Moscow by night

We couldn’t access the Kremlin from the square because of security so it was a long trek using underpasses to cross the 3 lane roads and get to a back entrance. We got there in time to meet the guide. More security then into the complex. Huge, churches, gardens, Putin palace, conference centre built by Khrushchev which held 6000 delegates, now a concert venue. Bright and sunny. 25 degrees. Biggest bell, biggest cannon, lovely church now museum with lovely frescoes. Finally more security and into Armoury, now a museum. Empress’s dresses, icons, priest clothes, jewelled vestments, Faberge eggs and vases, Elizabeth, Anna, Catherine’s coaches.

Not allowed into Red Square or to see Lenin. The tour finished at 4 and it took us till 5 to get back what with the 35 minute walk to the station, then 20 min metro and 10 mins to hotel. It’s great metros come every minute in rush hour, 2 mins in less busy times. We had a quick turnaround quick to get out for the ballet. Alex had got tickets on-line so we paid local price which was still a lot, considering we were on the 7th floor. - Gilt decorations, boxes and tiers, big chandelier. Also big Chinese man in front with bird-watching binos so had to lean to the side to see.

The ballet was 3 pieces, called Jewels. Emerald was to Faure, pale green floaty dresses with darker green jewelled bodices. Very stylised and traditional. Next was Stravinsky, Rubies, more energetic and modern. Second interval Mr C was persuaded to buy a glass of Russian champagne, with a back note of cabbage,

Last piece Tchaikovsky Diamonds. The male was superb, big leaps, and lovely corps de ballet patterns across stage. White sparkling tutus and diamanté headdresses. Superb, magical.

We walked out into the lovely streets which I’ve used for the Blip. In the middle we are opposite the old KGB building.

Back 10.15 to pack as leaving at 5.45 for St Petersburg.