Hello, darlings! It's Emma, your favourite pink tutu-clad traveller, and I'm just back from a whirlwind trip to Ashton. Ashton, you ask? Well, it's a quaint little town in Greater Manchester, you know, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from my beloved Derbyshire! And let me tell you, it was a real treat to swap the green hills and sheep for a touch of urban charm!
This time, I opted for a rather adventurous journey. Forget those boring old buses or the predictable trains, no siree! I went horse-riding! (That’s right, I'm a proper girly-girl on horseback - watch out, Derbyshire! My steed was called Willow, and she was an absolute angel, even though she kept getting distracted by the squirrels! 😄) The air was fresh, the scenery beautiful, and the wind in my hair felt utterly magical. You really couldn't ask for a more elegant way to travel!
Anyway, back to Ashton. I'd been itching to check out the town's charming Ashton-under-Lyne market since I'd heard whispers of its hidden treasures. And let me tell you, this market is pure magic! Everything from handmade soaps to beautiful vintage clothes to delicious fresh produce, it's truly a delight! I picked up a stunning vintage brooch in a stunning, oh-so-Emma-esque shade of pink (naturally!) for my favourite ballet dress. You know, the one with the swirling floral print that just calls out for a dash of pink bling!
After a scrumptious lunch (and let's just say a few too many sausage rolls...they're just irresistible in market settings!) it was time to take on a ballet-related mission! My lovely cousin Charlotte lives in Ashton, and she promised me a magical day exploring the local ballet scene. She took me to a local dance studio for a quick (and sweaty!) class. Now, if you know me, you know that even with all my travelling, my ballet class routine never skips a beat! I just can't resist the elegance and discipline, not to mention the chance to really wear my favourite tutu with pride!
After the class, I treated myself to a much-deserved ice cream (pink, of course!) and we even found an open-air performance of "Romeo and Juliet" at the charming town park. I must confess, it was a little bit different from my usual dose of royal ballet productions, but it was so full of heart and passion. And the energy, the sheer joy, the movement - oh, how I loved it! I even had a bit of a giggle when Romeo did a little "turn" at one point - it was pure genius. 😂
Speaking of genius, the day wouldn't be complete without a trip to Ashton-under-Lyne's gorgeous library. Not just for its literary treasures, but for its incredible, grand Victorian architecture! I snapped a few photos of my own, of course, and spent an hour lost in the world of literature.
Of course, every trip needs a good story. And mine wouldn't be complete without a charming little incident. As I was wandering the charming market streets, I saw the cutest little hedgehog in the middle of the pathway. He was so tiny and prickly, and oh-so-adorable! I had to help him, of course, because how could a hedgehog in need possibly escape my caring eyes!
With a little bit of help (and maybe a few tutus strategically placed!), I managed to guide him to a safer corner, where he could relax in the warm evening sun. Of course, he gave me a cheeky little sniff before he disappeared - a tiny, furry thanks from my new friend!
Now, as the sun sets over Ashton and I prepare to head back to my Derbyshire haven, I’m struck by a simple truth: the magic of ballet (and of course, of pink tutus!) is not just confined to the big city stages or grand halls. It’s out there, in every charming town, every quaint village, every little corner of the world. The beauty and the grace of movement are for everyone to enjoy. Just take a moment, look around you, and find your own ballet inspiration, no matter where you are! And if you're feeling a little daring, perhaps you'll even join me in my pink tutu mission, to make ballet accessible and enjoyable for everyone!
Until next time, lovelies!
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
