Hello my darling tutus!
It's Emma here, fresh from a whirlwind trip to Gateshead! And let me tell you, my pink tutu has never felt so alive. You see, this wasn't just any trip; it was a ballet pilgrimage - a trip dedicated to celebrating the magic of dance in all its forms. And, wouldn't you know it, the colour pink was very much in the air.
As always, I travelled in style - no boring buses or car journeys for this girl. No, I took the train! Now, let's be honest, trains aren't always the most glamorous mode of transport, but I find something truly enchanting about chugging through the English countryside with a good book, a spot of pink fizz, and a fabulous view.
Reaching Gateshead, I was swept away by the buzzing atmosphere. This charming city, with its mix of industrial heritage and vibrant art scene, has a special energy that’s almost tangible. There’s an element of 'anything goes' about it, which made me feel right at home with my pink tutu and all.
The highlight of my trip was undoubtedly the 'Ballet Beyond' show at The Sage Gateshead. The venue itself is spectacular - all sleek glass and flowing curves. Inside, the air crackled with excitement.
I don't want to give away too many spoilers, but let's just say that the dance pieces were a breathtaking spectacle! We had contemporary, classical, and even a little bit of tap! The choreography was phenomenal, and the dancers' athleticism left me breathless. My own tutu, by the way, positively twirled in its excitement.
What struck me most was the way the dancers managed to evoke such a range of emotions – laughter, sadness, joy, even a little bit of terror - all through the expressive movement of their bodies. It was almost like watching a story unfold before my very eyes, but with no words. Pure, beautiful, expressive magic.
Of course, no ballet trip is complete without a class. Now, I've always said that every single person on this planet should try ballet at least once. Why? Because it's bloody marvellous, darling! You might think it's all pirouettes and plies, but there's so much more to it than that. It’s a fantastic way to strengthen your core, improve your posture, and find a sense of grace within yourself - even if your leaps are more froggie than leaping (and trust me, mine can be pretty comical at times!).
I went for a beginner’s class at the Northern Ballet School, tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. It was full of beginners like myself, all stumbling over each other with giggles and awkward grace. It was the perfect antidote to all that theatrical polish from the 'Ballet Beyond' show. It felt genuinely heartwarming and encouraging to share that moment of joy and awkwardness with fellow enthusiasts, some who'd never even worn a ballet shoe before! It was proof that everyone can find their inner dancer, and their pink tutu, with a little bit of practice and a whole lot of fun!
One thing that made Gateshead extra special was the stunning countryside that surrounds it. It's absolutely teeming with wildlife! Imagine this: my morning coffee, a good book, a crisp autumn air, and, around me, deer grazing on sunlit meadows. Honestly, who needs a safari when you have this?! I'd much rather spend a day in the tranquil embrace of a British wood than brave the chaotic throngs of an African game reserve. Plus, there's something wonderfully comforting about watching those gentle, elegant creatures graze on green grass in their natural habitat.
Speaking of elegant, my beloved tutu felt positively regal against that vibrant natural backdrop. Honestly, there’s nothing that makes me feel more confident and stylish than twirling in a vibrant pink tutu, my Derbyshire charm on full display. Let's be honest, everyone feels fabulous in a tutu!
You know, it’s my dream to see a world where everyone, from the smallest child to the oldest soul, wears a pink tutu at least once in their life. It’s more than just fashion – it's about breaking free from societal expectations, celebrating your unique self, and reminding everyone that life is for celebrating!
So, dear readers, let’s take inspiration from the vibrant energy of Gateshead! Put on your fanciest pink tutu, take a deep breath, and let yourself go. And who knows, maybe one day, you might just see a pink tutu-clad me bounding past you in the countryside on my way to my next ballet adventure!
Keep shining, lovelies,
Emma
xxx
