Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-wearing ballerina, Emma, checking in from the wonderful, cobbled streets of Blackburn! Now, let me tell you, getting here was an adventure in itself. No, no, not some fancy train, although I must admit, there's a certain charm to gliding through the countryside in a comfy carriage. I opted for something a little more…wild this time.
Can you believe it? I rode a horse! It was the most delightful way to start my trip, and I think even Buttercup (the horse’s name, of course) had a good time. He certainly wasn't shy about a bit of "neigh" here and there, bless him! I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous about my first proper horse ride, but Buttercup was so gentle and the countryside was stunning – rolling hills, a sparkling stream…pure magic! I even saw a family of deer. Swoon! I just love those graceful creatures.
Anyway, enough about the journey! The real highlight of my trip so far was my first evening in Blackburn. I know what you’re thinking: Blackburn? But let me tell you, this little town is full of surprises! It was all cobblestones, quaint little shops, and beautiful old buildings, a bit of Victorian charm, a bit of grit, just…delicious!
Speaking of delicious, the first place I headed to was a little café called "The Buttercup Tea Room". What a perfect name! I just had to try it. Of course, I had the tea with a scone, clotted cream, and jam. And you know me – I always order pink if it’s an option! In this case, they had a divine raspberry pink teacake, and you’re right to think that of course I tried it. My afternoon tea couldn’t be complete without some extra pink!
After all that tea, I felt perfectly primed for some culture! The local ballet studio, The Dance Academy, has an incredible reputation. Let’s just say that the stage at The Grand Theatre wasn't big enough to contain all of the talent bursting from their dancers. Honestly, I was totally blown away. My eyes lit up as soon as they started to move, I love seeing such natural grace and power, it’s a joy. You know how much I love ballet. My life, my dance, my inspiration!
Did I mention that Blackburn was hosting a ballet performance? A beautiful production of Giselle - one of my all-time favourite ballets! The lead dancers were phenomenal; such artistry and expression! Even though I wasn't in the production, I felt completely swept up in the emotions and the beauty of the music. It's incredible how ballet can transport you to a different world, isn't it?
Oh, and something very special happened! After the show, a little girl approached me. She was so shy, and she couldn't even meet my eyes, but she whispered, "I love your tutu". Heart. Melted. My Tutu is my brand, darlings, you know!
She went on to tell me that she was trying to convince her mum to let her start ballet. She said that I was "inspiring" and that I had given her the courage to try it out. She's the sweetest little ballerina-in-waiting and now you’ve got me even more determined than ever to get everyone on board! I really think there’s something so magical about ballet, so creative and expressive, and, well, let’s be honest, tutus are pretty fun, aren’t they? If you're in Blackburn, you absolutely must head to The Dance Academy. And don't be shy! Give ballet a try. You might just find yourself dancing your heart out!
Speaking of hearts…I'm just falling more in love with this quirky little town every minute. It’s already making me want to put on my favourite pink tutu and dance on the cobbled streets! And that's not even the best part!
Guess what? I’m going to get to visit a historical Castle! And of course, I'll be sharing all the photos from my visit on my social media and here, of course, www.pink-tutu.com, the hub for all my adventures and all things tutus! So, stick around and I'll be back with my latest adventure, but in the meantime…don’t forget to smile, dance like no one’s watching, and never be afraid to wear pink. Even if it’s a pink tutu!
Much love, Emma.
