#PinkTutuBlogLondon Friday 2018-02-23 Exploring London

Hello lovelies! It’s Emma here, ready to whisk you away on a whirl of a journey, from the rolling hills of Derbyshire to the bustling heart of London! Yes, it's Friday again, which means it's time to twirl my way onto the web and share my latest adventure. And this week? Well, my darling dears, let me tell you, London's magic has woven a spell over me yet again! 🪄

Oh, the train ride was a joy. The wind whistling through the countryside, my new pink ballet-inspired top catching the sunlight as I leaned against the window, the rhythm of the tracks hypnotizing me into a state of bliss… truly a perfect start to the day.

Now, London is my muse, my creative fuel. And as you all know, I wouldn't dare arrive without my signature piece: the pink tutu! Today, I opted for a bright, bouncy tulle that danced around my ankles with every step. You know what they say, "When in doubt, wear pink!" 🌸

So, let me paint a picture of my London ballet blitz:

First stop, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, for a glorious showing of 'An American in Paris' - I adore ballet on stage. Oh, how those graceful leaps and effortless spins filled me with joy! From the stunning choreography to the iconic Gershwin score, it was truly magical. And don't even get me started on the costumes! Such incredible detail, such flowing lines - I nearly fainted from sheer aesthetic ecstasy! 💖

Afterwards, a little tea and a delectable cake were just what I needed. You know, there’s nothing like a good afternoon tea to calm those artistic nerves! ☕️🍰

My ballet heart was soaring, so off to the Royal Opera House I went, a London landmark brimming with history and elegance. Now, the building itself is quite something, a majestic piece of architecture. And inside? Well, it’s just dazzling. But you know me - it’s all about the ballet! This time, a spellbinding performance of "Romeo & Juliet" – just imagine those passionate emotions woven through the dancing. It took my breath away! The costumes, the choreography, the powerful emotions - oh my, it was a complete sensory delight! 😍

Afterward, it was time for some fashion therapy! It's a cardinal rule for any true ballerina – shop 'til you drop! The Regent Street shops are like a haven of designer heaven - the perfect place to indulge in some tutu-inspired window-shopping. Oh, the beautiful dresses, the delicate fabrics, the shimmering sequins! This is my heaven, a place where my love of ballet and fashion collide in a dazzling spectacle! ✨

To be honest, a little bit of ballet fatigue set in by late afternoon, so I grabbed a well-deserved spot in one of those quintessential red London buses for a relaxing journey to Covent Garden. It’s the perfect place to find those quirky, independent boutiques that speak to my creative spirit. A gorgeous ballet-themed bag here, a shimmering pink clutch there - and I couldn’t resist picking up some delicate pearl earrings. Just imagine them glinting under the stage lights! 🌟

Oh, and I found the cutest little ballet shoe-shaped keyring, which promptly landed on my pink handbag. What’s a girl to do when she falls in love? (No shame here - I’m a girly girl!) 😉

By the time the lights began to shimmer in the twilight sky, I knew it was time for a change of pace, so I made my way to the magical London Eye. To stand high above the cityscape, with its iconic buildings sprawling out beneath you, it really is breathtaking. It’s not hard to see why London has captured the hearts of so many.

Then, for a taste of the traditional, I dined on a scrumptious fish and chips – my personal London favourite! I simply can’t go to London without indulging in this timeless treat. The crunchy batter, the fluffy chips – I do believe this could become a new pink-tutu tradition! 🤤

The evening was simply delightful, and a quick stop at a quaint pub to mingle with locals finished off my day. Now, my feet may have been aching, but my heart was full. 👣💕

Every Friday, as you know, I embark on a new adventure - London, Paris, New York, you name it! I do what I do for one simple reason: I want to share my passion with the world, and maybe, just maybe, inspire some of you to put on your own pink tutus. I believe we can spread kindness, creativity, and a bit of pink sparkle wherever we go. It’s the power of the pink tutu! 🩰💖

If you'd like to share your own pink tutu adventures, leave a comment below!

Until next time, remember, life is too short for drab colours and ordinary days. Embrace the pink, wear the tutu, and dance your heart out!

Happy Friday everyone!

Love, Emma 💋

This Friday is a treasure trove of happenings. If you are in London today, make sure to catch the "An American in Paris" performance at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane! But if your taste runs towards classic, you might want to see "Romeo & Juliet" at the Royal Opera House. There’s something for everyone!

Plus, the annual Covent Garden flower market is in full bloom - just a treat for the senses. The vibrant colours, the fragrant blossoms - just magical! 🌸

You know me, my lovelies - I am a ballerina, but I love a good London show, so here are some things that caught my eye today:

• Theatre:

  • "An American in Paris" at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. A must-see for any dance lover!
  • "The Bodyguard" at the Adelphi Theatre: The musical adaptation of the film.
  • "Hamilton" at the Victoria Palace Theatre.
  • "Mamma Mia!" at the Novello Theatre.
    • "Wicked" at the Apollo Victoria Theatre - It's truly wickedly delightful!

• Opera & Ballet:

  • "Romeo & Juliet" at the Royal Opera House - it was simply divine.
  • "La Traviata" at the Royal Opera House - A stunning interpretation.
    • "The Magic Flute" at the Royal Opera House - For those who love Mozart!
    • "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the English National Ballet

• Exhibitions * "Fashion from the Met" at the Victoria and Albert Museum - You will find exquisite historical garments.

  • "Michelangelo: Divine Draftsman & Designer" at the Royal Academy of Arts

  • "Picasso 1932 - Love, Fame, Tragedy" at Tate Modern

    • Art:

    • The Tate Modern for modern art enthusiasts - a must-visit if you are in London.

    • The National Gallery is full of masterpieces.
    • The National Portrait Gallery houses famous faces.

I would also recommend catching a performance at the Globe Theatre for a taste of Shakespeare in an authentic setting - it's so immersive. Don’t forget to visit the National Theatre - home to incredible plays, new and classic!

Since this is a travel blog, let me drop a few gems on travelling to London, my favourite place in the world:

1. Trains: It is so easy to travel to London by train! I’m so used to my Derbyshire train station! The services are frequent, clean, and quite comfy, which I appreciate after hours spent practicing ballet! I’m a true believer in railway travel. And London’s railway network gets you practically anywhere you need to be!

2. The Tube: Don’t get scared, the Underground, or “The Tube” as the locals call it, is great, too! I always try to figure out a quick Tube journey when I can - it’s so quick and convenient. There are also quite a few Underground stations that are quite spectacular. I love seeing the old architecture and the vintage design - it really gives London an air of vintage glamour, which is why I love this city!

3. Get an Oyster Card: It’s easy to pay for all those Tube and bus trips using this prepaid card. Top it up with cash or use your debit card to reload your credit at one of the many ticket machines. It’s a London must!

4. Walk: London’s really walkable and I really enjoy exploring all those little corners and secret streets. And if you do a little shopping, you might find you’ve taken a few miles in a matter of hours. London’s a walking city.

5. Be Prepared: London’s usually a lovely, vibrant, and generally quite safe city, but make sure you check the weather. Londoners are pretty casual about everything, so come prepared for anything – warm clothes, an umbrella, some sunshine - a girl’s got to be ready for everything! And of course, don’t forget your pink tutu! 😊

London, you continue to inspire me. Thank you for your beauty, your excitement, and your endless possibilities. Now, go forth and find your own pink tutu. It’s out there waiting for you!

Remember: the power of pink is all around us! Let's spread a little glitter and sparkle with every twirl. ✨ 💖

Stay fabulous, Emma