Post Number 1239: Friday, 2020-05-29
Hello, darlings!
It's your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, Emma, here, back with another fabulous Friday blog post! As you know, London calls me like a siren song, and this week was no exception. The call of the theatre, the allure of the city's best boutiques, the promise of delicious treats… How could I resist?
From Derbyshire to the Capital by Rail
The journey itself was half the fun. I simply adore train travel. There's something so magical about hurtling through the countryside, watching the landscape whizz by, all while sipping a cup of Earl Grey and planning my London adventures.
First Stop: Covent Garden Market
Once I arrived at Paddington Station, the excitement was already bubbling over! First stop? Covent Garden Market, of course. It's a cornucopia of delights – everything from artisan crafts to mouth-watering street food, with a delightful sprinkling of quirky characters to boot! I always manage to find some incredible trinkets here – this time it was a vintage pink pearl hair clip and a beautiful hand-painted teacup, which I just had to buy!
Pink Power at The Royal Opera House
After lunching on a delectable Eton mess (oh, those raspberries!) I headed to the heart of London theatre - The Royal Opera House. I managed to snag some fabulous front-row tickets to a mesmerising production of Swan Lake! The ballet was breathtaking, and the dancers' grace and strength simply stole my breath away. The exquisite costumes, particularly those of the swans, were like dreams spun in tulle and feathers.
Ballet Bootcamp and a Tutu Refresher
It was almost midnight, but I wasn't quite done with the magic of ballet yet! Luckily, there's an absolutely darling little ballet studio near Covent Garden that offers classes right up until the wee hours. After a wonderfully challenging barre session, I popped into a nearby shop to grab a new tutu – you simply cannot have too many! This time, it's a frothy confection in a delightful shade of coral pink, just perfect for summer strolls.
Shopping Extravaganza and a Touch of London Glamour
Saturday was all about indulgence and exploration! My dear friend, Amelia, and I embarked on a shopping spree fit for a princess (and I might be biased, but she looked like a proper princess in her lilac-coloured tutu, complete with sparkly tiara!)
Our first stop was Selfridges. Let me tell you, the sheer size of that department store is almost overwhelming. It’s a fashion lover’s dream! But Amelia and I managed to navigate its luxurious maze of designer labels with an unerring sense of purpose.
Our loot? I walked out with a darling new polka-dot cardigan in the most exquisite shade of blush pink and a pair of sparkling ballerina flats – perfect for both twirling and traversing London’s cobbled streets. Amelia found a bewitching floral-print dress that brought out her inner-fairy, and she couldn’t resist a sparkly new tutu with shimmering blue sequins – an excellent addition to her own impressive collection.
The afternoon was spent indulging in the ultimate London experience - a charming afternoon tea at the Ritz Hotel. You can’t go to London without having afternoon tea! The selection of sandwiches, cakes and scones was out of this world – all served with our own personal pot of fragrant Darjeeling. We even managed to snag a glimpse of a few celebrities in their best posh attire – nothing like a spot of people-watching to add to the excitement of a London trip.
Sunday Funday and a Trip Down Memory Lane
On Sunday, I decided to wander further afield and rediscover some of London’s charming hidden corners. My first destination was the iconic British Museum. Stepping into that grand hall with its imposing statues and ancient artifacts transported me back in time. I was fascinated by the exhibits – especially those about Egyptian civilisation!
From there, I hopped on the London Eye for a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline. London’s a sight to behold, a sprawling, vibrant urban jungle bursting with character and energy. As I gazed out at the river, the Buckingham Palace and all those majestic buildings, it was like witnessing the beating heart of history itself!
The Call of the Theatre (Again!)
But no trip to London would be complete without another taste of the theatre. My Sunday night was dedicated to an absolutely unforgettable show – “Mamma Mia!” at the Novello Theatre.
Mamma Mia is an absolute gem! Those feel-good ABBA classics were sung with such joy and energy – and there were a few unexpected ballet flourishes throughout that tickled me to my toes!
Pink Tutu Diaries: Wrapping up in London
London, you truly stole my heart once again! With every visit, you unfold new adventures, reveal new treasures and inspire a deeper love for this amazing city.
I've returned to Derbyshire with a heart full of memories, a closet overflowing with beautiful new finds and, most importantly, a renewed passion for the beauty of ballet, fashion, and all things pink.
Join me next Friday for another Pink Tutu blog adventure! Until then, stay fabulous, stay positive, and maybe…just maybe…add a touch of pink tutu magic to your own life. You never know – it might just change everything!
Emma 💖
www.pink-tutu.com
PS: For those curious, here’s a quick snippet about what’s on in London on the 29th May 2020 (and this year!)
Ballet:
- Swan Lake at The Royal Opera House
- Various ballet performances by smaller dance companies
Theatre:
- Mamma Mia at the Novello Theatre
- Hamlet at the National Theatre
- Numerous other West End productions
Music:
- The Royal Philharmonic Concert at Royal Albert Hall
- A variety of smaller music performances around the city
Art:
- Contemporary Art at the Tate Modern
- Masterpieces at the National Gallery
PPS: Want to keep up with my ballet-themed London adventures? Don't forget to follow me on social media for more pink tutu magic and fun!
- Instagram: @pinktutublogger
- Twitter: @PinkTutuEmma
Always remember, my lovelies – embrace your inner ballerina and wear that pink tutu with pride! 💖🩰
