Post Number: 329
Hello my darling tutu lovers! It's your girl Emma here, reporting live from the glorious city of Edmonton, Canada! It feels like a lifetime since I last graced these pages with my thoughts and, oh my, so much has happened since then! But let's not dwell on the past, let's talk about the present! 😉
Today I'm wearing a truly stunning, vintage-inspired tutu I found in a charming little boutique in Munich. Think soft blush pink layers, cascading with a touch of glittering silver embellishment that catches the light like a thousand tiny stars. 💫 I just know it would make the very lovely swan in Swan Lake blush with envy. Honestly, who doesn't love a touch of whimsy with a dash of sparkle?
Anyway, enough about my wardrobe, let's talk about the reason for my visit. Edmonton is a haven for dance lovers like me! My adventure started with a spectacular show at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. They had this wonderful touring company from Berlin – a touch of old-world elegance amidst the modern hustle and bustle of the city. Their version of Giselle had me absolutely enthralled, not to mention in complete awe. Every leap and pirouette felt like a brushstroke on a canvas of sheer emotion, painted with breathtaking grace and passion. The ending left me utterly breathless! I'm telling you, I nearly shed a tear or two... (I won't go into detail! wink, wink).
Of course, no visit to a ballet-loving city would be complete without a visit to the ballet school! This one had a special vibe – friendly, warm, and full of passionate students with a wonderful, energetic, atmosphere. You could just feel the dedication and the love for ballet flowing in every corner. 🩰
Edmonton is quite a sight to see - a bustling mix of old-world charm and modern skyscrapers, all sprinkled with beautiful parks and gardens bursting with spring blossoms. They even have the most charming little café nestled in one of these gardens, with adorable little pastel pink tables where I enjoyed a delightful afternoon tea (with of course, a delicate slice of raspberry cake!) - it was positively perfect!
After my delightful afternoon tea I found a super sweet little horse drawn carriage that took me through the downtown district. They were all set up for an "experience" rather than just getting you from A to B! The horses, in their bright cherry red harness, pulled this magnificent carriage right along, as proud as punch and very aware of the smiles on all the tourists! I have to admit, I was giggling with delight! I couldn't stop thinking about a song we learned at ballet class... It was a real fairytale journey!
Later, on my way to my hotel, I saw a flock of majestic Canada geese gracing a small pond, and it made me realise how utterly amazing this part of the world truly is! It reminded me so much of Derbyshire. Do you know what? Edmonton actually made me miss the simple beauty of nature and wildlife. Derbyshire is a great place, although maybe I just like it because that's where I'm from! Who knows! Maybe one day I will get to dance in a tutu under the shadow of the beautiful Peak District mountains... that's what they call the hills here, if anyone is reading from further away! You just know, all those gorgeous sweeping, valleys, it's all perfect for ballet dancing. You can imagine all those magnificent ballerinas... right! Well, enough daydreaming.
On that note, let me finish by reminding you, my dears, that ballet isn't just about graceful pirouettes and beautiful costumes. It's about empowerment, confidence, joy, and above all, it's about finding your own unique way to express yourself through the language of movement. I’m absolutely certain that there is a ballerina hidden deep inside each and every one of you! I just know it! 💖
And, my fellow tutus lovers, if you happen to find yourself in the fabulous Edmonton, make sure you explore, have a spot of afternoon tea (raspberry cake is highly recommended!) and just have a wonderful, carefree time. If you want a really great afternoon, you have to go horse drawn carriage riding! 😉
Stay glamorous!
Emma. xoxo
