Post 706 | June 9th, 1998
Hello darlings! Emma here, bringing you another dose of pink tutu joy straight from the heart of the West Midlands, specifically, the charming neighbourhood of Small Heath. Oh, I’m already dreaming of a world where everyone rocks a pink tutu! Can you imagine? 🤩
I journeyed here via the most delightful way possible: a steam train! The rhythmic clickety-clack of the wheels on the tracks and the billowing steam just set the mood perfectly for my upcoming ballet adventure. I’m all about the whimsical side of travel, you know, not just a quick bus or a crammed tube!
Speaking of whimsical, my favourite shade of pink just makes me feel like a princess. It's almost magical, you know? This gorgeous cerise pink leotard I've got on? It's perfect for pirouette practice! Imagine it with a billowing, fluffy tulle skirt... absolute heaven! 💖
But today’s journey isn't all about me! This beautiful town, Small Heath, is buzzing with history. It's the kind of place where cobbled streets lead to hidden gems, and every corner seems to whisper stories of days gone by. You know what I mean? It's absolutely divine for exploring.
This trip’s all about discovering the world of dance through the eyes of a seasoned ballet dancer. (And trust me, my eyes have seen it all, from the breathtaking grandeur of the Royal Opera House to the charm of local community halls, each performance has its own magic.) So, imagine my delight when I stumbled upon The Old Rep, a theatre that's been enchanting audiences for over a century!
Honestly, just stepping inside felt like I’d been transported back in time. The worn velvet seats, the ornate plasterwork on the ceiling, the stage bathed in an ethereal golden glow… I can just imagine the applause of countless performances, the whispers of excited anticipation, the joyful sighs after a magnificent dance routine! It’s the kind of theatre that breathes history into every moment, making even a cuppa seem special.
Speaking of the stage, I can't tell you how excited I am to catch the "Alice in Wonderland" ballet later! Can you imagine? All those iconic scenes, the magical world, the incredible costumes and choreography? My inner child is already doing the 'happy dance' - well, my entire being is, really! 😂
Of course, the trip wouldn't be complete without a little ballet class. I always love trying out different styles and classes. Today, I joined a beautiful ballet studio that felt just like a home for graceful souls. We swished through barre exercises, took to the center for some gorgeous work on our pirouettes and grand jetés, and ended with a joyful stretch session. What a perfect day!
And, before I get too carried away, let's talk about nature. The beauty of Small Heath lies not only in its historic charm but also in its natural spaces. I took a delightful walk along a nearby canal path, my pink tutu twirling along as I breathed in the fresh air. It’s so calming to listen to the gentle rippling of the water, and watch the water birds flitting about – ducks and swans, and even a few wild geese. Oh, it's the simple things, really, that bring a smile to my face. It was so enchanting, and I actually saw a little kingfisher swoop down for a quick swim! My favourite bird!
Later on, we’ll enjoy a traditional pub lunch, a quaint affair filled with warm lighting, hearty pies, and good conversation – a lovely change of pace after all that dance and wonder.
As always, I leave you with a message of hope: dance on! It doesn’t matter if you're a seasoned professional like myself or a complete beginner, embrace the magic of movement!
Remember, everyone has their own special way to shine, and when it comes to dance, all you need is a bit of passion and a dash of pink, even if it's just in your imagination.
Stay beautiful and dance your hearts out!
Until tomorrow,
Emma xx
P.S. Don’t forget to pop over to www.pink-tutu.com to see more photos from my day in Small Heath! And, be sure to tell me about your own ballet adventures in the comments!
