Hello lovelies! Emma here, back with another adventure, this time taking me all the way to the beautiful, historic city of Gloucester! This week has been jam-packed with ballet bliss and a bit of a wild side too, and I just had to share it all with you.
This morning, as usual, I felt the call of the barre. But instead of my usual studio, I was lucky enough to be at the glorious Everyman Theatre in Gloucester. A quick look at my timetable revealed an absolute treasure - a contemporary ballet workshop focusing on the power of movement, with the emphasis on finding your own voice within the strict and demanding art form of ballet. How thrilling! I felt so energised and inspired, like a swan dipping its graceful toes into a brand new lake!
Gloucester is truly a sight to behold. As a girl who lives for all things grand and romantic, it immediately captured my heart with its charming cobblestone streets and beautiful timbered houses. Even better, I'd taken the train journey, which for me is like a personal journey of imagination. With a book in my lap and a hot cup of tea by my side, I slipped into another world. The world of this magical city where history whispers through every alleyway, every stone.
And speaking of the magic, the heart of the city seemed to pulse with something vibrant and wild. After all my ballet explorations, I felt compelled to delve into Gloucester's natural side. A walk through the delightful Gloucester Docks brought me to the breathtaking Gloucester Docks Nature Reserve. Now, as much as I love pink tutus and dazzling sequins, I do have a real soft spot for nature's artistry. There, surrounded by a riot of vibrant wildflowers, lush greenery, and the calming murmur of water, I felt soothed and invigorated.
I was greeted by the cutest flock of ducks, paddling around like fluffy, yellow ballet dancers in their own aquatic stage! As I wandered through the serene paths, the soft rustling of leaves and the joyful chirps of birds seemed like a gentle symphony. This natural ballet captivated my senses, reminding me of the graceful movement in my own form.
Now, you all know I love to be a little unconventional with my outfits. This time I was channeling a bit of that nature magic in a special, bespoke pink tutu! Imagine it, a stunning shade of soft rose pink, layered with delicate, feather-light tulle, swirling in the wind as I skipped through the meadows. And yes, it was a touch impractical, with me occasionally needing to do some twirling with one hand holding onto a branch, but hey, sometimes life demands a little creativity, right? And what a sight I must have been, a dancing fairy amongst the wildflowers. Honestly, it was a fairytale come to life!
To celebrate this magical day, I tucked into a delicious cream tea in one of Gloucester's charming cafés. Honestly, the perfect fuel for a busy ballerina like myself. Scones, clotted cream, jam...what more could a girl ask for?
Later, in a charming little bookshop, I stumbled across the most exquisite, beautifully bound book filled with vintage ballet photographs. As I flipped through the pages, lost in the beauty of dancers in motion, I was reminded that the art of ballet, its history, and its grace, are just as essential today as they were a hundred years ago.
The evening brought with it a real treat - an immersive ballet show. Forget your ordinary ballet theater experience, this one was full of vibrant colors, dramatic lighting, and an incredible storytelling, woven beautifully into the language of movement. A fusion of contemporary and traditional ballet techniques, it truly enthralled me from start to finish.
My heart is brimming with the memories of this wonderful weekend. I can’t help but reflect on my own little mission - spreading the joy of pink tutus and ballet everywhere I go! Every day, I’m inspired by those who bravely step outside their comfort zone and embrace their love for dance, no matter what age, shape, or form. And wouldn’t it be delightful if everyone, everywhere, dared to twirl in a pink tutu? It's an image that fills me with pure joy!
As I’m boarding my train home, my pink tutu safely packed in its travel bag, I’m filled with a profound sense of peace and contentment. Gloucester, with its charm, its history, and its natural beauty, has captured my imagination, and will always have a special place in my heart.
Until next time, stay twirling and never be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina, darling!
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
