#PinkTutuBlogLondon Friday 2016-07-01 Exploring London

Hello my darling tutu lovers!

It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, and I'm absolutely buzzing to be back in London! I'm writing to you from my cosy little hotel room, a haven of fluffy pillows and twirly tulle, feeling ridiculously excited about a weekend filled with everything I love.

Remember how I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that I’d managed to snag some fantastic gigs – performing at a lovely little theatre in Derbyshire and teaching some young ballet dancers at a workshop – which meant a much needed trip to London? Well, my dreams came true (and, of course, they were a fabulous pink dream!). The journey up by train was just delightful. I had a comfy window seat and the views of the English countryside flying by were truly inspiring. A fellow traveller even complimented me on my pink tutu! “It’s going to be a brilliant weekend”, I said to myself with a cheeky smile. It was time to step into London!

Now, before we dive into all the London loveliness, a quick update from Derbyshire. It was so fulfilling to be surrounded by young aspiring dancers again! It made me so happy seeing those twinkling eyes and beaming faces. What a wonderful thing it is, the world of ballet – full of grace, elegance and passion.

As for the theatre performance, let’s just say the stage lights are magic! Nothing beats the feeling of all those eyes on you, feeling the energy from the audience, and of course, getting those amazing dance steps in! This is what makes it all worthwhile. Plus, the money from those performances makes a trip to London, well, simply possible. I love the energy in this vibrant city, it is impossible not to be enthused.

Now, back to the reason for this blog. Today was about embracing the big, wide wonderful world of London. The sun was shining and the air hummed with the buzz of excitement. The city was a glorious playground, filled with sights and sounds that left me breathless!

1. * Covent Garden*: Stepping onto the cobbles of Covent Garden felt like entering a different era – think vibrant stalls bursting with blooms and quirky art, delicious aromas from food vendors, and street performers bringing the atmosphere to life. I, of course, was completely enamoured with the beautiful, opulent, historical buildings, particularly the stunning Royal Opera House. And a spot of street theatre? Always welcome in my world. I have to admit though, a twirling ballet street show might just steal the show...

2. The National Gallery: Oh, how I love a little art! London is a treasure trove of magnificent art, but today was for a classic favourite: the National Gallery. It never fails to mesmerize me with its collection of masterpieces, the incredible talent that is portrayed in those canvases!

3. Shopping, shopping, shopping! I know, I know, but it wouldn't be a trip to London without a bit of retail therapy. Forget high street fashion though. Forget department stores. I was on the hunt for the hidden gems - vintage stores brimming with fashion history and independent boutiques with unique, artistic pieces. Oh, and of course I ended up at a fabulously frilly shop, and bought a few (read many) more pink tutus to add to my collection. It was just too much temptation! (Can you ever have too many pink tutus? I think not!)

What could be more magical than strolling through the vibrant streets of London in a glorious pink tutu? It's my way of adding a touch of playful glamour to any occasion.

You should know, everyone just smiles when they see me in my pink tutu! That is one of the reasons I am so enthusiastic about it! There’s a bit of magic, a splash of color and it always gets people laughing! Londoners are especially fun. They seem to embrace individuality and love a splash of colour!

My favourite moments of today involved wearing a particularly spectacular tutu. (The pink silk is just to die for). First, it accompanied me as I explored the historic heart of London. Tourists pointed, children cheered and I was feeling on top of the world. Honestly, I felt like I was floating through the streets in a graceful ballet! I’m definitely a little bit of a walking exhibition for my favourite pink tutus.

Next, the tutu was the perfect complement to a afternoon at the Royal Ballet. As I gracefully waltzed into the majestic auditorium, the air hummed with excitement. A mix of awe and applause rippled through the audience. They loved the tutu! It is great to see so many others enthusiastic about ballet! London really is such a perfect place to share that love with so many.

Evenings in London are meant for glittering city lights and gourmet delights. But you won't find me at a boring old restaurant. Oh no! I am all about creating memories that spark the senses.

Instead, I headed off to a rooftop terrace restaurant with spectacular panoramic views of the London skyline. And, what's better than views of the Thames lit up at night? Dinner accompanied by an enchanting show of aerial acrobatics! Think ballet, circus and aerial acts combined! This truly embodied the London vibe I was feeling; a touch of glam, a dash of theatricality, and an artistic performance that truly took my breath away.

As I reflect on my fabulous day, I can't help but think how London feels like a city full of exciting opportunities. From dazzling stage performances and museums brimming with masterpieces to vintage shops bursting with beautiful things and those delightful bustling cafes, it seems there is so much to love! London’s magic is its ability to spark something within you – inspiration, dreams and sheer delight. I hope I managed to share that a little in my Pink Tutu Blog.

Now, it’s time to let those pink tutus relax after a long day and I am off to a little London night club for a little bit of live music! But before you head out, I do have to leave you with my final thoughts of today’s little adventure...

As you know, I absolutely believe in wearing pink tutus. It’s a little bit of magic for your everyday life! And in a city that pulsates with energy like London, pink tutus seem to just blend right in! And, when I get a glimpse of a fellow tutu lover rocking a tutu out there in the wild, well, I just have to say 'high five' (or 'high twirl', in my case). If I can encourage more people to embrace their individual flair and sense of fun, to simply twirl and celebrate, then I have done my job. The tutu might have originated in ballet but its purpose is so much bigger. It's a way to say, "I embrace my love of all things pink, all things fun, and I just love to dance." So, grab your favourite tutu, find your passion and dance your heart out. It's all about celebrating life, one twirl at a time!

Catch you all next Friday with another edition of my London blog on www.pink-tutu.com. Until then, remember to wear your pink tutu, be happy, be kind, and let your inner ballerina shine!

*Lots of love, *

Emma xoxo