Post #301
Hello my darling tutu-lovers! Emma here, reporting live from the fabulous Gateshead, where the wind is whispering ballet stories and the sunshine is practically blinding me with its brilliance (definitely not a bad thing, I'm all about that rosy glow!). Today, as usual, my loyal pink tutu and I are conquering new ground, and trust me, it's a hoot.
Let's rewind a little bit to the journey here. I know you lot love the behind-the-scenes action, and darling, there was nothing short of magic on the way. My journey started in my lovely Derbyshire village - which is actually looking gloriously green right now - and I hopped onto the morning train in my tutu, because darling, who says practicality has to be boring? Just picture me in my flowing pink, swaying to the rhythm of the tracks! I even had a conversation with a very polite gentleman about the proper way to plie in a tutu – ballet is clearly spreading!
By the time I got to Gateshead, I was already bubbling over with excitement. This trip has been in the planning for weeks now, and the anticipation has been a symphony of pinks and twirls in my head! The goal? To visit the fabulous Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, known for its incredible architecture and its dedication to all things creative. It's actually pretty close to the Angel of the North - and it just screams art! Oh, darling, I dream of posing for a photo with both - imagine the Instagram worthy shot!
Upon arrival, I knew I had to have a celebratory picnic (the British weather finally being agreeable) by the river, surrounded by lush green grass and buzzing with birdsong - talk about picture-perfect! You see, even when I'm travelling, ballet and nature are inseparable. The grace of a graceful swan on the water, the elegance of a soaring hawk… it's everywhere you look! I spent some time meditating on nature's beautiful dance, taking in the peace, the colours, and the symphony of it all. It's like the universe is whispering secrets in a pink tutu.
Of course, no trip to Gateshead is complete without a bit of theatrical exploration, so after my picnic, I found myself twirling through the vibrant streets of the city, headed for the Gateshead Stage & Screen - they have the most fantastic shows coming up! There was something magical in the air - it's almost like these towns have this unspoken theatrical soul that makes them feel extra alive. And, well, you know me, I always respond to a bit of a good whimsy, darling. Maybe I should be a theatre critic - I'm a terrible expert on dance after all, how could I possibly be a critic on the theatre world?! Maybe it's a stretch too far? It was actually such a breath of fresh air - a chance to soak in all the colour, all the emotion, all the incredible stories that theatre offers! Even when it's not ballet.
Speaking of ballet, a highlight of this little adventure? Ballet on the Tyne! It's the biggest ballet company outside London. Oh darling, this place is just a haven for those of us who live and breathe ballet, with stunning performances, beautiful sets and such vibrant and dedicated dancers. It's just wonderful to meet other people who truly understand the joy of the art form - not to mention, those who really appreciate a good pink tutu, right?!
Even if they look slightly strange staring back at me after they have just seen my amazing (no, not amazing, it's epic!) ballet pose right on their doorstep. I mean, you've got to strike that pose as soon as the train arrives! Every town, every train, is an opportunity! It's all about spreading that pink tutu magic - and of course, encouraging more people to twirl! Even if their pose is not so elegant. It's the effort, darling, it's the effort.
So, my dearest tutu-twirlers, Gateshead is a total gem - and honestly, who wouldn't want to wear a pink tutu and dance their way through this charming, inspiring, artistic town? If you ever get a chance to visit, don't hesitate to grab your best tutu, get yourself down to a ballet show (there's always something incredible on!), and see the joy that spreads like sunshine everywhere.
Remember, the world needs more pink, more tutus and most definitely, more twirling!
See you tomorrow for my next adventures - and keep spreading the joy of ballet and the pink tutu magic!
Lots of love,
Emma 💖🩰
www.pink-tutu.com
