Friday, 11th November 2005
Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-wearing blogger, Emma, reporting live from the heart of London! This city just makes me feel so alive, and the energy here is electric, it's like I've got glitter in my veins! This weekend's adventure is all about discovering London's hidden gems, finding the perfect ballet-inspired outfit and, of course, seeing a fabulous show.
So, where do we start? This Friday, I traded my Derbyshire fields for the bustling London train station. I was buzzing with anticipation, picturing myself swirling through Covent Garden in my new tutu, and it made the journey even more exciting! As I boarded the train, the anticipation just kept bubbling over, I even did a little pirouette in the aisle (sorry to the lady with the morning paper!).
London is a place where dreams come true, especially when you have a pink tutu by your side. Now, this blog post isn't just about sharing the beauty of London, but it's also a mission to convince you that life is infinitely more fabulous in a tutu. Because why should the magical world of ballet stay confined to the theatre?
First stop, a trip to Harrods! I have to admit, Harrods has a certain mystique that attracts me. The opulence of it all, the beautiful windows, and the grand setting are just incredible! And it's a haven for my sartorial fancies - especially for finding the perfect ballet-inspired outfit! I’ve got my eye on a gorgeous sequined bodice, perfect for my upcoming ballet performance, and maybe a pair of shimmering pink shoes that I can twirl around in.
Afternoon tea with a view After my Harrods expedition, I treated myself to a luxurious afternoon tea. This was not just any old afternoon tea, oh no, this one had a spectacular view over the city from a hotel overlooking the Thames. It was an incredibly elegant experience, with delicate sandwiches, pastries fit for royalty and endless cups of perfectly brewed tea.
A ballet-lover's paradise: But my favourite stop was a little vintage boutique tucked away on a cobblestone street. This hidden gem had a whole selection of stunning tutus, feather boas, and delicate vintage shoes – enough to make any ballet enthusiast’s head spin! I even found a stunning feather boa that was perfect for the upcoming Nutcracker performance! It's amazing how these shops hold these timeless treasures that evoke the spirit of a bygone era, perfect for my collection. I spent a good hour exploring this Aladdin's cave, coming away with a vintage lace scarf that reminded me of the 1920s ballets – my next inspiration!
Backstage Secrets: I always have to check out the ballet calendar for London. And, as fate would have it, there's a phenomenal performance of "Swan Lake" taking place at the Royal Opera House on Saturday. I simply cannot miss it! So much so that, I managed to snag a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Royal Opera House. Imagine, walking the same halls as the world’s greatest ballet dancers, it’s like living out a dream! My heart skipped a beat as I looked out into the grand auditorium.
The tour wasn't just about seeing the opulent settings; it was also about delving into the heart and soul of this ballet institution. I saw the intricate detail of the costumes, the dedication of the staff and the sheer talent that brought the ballets to life. It made me want to twirl my pink tutu even harder!
A little wanderlust and the heart of Covent Garden This weekend was about more than ballet. I wandered down Carnaby Street, admiring the street performers who added another layer of excitement to the city. There were singers, musicians, acrobats, all trying to capture the attention of the bustling London crowd. The whole atmosphere was so invigorating – you just get caught up in the excitement, it’s contagious!
My next stop was Covent Garden, an enchanting mix of history, culture, and entertainment. As I made my way past the stalls laden with souvenirs and treats, a charming violinist played a beautiful rendition of Mozart, a moment of pure bliss amongst the bustling market crowd. This area really encapsulates the artistic heart of London and, you guessed it, I couldn't resist adding a few more tutus to my collection, as well as a little vintage Parisian style hat to add that chic touch.
And finally, a delicious supper: To end the day, I found a cozy, Italian restaurant where I tucked into the most delicious pasta, relishing the rich flavours and aromas. Every bite transported me to the romantic streets of Italy, and for a moment I forgot about all the sightseeing and just indulged in the simple pleasures of food and company.
My Friday reflections: This Friday in London was everything I hoped it would be, a dazzling mixture of glitz and glamour, culture and discovery. Each corner I turned, each experience I encountered was a vibrant dance, a celebration of London's heart and soul. But the highlight of the trip? Seeing the "Swan Lake" performance, it truly embodied the graceful elegance and powerful beauty of classical ballet. Each movement, each arabesque, was like a poem in motion.
Next week’s adventure: So what does the week ahead hold? Well, a new ballet performance, an intriguing trip to the V&A Museum to immerse myself in fashion and design, and maybe even a visit to a hidden cafe nestled in a quiet corner of Kensington. But no matter what I explore, I'll be wearing my pink tutu – because every day is an opportunity to celebrate the joy of movement and self-expression.
Until next Friday, my lovelies! Stay fabulous! And never forget, life is more fun in a pink tutu!
Emma
* www.pink-tutu.com *
