Hello my gorgeous darlings! Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-loving ballet fanatic, writing to you from the glorious seaside town of Plymouth. The sea air is crisp, the sky is a vibrant blue, and I’m already planning my first ballet class in this lovely new location.
As you know, I'm a big believer in embracing the unexpected and seeing the world through rose-tinted… well, maybe pink-tinted glasses! This trip has been an adventure from the get-go. I boarded the train at Derby station with a suitcase overflowing with my trusty pink tutus (a girl can never have too many, can she?), and a heart full of anticipation. The journey, as always, was a joy – there’s something utterly romantic about gazing out the window at the rolling hills and picturesque villages as the train rattles along.
It was the journey itself, really, that I was enjoying. Arriving in Plymouth with a light drizzle hitting the window, I felt a frisson of excitement run through me. I popped on my favourite bright pink tutu, with its frilly layers and sequined trim (and did I mention how FAB the pink is? ), and headed out to explore the bustling waterfront.
Plymouth is a truly delightful place! The historic Barbican area is teeming with quirky shops and bustling cafes, with the scent of fresh seafood wafting through the air. I stopped to admire the stunning Plymouth Hoe, a wide open green space overlooking the harbour, perfect for a tutu twirl, I thought to myself, but that'll have to wait for later! The Hoe also had this amazing view of the Royal Citadel, a fortress that just screamed "ballet history." Oh how I dream of finding some connection with ballet's past! I'm hoping for a clue as to why Plymouth doesn't have any theatres offering ballet! There’s clearly a whole ballet audience just waiting to be unlocked! I'm ready for the challenge. I just need to know where to start.
I have already found the most delightful shop filled with an abundance of pastel-coloured ballet shoes. It was just begging to be filled with all things pink and fluffy. A pink Tutu Boutique! I need to come back later, after a cup of tea, for another, longer look!
There’s so much history in Plymouth – I could wander for hours just soaking it all up. But this girl's got a ballet class to attend! The studio I found online is in a converted warehouse with exposed brickwork – perfect for showcasing the flowing lines of my dance movements, and what could be a more gorgeous backdrop for photos of my tutu, especially when the sunlight is coming through the tall warehouse windows, the pink really pops. I can't wait to twirl under those beams. It's going to be fab!
Speaking of fab, I'm really getting into this whole ballet street performance thing. There’s such a raw energy and an instant connection with the audience. You just fling yourself out there, with all your heart, and watch as people's eyes light up with amazement. It makes me want to break out into a grand jeté right now in this sunny park and perform for everyone enjoying the crisp air, but my aching muscles tell me to be patient. There's no way I'm letting those few aches spoil the ballet journey ahead!
I have already discovered a whole world of wildlife here in Plymouth – playful seals basking on the rocks, majestic swans gliding across the water, and seagulls gracefully... err… squawking on the harborside! (Just think, those graceful, gliding birds... that's me! except I wear pink!). My inner ballerina finds such beauty and inspiration in these creatures.
One of the things I love about travelling is the opportunity to try different foods. Today, I discovered the most delectable crab sandwiches in a little seaside cafe, and I can't resist trying out a Cornish pasty. It’s such a joy to be immersed in the local culture and learn about new and exciting culinary experiences.
Oh! I almost forgot to mention the absolute highlight of my day - the sunset over the water was simply breathtaking! The colours of the sky blended seamlessly into the ripples of the ocean. It’s like a painting by Turner. In fact, I'm seriously considering doing some sketching tonight to try and capture that feeling! Maybe in shades of pink, of course...
Of course, my favourite way to end the day is with a spot of ballet, watching the dancers as they gracefully move across the stage. I'm planning to catch a performance of Swan Lake this weekend, and I can't wait to get all dressed up in my most elegant pink tutu – there’s just nothing better than the feeling of twirling under the stage lights!
As the day fades, and the stars begin to twinkle, I reflect on the sheer joy and beauty that Plymouth has already given me. I feel blessed to be living my life with such passion, dancing, and of course, spreading the pink tutu love to every corner of the world. Don’t forget, you can join me on my journey at www.pink-tutu.com – share your own pink tutu adventures and let’s make this world a more vibrant and beautiful place, one twirl at a time!
Lots of love,
Emma xoxo 💖🩰
