Hey loves! It's Emma here, your pink-loving, tutu-obsessed, ballet-mad blogger, back from a whirlwind trip to Edgware. Now, I know what you're thinking - Edgware? That's not exactly a hotspot on the Parisian ballet circuit, is it? But, my darlings, you have to trust me on this one. It was utterly divine!
I know, I know, travelling by train is so "vintage" for a girl like me. But something about those old carriages, the rumble of the wheels, and the chatter of fellow passengers just gets my creative juices flowing! Plus, ahem, a certain someone decided I wasn't allowed on his private plane for being "too loud in my pink tutu" - what a drama queen. (Yes, that is me in my very fabulous new red tutu, purchased in the cutest boutique in Derbyshire just before I left!).
Anyways, back to Edgware! Now, you might not think it, but this charming town (with a definite suburban feel) had some surprising ballet treats! First off, the gorgeous Edgwarebury Park! I spent the afternoon strolling under the ancient oaks, letting my imagination soar (literally, like a prima ballerina!) and, believe me, there were some impressive photo opportunities! I can’t wait for you lot to see those pictures, especially my signature pink tutu pose beneath the old bandstand. Swooooon
After a little tea and cake in the delightful Garden Room Cafe, it was time for the pièce de résistance - the Edgware Ballet School! It’s an unassuming building, nestled amidst shops and takeaways, but the inside? Pure magic. These kids, they are incredible. My inner teacher practically burst out. Oh, the corrections, the enthusiasm, the passion! My heart literally swelled. I swear I could almost hear Tchaikovsky ringing out in the halls!
Of course, I took every opportunity to spread the tutu-love, encouraging everyone I met to try ballet, even my reluctant new acquaintance, a man who owned a wonderful (but, alas, rather boringly grey) antique shop. It was his gran who had inspired him to be the amazing (and, apparently, wealthy) antique connoisseur he is. He really appreciated hearing about my "Pink Tutu Foundation" that supports free dance classes for children (he's sponsoring me with a rare Tiffany & Co. lamp! Imagine a Pink Tutu Ball with a Tiffany lamp on the table!).
Speaking of children, those Edgware students took me for lunch! Now, I usually love the refined restaurants you find in London's posher spots. But this? This was something else! It was an authentic Thai restaurant that served this incredible sticky rice with chicken - honestly, it made my tutu dance. My tutu has been through some serious travel lately! I know you lot want to try this Thai place if you ever find yourselves in Edgware. Sizzling good.
And of course, what's a trip to Edgware without some wildlife appreciation, right? The nearby Bentley Priory was teeming with nature and I actually caught a fleeting glimpse of a (thank goodness) very friendly deer - I am all for wildlife not being in pink tutus! However, the deer looked awfully sombre , maybe I should set him up with my pink tutu?
Then, before I knew it, I was back on the train. So long, Edgware! Thank you for being the perfect ballet escape for a girl like me, just a short jaunt from the city bustle, offering something special. I'm leaving my signature pink feather boa in your local park (because I left my black feather boa in Derbyshire! Oh my, you think I have issues!) for some happy accidents and creative inspiration for anyone who needs it. Remember, ladies and gentlemen, with a little imagination, and the right outfit, there's magic in every corner, even Edgware!
Remember to follow me at www.pink-tutu.com - there's always a new adventure and plenty of tutus to be found. Till next time!
