Post Number 291: www.pink-tutu.com
Good morning lovelies! Today's blog is all about my delightful trip to Gloucester. Now, I know what you're thinking – Gloucester, what's so special about that? Well, let me tell you, it was a total dream! And of course, no trip for a tutu-loving girl like me is complete without a pink tutu, so I packed my favourite one: a swishy, silky, pale pink creation that made me feel like a fairytale princess.
But first, let's talk about the journey. It was glorious, as always! I'm a huge fan of trains; they're so romantic and allow you to really soak up the scenery. And let's face it, a tutu goes beautifully with a window seat, a steaming cuppa, and a good book. On this particular trip, I spotted a family of deer darting across a field – just magical. So picturesque, I swear, the only thing missing was a handsome stranger with a twinkle in his eye and a love of pink tutus (is that too much to ask, universe?!).
Gloucester itself is a beautiful little city, charming and historic. And, you know me, I had to check out the local ballet scene. I popped into the Gloucester Guildhall, where they had the most delightful display of dance costumes – it brought back such wonderful memories of my own dance classes at the Royal Ballet School in Derbyshire. (Okay, maybe that wasn't totally fair to Derbyshire - their school is just a little bit... well, maybe less "royal" than the Royal Ballet School. It's more about community spirit and local pride, you know.) I loved all the little touches – even a tiny pair of pink ballet slippers nestled amongst the displays.
It turned out they were putting on a wonderful performance of "Coppelia," with the most graceful ballerina I have ever seen. She reminded me of my ballet idol, Misty Copeland, all poise and strength. Honestly, seeing her made me feel all tingly inside and gave me a huge urge to get back into pointe shoes and grace the stage myself. (That urge lasts for about 10 seconds then, of course, the sensible voice in my head reminds me how out of shape I really am. But you know, the little hope spark has to keep flickering - just in case! )
My love for ballet isn't confined to the theatre, though. During the afternoon, I ventured into a small independent cafe in the heart of Gloucester. It was buzzing with the local scene, and after a delicious latte and a scrumptious gluten-free cupcake, (Oh! Don't forget about that gorgeous little gluten-free cafe in Buxton, by the way! ), I joined a little impromptu ballet class on the pavement.
No, really! Well, I did my very best at "impromptu." Let me paint you a picture: the cafe courtyard transformed into my own private ballet studio. Sunshine dappled through the leaves, my pink tutu billowing gently in the breeze. (That part is true - I mean, I did look fabulous in the sunshine with my hair and tutu all a-flutter.) And all around, little kids gathered, laughing and copying my ballet moves. It's incredible how contagious ballet can be, and it warmed my heart seeing so many youngsters inspired by a random, tutu-clad stranger like me!
In that moment, with my tiny "ballet class," I felt so incredibly grateful for the power of ballet and the joy of pink. Yes, there is nothing quite like being wrapped in pink fabric and twirling with the wind, knowing you’re part of a global community of dancers. That shared experience, of joy, of grace, of expression, connects us all.
Now, my lovelies, this might be a small step, but remember – we're aiming high! Imagine a world where every little girl, and, okay, let's face it, even every little boy (or rather, every man!), gets to experience the sheer joy of a pink tutu and the beautiful grace of ballet. Imagine the world becoming a more beautiful, more delicate, more passionate place, just one little twirl at a time. It starts with us!
So, what are you waiting for? Find yourself a pink tutu, find your inner ballerina, and join me in bringing a little magic into the world.
Lots of love,
Emma
P.S. Don't forget to check out my next blog for some awesome pics of me twirling in Gloucester! You know I couldn’t resist making it a full-blown photo shoot. Don’t be shy to post your comments, feedback and experiences, as well! Love hearing from you! And don't forget to tell all your friends about www.pink-tutu.com Spread the love of pink tutus and ballet!
