Hello my darling Tutu Twirlers!
It's Friday, the 11th of November, 2011, and Emma's back in London! After a week back in the Derbyshire countryside, I'm thrilled to be back in the bustling capital, my tutu twirling like a London cabby's flag!
This week, I’m exploring the magic of London, fueled by the energy of the Royal Opera House and a very special performance of 'The Nutcracker'. You see, dear readers, the beauty of dancing professionally is that it's like a magic portal, whisking me off to incredible places. This week's performance earned me a trip to London! I've already spotted a couple of stunning tutus in Selfridges - I'm like a magpie for sequins and tulle! It's just an irresistible feeling, being back in London. I feel so full of energy!
Today’s adventure started in the peak district. I waved goodbye to the rolling green hills, my heart already yearning for London's charm. But the Derbyshire air always reminds me of how much I adore both the country and the city - just two very different versions of a fairytale!
My First Stop: A Pink Dream at Victoria Station
Boarding the train to London felt like being swept away into a storybook adventure! There's just something magical about travelling by train - a rhythm to the clickety-clack on the tracks. You never know who you'll meet in a train carriage – could be a fellow ballerina heading for the Royal Ballet, or a playwright on their way to the Globe. Either way, there’s always an air of intrigue and creativity.
And yes, you guessed it - my little pink tutu travelled with me, of course! The other passengers on the train definitely got a chuckle out of seeing my twirling in the carriage as the landscape rushed past. There were a couple of disapproving glances, but honestly, who cares about that! It's about spreading the joy of tutus, isn't it? One pink twirl at a time, that's my motto.
My journey started in the beautiful town of Derby, but as I arrived in London Victoria, I couldn't believe the rush of it all! But hey, that's part of what makes London, London - the fast-paced energy, the constant change, the sights, sounds and stories that fill every corner.
London: The World in a City
My favourite thing about London is the mix of modern and classic. It's a city where the past meets the future in a way that's simply captivating. I walked along the cobblestones near the Thames, dreaming of all the history they’d seen - from Shakespearean plays to the roar of Londoners cheering their favourite football team. And then, a few steps away, a modern skyscraper gleamed against the cloud-filled sky - a perfect testament to London’s daring vision!
After a quick trip to the ladies' (yes, pink tutu had to make a pit stop, of course!), I went to the Borough Market, a buzzing feast for the senses. I was absolutely mesmerized by the fresh produce, vibrant cheeses and steaming hot street food. The air was full of delicious smells - I swear I could even smell the warm aroma of gingerbread from a Christmas market that's starting up this weekend.
But even with all this yummy food, there's one thing London does better than anyone: tea! I found myself lost in the warm glow of a little cafe by St. Paul's. It's just like stepping back in time - the comfy chairs, the teapots steaming, and the friendly chatter creating a lovely, nostalgic atmosphere.
The Art of Shopping! (But not just any shopping…)
I’m sure you're wondering, what's a pink-tutu-loving girl do in London? You’re right to ask. It’s shopping time! Of course, any tutu-lover knows, it's not just about shopping; it's about a journey through fashion! So, off I went on a pilgrimage to my favourite haven - Selfridges on Oxford Street!
I'm telling you, my darlings, that store is pure magic! Imagine this: rows and rows of stunning designer dresses, shoes that glimmer like stars and the scent of freshly pressed clothes. It's intoxicating, and you wouldn't believe the amount of gorgeous fabrics, tulle, and dazzling pink hues I spotted - everything a girl's heart desires!
I'm already plotting how I'll add some Selfridge flair to my next tutu performance – think delicate chiffon and glittering sequins!
But I can’t just flit from one store to the next - even a tutu queen like me has a mission. It's a secret that I can't reveal right now, but it’s about finding the perfect dress for a certain important date - I just know it's going to involve a whole lot of sparkle.
Royal Delight: The Ballet at Covent Garden
The main reason for my London escapade is a beautiful night at the Royal Opera House. You all know my love for ballet; it's a language that transcends words! To see a ballet performance, it’s like stepping into a world where magic, grace and beauty collide.
I was especially looking forward to "The Nutcracker". As a ballet lover, it’s a tradition I treasure! And I knew seeing this masterpiece in London, at the very heart of theatre magic, would be an incredible experience. And let me tell you, the Royal Ballet never fails to wow! The costumes, the artistry, the precision... it was like watching the dreams of ballerinas take shape onstage. Each move, each lift, was filled with grace and breathtaking emotion!
It's not just about the moves and the costumes - the music is magical too. Tchaikovsky's score - I could hear those melodies in my sleep, they were so beautiful.
My favourite part, however, was the Sugar Plum Fairy’s solo - a dazzling performance that I think inspired a few twirls from the audience. It’s moments like this when you can’t help but lose yourself in the music and movement.
You know I'm not the type to shy away from a good outfit. My tutu, with its shimmering, pearlescent tones, really stood out in the theatre's plush velvet and rich lighting. As I slipped on my dancing shoes in the changing room, I felt a spark of excitement run through me, and I thought to myself - "Maybe it's not about the dress; maybe it’s about the way you move inside it!"
London is Calling!
Even though I've spent the entire week running around the capital like a crazy ballerina, I can't deny that it’s exhausting! My body may be sore, and I could really go for a warm bath right now (think fluffy bathrobe and maybe some calming music), but there's no denying - London is calling me back! I have so many more adventures in store for next week. And trust me, my tutu is ready to twirl all around the capital - who knows what fabulous things await us?
In the meantime, keep your pink tutu dream alive, darling twirlers, and let’s get those twirls going until next Friday! I can’t wait to share more of my London adventures with you.
Love,
Emma xx
P.S.: Make sure you check out www.pink-tutu.com to see all the latest photos, reviews and inspiration, and remember to spread the joy! Every day can be a pink-tutu adventure! Share your best moments with the #PinkTutu hashtag and you never know - you might just find yourself featured in a future blog!
