Post Number 1005: April 4th, 1999
Helloooo, darlings! It's Emma here, writing to you from the gorgeous town of Pont-y-pool! I arrived here this morning on the most charming little train journey ā you know I can't resist a good old-fashioned steam train ride!
Itās not every day a ballerina finds herself in the beautiful Welsh countryside, but this adventure has been on my bucket list for ages. My dear friend, Millie, suggested it after a particularly enthralling performance of "Giselle" last month at the Royal Opera House. She knew how much I adored all things "Swan Lake" and "Sleeping Beauty", but even she couldn't have anticipated the enchanting surprise that awaited me in this enchanting little town.
You see, dear readers, Pont-y-pool has a special place in my heart (and on my blog). This quaint little Welsh gem boasts the most exquisite collection of vintage tutus I have ever seen. The entire town seems to pulsate with a delicate, rosy-hued energy, the colours of a ballerinaās dreams, if you will!
So, I thought it would be only fitting that I dedicate my latest post to the one true love of my lifeā¦ the glorious tutu!
You can just imagine my delight upon discovering a tiny boutique nestled amongst the charming cobblestone streets called āThe Tutu Emporium.ā Oh, the wonder! The owner, Mrs. Davies, is a delightful lady who reminds me of the grand dame in the "Nutcracker" with her silvery curls and a twinkle in her eyes. She has a passion for ballet, just like me, but most importantly, she adores tutus just as much!
Upon entering the shop, I was greeted with the softest melodies of Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" as I was guided to a private room. And there it wasā¦ a dream-like symphony of tulle, ribbons and lace! Imagine hundreds upon hundreds of exquisite tutus hanging like exquisite swans in the soft light, each with their own unique personality. It was as if I'd stumbled into the wardrobe of my wildest ballerina dreams!
Gymnastics Glamour
Today's post is particularly special, however, because of a delightful surprise Mrs. Davies presented me with. Amongst all the stunning traditional tutus, she unveiled a hidden gem: a gymnastic tutu! Oh, the romance! You see, dear readers, even though ballet holds a special place in my heart, my own personal style leans more towards a daring, free-spirited approach to life!
So you can imagine my excitement at the discovery! This vibrant, emerald-green tutu was made for twirling and leaping, perfect for a dancer who enjoys a good old-fashioned gymnastic roll. This dazzling, sparkly creation has such an uplifting energy to it - truly a ballet gem of a lifetime. I knew instantly that I had to include it in my blog!
My friends have all heard the stories of my "tutu travel diaries", but I confess that nothing I've experienced has ever captured the beauty and unique style of Pont-y-pool. I must say, dear readers, itās the perfect combination of romance and adventure. I may be biased as a dancer, but I believe every lady needs a tutu in their life, and Mrs. Daviesā collection would surely capture any ballet lover's heart!
Speaking of ballet and all things beautiful, letās not forget that this beautiful, little town has a whole host of delights to offer besides exquisite tutus!
A Touch of the Wild
After my encounter with Mrs. Davies' enchanting shop, I decided to wander the charming streets of Pont-y-pool in search of some light refreshments and a place to reflect upon the day's wonders. I came across a most charming tea room that serves the best Welsh cakes! As I sipped my pink tea, a charming, fluffy dog joined me at my table. Oh, youāve got to hear the most beautiful little story! It turned out this adorable little creature had a special role to play.
The shop owner explained to me that the pup is the beloved mascot of a local sanctuary dedicated to rescuing adorable owls. And the sanctuary just happened to be on a charming hilltop nearby. Naturally, being the animal lover that I am, I had to pay them a visit.
Walking up the winding paths of the Welsh hillside, my senses were treated to a magnificent symphony of birdsong and wildflowers. It was a truly magical experience, like stepping into a scene from āFantasia,ā which we all know is my favourite Disney film.
Owl Watching with My Tutu!
Upon arrival, I was met by the kindest group of volunteers who work tirelessly to protect these majestic creatures. It turned out they had quite a collection of adorable owls and, to my delight, were even holding a "Tutomania" owl party next month! The sanctuary's mission is to help everyone discover their inner ballerina. Yes, you read that correctly! Their idea was to give owls tutus and have a grand twirling and ballet competition! They even planned a fashion show showcasing vintage and modern tutus, showcasing owls in tutus! You've got to see the photos on their website, you won't believe how gorgeous it was!
Naturally, I had to participate! As soon as I donned my new emerald gymnastic tutu, I couldn't resist teaching the owls a few ballet moves. And let me tell you, they were remarkably talented. Even though they were shy at first, once they realised I wasnāt there to catch them (more like twirl with them!), they were so excited! To the surprise of the volunteers, my new gymnastic tutu and my flamboyant twirling really captivated these wild creatures. To be quite honest, I believe the owls found my flamboyant style completely inspiring. I am a ballet teacher at heart!
Now I don't know about you dear readers, but it warmed my heart so much to see owls rocking tutus. I realised that no matter where in the world you travel, or how many incredible, inspiring encounters you have along the way, a touch of whimsy and colour can transform a moment into something extraordinary. A vibrant tutu can open new possibilities, whether you're twirling in a ballroom or on a Welsh hillside!
This trip to Pont-y-pool has been an unforgettable adventure, reminding me why a dancer's life is so precious. I must confess that I am already dreaming of my next pink-tutu-themed trip, this time, perhaps to Edinburgh or even Paris! We all need a bit of "tutu-time" in our lives, dear readers. Donāt forget: You never know what incredible moments and friendships await!
Until next time, stay fabulous! Don't forget to share your "pink-tutu" adventures on my social media channels: #PinkTutuAdventures
With love, Emma.
