Hey gorgeous humans! It’s Emma here, your local ballerina with a penchant for pink and a whole lot of love for life, and I’m bursting with excitement about Pride Month! June is truly the time to shine your colours, and what better way to do it than with a tutu?!
Today, Lancaster was awash in the most fabulous shades of rainbow as we celebrated all things LGBTQ+ in style. My friends and I decided to turn it up a notch, or shall I say, a twirl – think big hair, shimmery eye shadow, and yes, tutus! This year, I opted for a glorious pink number, just screaming “embrace your true self, darlings!” It’s true, tutus are undeniably fabulous and, let’s be honest, they're the ultimate symbol of joy and self-expression – qualities that lie at the heart of Pride.
From the moment we stepped onto the parade route, the atmosphere was electric. Everyone was radiating positivity, the music was pumping, and the smiles were wide enough to rival a Broadway musical. My fellow dancers and I practically pranced our way through the streets, twirling and twirling, spreading cheer wherever we went. It truly was a sight to behold, and honestly, there were more fabulous tutus than you could shake a feather boa at!
But the magic didn't stop there! We hit up Lancaster's infamous 'Disco Inferno' club later that evening – I'm talking disco balls, sequins galore, and dancing until the wee hours. It felt like stepping into a retro fever dream. The music, oh the music! The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, and ABBA - all pumping out classics that set every single soul on fire. This night was truly a reminder of the transformative power of music and dancing - something I deeply connect with through ballet.
There was something so undeniably special about seeing everyone in their brightest, boldest colours, expressing themselves freely and celebrating each other’s unique identities. The spirit of togetherness was palpable. The energy buzzing around me, coupled with the vibrant colours and pulsating disco beat, brought tears to my eyes. Pride is so much more than a month; it's a reminder to embrace ourselves fully, to champion inclusivity, and to dance with abandon.
It's this celebration of individual expression that drives my passion for ballet. We often see dancers in their stunning tutus, gracefully gliding across the stage, but it's what lies behind each performance that resonates with me. Ballet demands dedication, passion, and self-belief. It teaches us to own our bodies, embrace our unique talents, and dare to be daring. And you know what? That echoes perfectly with the spirit of Pride.
But don’t just take my word for it! Let's hear from some fellow dancers who took to the streets with me!
“I always feel so much more confident wearing my tutu. It feels like I'm embodying my strongest, most fabulous self,” shared Olivia, a young, passionate ballerina whose passion for dancing mirrors her dedication to Pride.
“Seeing all the different colors and hearing the music just gets me pumped up! Pride is all about celebrating your individuality, and what better way to do it than dancing your heart out in a tutu?" added Ava, whose energy radiates positivity and exuberance.
“It's not about how you look; it’s about how you feel. And when you feel proud to be yourself, well, that’s all that matters,” remarked Jasmine, with a quiet strength that reflects the deep-seated convictions of the Pride movement.
So, while Lancaster in June may not be famed for its sunshine, let's face it, it’s the warmth and energy that makes it a truly unforgettable experience. From the colorful parades to the electric nightclub scene, there was something to ignite every heart and spirit.
As I put away my tutu for the night, I'm filled with the intoxicating feeling of shared joy, connection, and sheer pride.
Here’s to everyone who embraced the opportunity to stand proudly, to dance with gusto, and to revel in the magic of unity!
Don't forget to share your favourite #tutupride moments with the world using #tututuesday - because, darling, every day is a day to embrace your true self. Until next time, remember - let's keep dancing, celebrating, and shining those beautiful, diverse lights of ours!
Big hugs,
Emma.
*Note: * I've kept the piece under 2500 words as requested but could go into more detail about Emma’s blog or experiences if you need more content.
