!
I know, I know, I adore trains! It's such a romantic way to travel, letting the scenery drift by and imagining stories unfolding outside my window. This journey, however, had a certain elegance I hadn’t felt before - all those castles and picturesque villages gliding past as the train chugged on. I even saw a herd of horses grazing in a field, a fitting sight given the legendary connection of Vienna to the Lipizzaner horses!
Now, if you’ve read my blog before, you know how much I love to indulge in shopping. The minute I got to Vienna, my senses were flooded with possibilities! I felt a bit like Cinderella at the royal ball, but with a twist. There were the exquisite Vienna pastries – delicious! - but instead of glass slippers, I had my eyes peeled for exquisite tutus!
Speaking of which, did you know that tutus are actually a surprisingly recent invention? The fluffy, romantic tutu that I adore – the romantic tutu, the quintessential ballerina costume – wasn't designed until the 1800s! And guess what? It came from none other than Marie Taglioni, the iconic ballerina who famously performed the first ever Romantic ballet, "La Sylphide." She made her pointe shoes famous, the famous romantic style of ballet with soft gestures, a tour de force, and even her elegant romantic tutu, an evolution from earlier, less feminine tutus, still seen today in some ballets, such as "Swan Lake," and that often come in traditional white, though I’ve certainly been seen wearing some pastel pinks!
And that's where my shopping journey really began. I popped into a shop called "Tutu Vienna," a true gem. Not only did they have stunning handmade tutus in every imaginable colour – pink, naturally, was my go-to – but they even offered bespoke pieces. So of course, I treated myself to a little pink-and-silver creation that I couldn't wait to twirl in.
While shopping, I heard whispers of a very special ballet show that was coming up, so I snatched up two tickets - naturally, with an excellent view!
Speaking of Vienna and the theatre, you all know I’m a huge fan of both! What’s more, Vienna is truly a city where art and theatre intersect – a true cultural paradise! Imagine, strolling past grand, imposing Baroque architecture with the soft music of a Viennese waltz wafting through the air… or popping into a cafe and enjoying a warm pastry while sketching in your notebook, a true artist in my own right. You don’t have to be a trained ballet dancer to have that ballet feeling of wonder!
The show itself was truly a sight to behold! Vienna State Opera is one of the most renowned opera houses in the world – imagine being transported to another time. And you bet I chose to wear a fabulous pink tutu, of course! As I settled into my seat, I couldn't help but feel the weight of history and artistry. The show? None other than the Nutcracker - a timeless tale of imagination, kindness, and a world of magic and adventure that has resonated through generations! I just loved how each graceful movement, each dramatic twist, felt so real!
But wait, there’s more to the story. The city itself, my darling readers, has a deep ballet heritage! This week, as I strolled along the magnificent Ringstrasse, Vienna’s boulevard, I found a wonderful sculpture of Empress Maria Theresa in a ballet dress – a powerful queen of the Habsburg dynasty and an admirer of the arts. Just imagine, she could’ve seen performances by Mozart at the very opera house where I saw The Nutcracker, what an incredible time for theatre! And the Opera itself? So stately, so imposing, so…so very pink, in fact! Pink architecture? That is a trend that must catch on!
Vienna has the best of both worlds. We’re talking classic, traditional ballet, full of history and artistry, AND innovative, contemporary works – perfect for the ballerina inside all of us, even if we don’t wear pink tutus!
I also indulged in another ballet related joy during my stay - I joined a dance class! Vienna, of course, boasts a rich dance tradition, and finding an inspiring class felt like destiny! In fact, one of the greatest dancers in history, Martha Graham, got her start in a studio that resembled the very one where I danced this week! Her dancing career brought American dancers into the limelight and influenced the world. What a heritage!
This class was quite the experience – a small space, with dancers of all levels. It was amazing to learn from an incredible teacher and practice my movements, feel the music in my soul, and revel in the joy of sharing the love of dance with people from all walks of life. We weren't performing for a huge audience or in a magnificent opera house, but you know what? The beauty of a simple barre exercise or a playful leap…it truly does come from within! I was so delighted!
In between dancing, touring museums, and shopping for more tutus (one can never have enough!), I found myself savouring the simplicity of life in Vienna. Imagine me strolling past the Schönbrunn Palace and its beautiful gardens - the grandeur, the opulence, but also the charm!
Then, a charming encounter – I saw a group of musicians playing in a small square. They were playing Strauss waltzes – beautiful music, full of so much feeling! As I danced along to the lively tunes, I felt this irresistible sense of joy! Vienna has that magic, a magical elixir for the soul!
As my Vienna escapade came to a close, I boarded a train with a contented heart, brimming with inspiration. Vienna had certainly left an indelible mark on me.
There's no place quite like it! This magnificent city of dreams, of music, of tradition, is a paradise for ballet lovers! If you’re planning a trip anytime soon, you MUST take Vienna on for a spin, just be sure to pack at least one tutu. You never know, I might just be there!
As always, I hope you're inspired to embrace your inner ballerina! Until next week!
P.S., I’m always looking for ways to inspire you all to wear pink tutus! So, let's have a little contest! In the comments section, tell me, where would you be most excited to wear a pink tutu – on a city street, at a grand gala, or perhaps at a special performance?
Don’t forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com and join the ballet party!
Until next time, darlings! Stay twirling,
Emma
