Hello lovelies! Emma here, your pink tutu-wearing, ballet-loving guide to all things fabulous. Today is Friday, and I'm finally back in London! The train journey was a joy as usual. Nothing beats watching the countryside fly by, a hot chocolate in hand, and a new pink tulle skirt swishing around my ankles. Yes, I'm sporting a brand new pink tutu, and this time, it's shimmering with iridescent sequins. My mum bought it for me as a thank you for last month's performances at the Royal Opera House. That's right, I'm actually funding these trips with my ballet performances. It's been a long journey, but the joy of sharing my passion and inspiring others to twirl their way through life is so rewarding.
This weekend is going to be jam-packed, and it all begins with my Friday frolics in London! Let me take you with me on my journey...
From Paddington to The National Gallery: Art and Tutus!
Landing in Paddington, I couldn't help but feel a burst of energy. There's just something about the city air, the hustle and bustle, the sound of buses, the aroma of street food, that fills you with excitement. My first stop? A quick change in the bathroom (always gotta be prepared!) before heading straight for The National Gallery. It's a Friday, so it's busy, but that adds to the charm!
Today's exhibit features 19th-century British art, and I'm on the hunt for inspiration for my own creative work. I love capturing moments in art, translating the feeling into graceful dance moves. Think of it like my ballet vocabulary growing bigger by the day. One of my favourite pieces is "The Blue Boy" by Gainsborough. It's a classic and the colour blue always makes me think of tutus... hmm... I wonder if there's a blue tutu I could get made... ponders, notes idea down in her Moleskin notebook.
Of course, I had to be a little silly, and for a few moments, I slipped into the role of a 19th-century ballerina. Imagine the most whimsical waltz around the "Lady with the Ermine"! Thankfully, nobody threw tomatoes! laughs. But in my head, it was a masterpiece! twirls playfully
A Fashionable Feast at Covent Garden
After my cultural injection, it was time for a touch of Covent Garden magic. A quick tube ride and we're here! This iconic London spot is always buzzing with energy. I love its blend of street performers, boutique shops, and cafes. And oh, the clothes! From vintage finds to independent designer gems, this place is a haven for any fashion enthusiast like myself.
I can't resist popping into Liberty London. The building itself is a stunning work of art! Inside, there's a curated selection of designers, craftspeople, and labels that make my heart skip a beat. A perfect spot for inspiration for my next ballet performance outfit! (I think it might be red and gold. I spotted the most stunning sequined top).
But fashion is about more than just clothes, right? It's about a feeling, an expression. Covent Garden certainly delivers on that front. Today's market was extra special thanks to a delightful street musician playing a violin version of Vivaldi's "Spring" concerto. Talk about bringing out the ballerina in me! sways with the music It made me think about incorporating Vivaldi into my upcoming choreography for our annual summer concert back home in Derbyshire. I need to remember to mention it to Sarah (our dance instructor) next week when I head back to the studio!
The Delightful World of The Globe Theatre
As afternoon turned to evening, I knew my next stop had to be The Globe Theatre. It's a marvel, a historical masterpiece! I simply love the history of this place and the theatrical magic it holds. Stepping onto the wooden stage feels like stepping back in time. Imagine all the plays that have unfolded within those walls, the actors and actresses, the audiences – so much history!
For me, it's like entering another world, a world where stories unfold with vibrant energy. The Globe is more than just a building. It's a platform for human emotion, for laughter, drama, and love.
I'm catching the performance of “Twelfth Night”, and you know what's great? You don't even need to sit! You're encouraged to roam, experience the atmosphere, feel the magic of it all. I absolutely loved it!
Of course, I couldn't leave without a souvenir – a gorgeous hand-painted book featuring Shakespeare's most famous lines. My inner Shakespeare fan is delighted.
The Dazzling West End: A Night at the Theatre
With my mind abuzz from the play and my heart filled with the joy of performance, I had one final stop: The West End. You can't visit London without seeing a musical, right? I’m seeing "Mamma Mia!" at the Novello Theatre.
And wouldn't you know it? The entire theater is bursting with energy, even before the music starts. It's not just the play itself, it's the anticipation, the sense of excitement in the air. Everyone here is ready for a show! I love seeing other people dressed up in their best outfits. My sequins really feel at home amongst this vibrant energy. twirls happily
The cast was brilliant, of course! I couldn't help but be drawn to their energy, the passion radiating from them as they sang, danced, and brought the story to life. It was simply infectious! And as for the singing! starts singing "Dancing Queen, young and sweet, only seventeen…"
I love that the audience is part of the performance. We are invited to sing along and feel the emotion of every scene, and everyone in the theatre does it with such enthusiasm! This show reminds me of my own love of storytelling through dance, of using every fiber of my being to make someone smile. It's truly inspiring!
Final Thoughts on my Friday Frolics:
So there you have it, another delightful day in London! My feet may be a little weary (all that walking!), but my heart is overflowing with joy! What a whirlwind of emotions, experiences, and pure pink tutu fun!
I know that everyone reading this has a unique way of exploring the world, and I encourage you to find that passion that sets your soul on fire, whether it’s music, fashion, dance, or anything that fills you with happiness. Life is meant to be lived in a tutu of joy!
And don't forget, you can check out the latest tutu-tastic outfit of the week (with some sneak peeks of what I'm wearing in upcoming shows) on our website www.pink-tutu.com.
See you next Friday for more adventures! And remember: "Always twirl, even when it's hard, even when it's raining, even when life throws you a curveball. That's what tutus are for. To remind us that life is a dance, a journey filled with wonder, and with every spin, we become a little bit closer to the dream."
Keep twirling!
Emma
xx
