Post 170 - December 20th, 1996
Hello my dearest tutu-lovers! It's Emma here, writing to you from the charming town of Kingswood! Today's adventures involved a delightful trip on the train, the majesty of a grand old theatre, and - you guessed it! - a perfectly pink tutu!
I do love a good train journey. The rhythmic clinking of the wheels on the tracks, the fleeting glimpses of countryside, and the feeling of leaving worries behind me all contribute to a lovely feeling of calm and anticipation. This particular journey was especially scenic as I travelled through the English countryside. The landscape was a masterpiece of changing colours, from the emerald greens of the rolling fields to the burnt oranges and golds of the woods, with a sprinkle of red-roofed villages tucked amongst them all.
Arriving in Kingswood, I was met with the bustling energy of a town preparing for its festive season. The smell of roasted chestnuts and gingerbread filled the air, and carols drifted through the cobbled streets, adding a magical air to everything. My destination? The majestic Kingswood Theatre, a beautiful Victorian gem that stood proudly overlooking the town. Tonight, they were holding a special ballet performance, and I simply couldn't miss it!
But first, the most important ritual: getting into my tutu! I’d chosen a lovely creation for this performance, a European-style tutu, delicate and flowing with a pale pink chiffon skirt that swirled beautifully. I adore the elegance of the European tutus. They have such a graceful air, a perfect balance of soft and sophisticated, just like a gentle, ethereal ballet performance. A touch of pale pink glitter on the bodice made me feel absolutely ready for the magic of the stage.
The Kingswood Theatre was packed with eager audiences, all in their festive finest. The buzz of anticipation in the air was palpable, and my heart skipped a beat as I took my seat. The stage lights dimmed, the orchestra began to play, and then, the magic unfolded!
It was a truly delightful ballet performance. It wasn't your typical full-length story ballet, this was more of a collection of diverse, creative pieces all set to music with strong, interesting themes. It was an exciting mix of storytelling, contemporary dance and a sprinkle of classical ballet techniques. The performers moved like wisps of smoke, with strength and fluidity, drawing you in with every delicate step and graceful arm gesture. It truly was a masterpiece, an inspiring performance full of passionate movement and captivating energy.
But, it wasn't just the artistry that delighted me. The very act of being surrounded by so many ballet lovers, in a setting steeped in history, was incredibly special. To witness the joy and the shared appreciation for the art form was simply magical. The air was filled with gasps and applause as each piece unfolded, and even as the final curtain fell, a quiet energy remained.
Leaving the theatre, I felt a sense of inspiration that would remain with me long after the final applause had faded. Kingswood, with its historical charm, festive atmosphere, and a stage alive with beauty and grace, had captured a piece of my heart.
My adventures didn't end there though! I felt the need to stretch my legs and breathe in some fresh air, so I took a wander along the banks of the river. The crisp evening air felt revitalising as I enjoyed the calming scene of swans gracefully gliding across the water. The sound of their quiet croaking punctuated the symphony of the wind whispering through the trees. There was something about their quiet serenity that seemed to fit perfectly with the day's journey - the artistry, the energy, and the gentle calm. It felt almost like the swans themselves were sharing in the joy of a performance well-done, a kind of dance of their own, but without a stage and without applause. Just for themselves, for the moment, and for the beauty of being in nature.
As the stars began to pepper the twilight sky, I felt a wave of contentment wash over me. The combination of theatre and nature, of art and quiet contemplation, was truly magical. Kingswood, with its gentle spirit and breathtaking surroundings, had become a favourite memory in my ever-growing list of pink-tutu-wearing travels.
Now, you might think that ballet is a serious business - and it is! - but at its core, it's about fun. It's about freedom, creativity and expression. And honestly, why shouldn’t everyone enjoy the joy of a tutu, a pirouette, and the satisfaction of achieving a graceful leap? That's why, my dear friends, I encourage you to wear a pink tutu today, just for fun!
And remember, it's never too late to try ballet. Even if it’s just one lesson to start, or a casual trip to your local ballet performance. Go on, unleash your inner ballerina. Life is too short to stay earthbound, my lovely readers.
Love,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
