Saturday 30th October 2010
Oh là là! Paris! It's always so thrilling to arrive in this magical city. The Eurostar journey is always a joy, even if it's just a whispy two and a half hours – enough time to finish off my latest embroidery project (currently a gorgeous pink silk ballet slipper to adorn the front of my tote bag). The moment we hit the Gare du Nord station, the Parisian energy crackles around me, a sweet and delicious hum that electrifies my pink-tinged spirit!
I love that I'm funding my travel dreams through my passion for dance. Performing a few evenings a week, sometimes in lovely little country theatres and sometimes even on larger stages, keeps me happy, graceful and financially afloat! And let's be honest, there's nothing more fabulous than donning your pointe shoes and captivating an audience with a perfect pirouette!
I arrived with a brand-new pink tutu for the trip – naturally – adorned with an elaborate design of sparkling crystal sequins that catch the Parisian moonlight. A girl's gotta shine, darling! After settling into our charming little hotel on a quiet street near the Palais Garnier, it was time for a quick change and a dash to the Opéra Garnier!
My absolute favourite thing about visiting Paris is indulging in the exquisite spectacle of its grand theatres. I've been lucky enough to catch many incredible shows here: from traditional ballets to modern dance performances and, of course, those wonderful, glamorous musicals. But there’s something especially enchanting about seeing a performance at the Palais Garnier. Just being in that magnificent, grand space with the beautiful ornate detailing and history emanating from every corner, is absolutely divine! It's like stepping into a gilded dream!
Tonight's show was “Giselle”, a classic romantic ballet about love, loss, and the power of sacrifice. As the curtain rose and the orchestra started their first flourish, a frisson of excitement shot through me, a little bit of goosebumps dancing along my pink-tutu-clad arms. The ballerina was sublime, every gesture conveying raw emotion with delicate precision. Even though I know the story by heart, I can’t help getting caught up in the drama, especially as Giselle’s betrayal, grief, and ultimate sacrifice unfolded on stage. I found myself teary-eyed, which, I must admit, I am not immune to during particularly affecting moments!
Of course, no visit to Paris is complete without a little shopping therapy. And darling, this city does not disappoint! Tomorrow I’m going to delve into the legendary Galeries Lafayette – my happy place! Can you imagine, acres of designer labels, luxury brands, and… you guessed it – a pink tulle paradise! I've been itching to add some fabulous French fashion pieces to my wardrobe. Maybe a stunning silk scarf with delicate pink embroidery, or a chic beret to compliment my ballerina-chic Parisian style! Oh, I am already picturing my outfits!
Before I head off for some well-deserved rest (and dreams of tutus, naturally), I must tell you about a wonderful little boutique I stumbled across just behind the Opéra Garnier. It’s called "La Petite Ballerine" and it is crammed full of vintage ballet costumes, shoes, accessories, and even some beautiful hand-crafted tutus! The owner, Madame Dubois, is a charming little lady with a contagious smile and an encyclopedic knowledge of ballet history. She told me about the very first ballet, created by Catherine de Medici in the 16th century! The very idea that these iconic performances have been captivating audiences for centuries makes my little heart sing with delight!
So, darlings, that's all for now! I'm sure you'll be seeing some chic Parisian-inspired pink tutu outfits soon. And who knows, maybe I’ll be gracing you with photos of some gorgeous new French finds! Until then, keep your tutus at the ready and remember – the world is your stage, darling!
Stay twirling! Emma x www.pink-tutu.com
