Oh, darling readers! It's your favourite tutu-clad adventurer, Emma, checking in from the charming town of Mitcham! I'm in the midst of a whirlwind trip, but who needs sleep when there's such incredible dancing to be had?
This week, I embarked on a rather unconventional journey, trading in my trusty motorbike (it’s still getting fixed, I promise!) for a more…equestrian method of transport. Picture it: me, resplendent in a custom-made feather tutu (the shade of pink, darling, is to die for!), perched on a magnificent chestnut mare named Poppy. We set off through the Derbyshire countryside, the wind whipping through my hair as Poppy’s hooves thundered along the dusty trails. Honestly, you’d think we were in a ballet, with the way Poppy moved - it was utterly magical.
After a truly epic journey (complete with a delightful encounter with a family of badgers - those little fellas are so sweet!), we arrived in Mitcham. This charming town, nestled just outside of London, has such a beautiful energy – perfect for a little ballet escapades.
The Mitcham Theatre was our first port of call, a jewel of a venue, complete with exquisite crimson velvet seats and breathtaking chandeliers. Oh, and it's got an incredible history too! It seems this place hosted a legendary ballet performance back in the Victorian era, featuring an entire company of ballerinas dressed in feathers. Talk about a fitting welcome for my feather tutu!
My feather tutu definitely attracted some curious looks as I ventured out into Mitcham. But hey, a little flamboyance is just the right spice to make life interesting, don’t you think?
Speaking of spice, let me tell you, this Mitcham curry house just blew me away. It's tucked away on a quaint little cobbled street and the food, darling, it's a culinary symphony! You haven’t experienced true joy until you’ve tasted their lamb vindaloo (just add a touch of pink Himalayan salt – it makes all the difference, believe me!).
While Mitcham certainly has a place in my heart for its incredible food and theatre, my real mission was to experience a different kind of performance: a street ballet spectacle right on the cobblestone streets of the town centre. The energy was simply electric as local dancers and street artists weaved tales through movement and mime. And, to add to the spectacle, I couldn't resist the urge to join in! I found myself swirling amongst the crowd, my feather tutu creating a flurry of pink around me. Let’s just say, I brought a touch of Derbyshire elegance to Mitcham.
In fact, my adventures in Mitcham sparked a most profound idea - a way to spread the joy of ballet far and wide! I'm talking about launching a new kind of ballet class, a class inspired by the spontaneity of street performance. We'll meet on Saturday mornings in Mitcham, and learn routines that are free, playful, and infused with a touch of that irresistible street charm. And of course, everyone’s welcome, even if you’ve never worn a tutu before. (Hint, hint – a feather tutu, just like mine, would be the perfect costume for your first class!).
I can't help but think that ballet should be accessible to everyone, a way to move your body, explore your emotions, and connect with others. Let's make Mitcham a haven for dance, where tutus flutter and joy dances in the streets!
Until next time, my darling readers, keep dancing your hearts out, spread the love for tutus (and pink, naturally), and stay tuned for updates on the launch of our new ballet class!
Emma, signing out – from Mitcham with a feather in my cap (and a feather tutu around my waist, obviously!).
P.S. If you're visiting Mitcham and feeling a little bit adventurous, don't forget to pay a visit to the Mitcham Lido! It’s a beautiful open-air swimming pool with a most delightful retro vibe. Just remember to pack your swimwear! I may have tried to dance a little ballet at the Lido (who can resist a chance to showcase the feather tutu?), but let’s just say, the staff wasn't very enthusiastic about the prospect. (Shhh, it’s a secret!).
