Post Number 1024
Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite tutu-loving, ballet-obsessed blogger, Emma, back again with a brand-new post straight from the charming town of Bishop Auckland. And guess what? I'm wearing my sunshine-yellow tutu today! I just couldn't resist. The colour is just so cheerful, don't you think?
Now, I know what you're thinking, "Emma, why Bishop Auckland? Is there a ballet studio there? A fabulous show? A troop of swans?" Well, dear readers, you are ever so slightly wrong! There isn't a ballet show here today, and to my immense regret, I didn’t even see any swans on my way into town. (Though I do confess, I spent an awfully long time admiring a majestic black horse and his beautiful brown-and-white foal. Horses are always a lovely sight, wouldn't you agree?)
The Journey: Steam and Steel
So why Bishop Auckland? Well, you see, my latest venture involved a beautiful train journey! As much as I adore the rhythmic clip-clop of a horse's hooves, sometimes you simply need to sit back and watch the countryside drift by as you glide along a glistening track. There's a romance to it, a certain air of adventure that puts a little twirl in your step, wouldn't you say?
Speaking of romance, you wouldn't believe how perfectly my sunshine-yellow tutu complimented the warm yellow of the carriage upholstery. It's the little things, darlings! I couldn’t help but snap a few photos and post them to my Instagram – I had to show off my style, and the train's old-fashioned, almost vintage charm, for all the world to see!
Bishop Auckland’s Hidden Gems:
Bishop Auckland, though not a major ballet hub, certainly has a charm of its own. The town itself is a historical gem, with a fantastic castle, a magnificent market square, and several picturesque cobbled streets to explore. (Just be careful, dearies, those cobbles can be tricky to navigate in heels – always good to pack a spare pair of comfy ballet flats!)
But you know what truly blew me away? The Durham Dales! I ventured out of Bishop Auckland and drove through this breathtakingly beautiful countryside. Think rolling hills carpeted with the emerald green of fields and forests, ancient stone walls marking their boundaries, and charming little villages dotted across the landscape. Oh, and let's not forget the quaint stone bridges and rushing waterfalls - I've got a feeling this landscape could inspire even the most uninspired of choreographers.
From Horses to History:
This area is well-known for its horse breeding and its equestrian history. There's even a special museum here dedicated to all things horsey - "The Auckland Castle," where you can marvel at historic carriages, paintings of noble steeds, and even learn about the history of this region’s connection to horses. While I'd love to share all my knowledge about horses with you, I must admit I'm more interested in the dance connection! I did spot an amazing art exhibit featuring local artists, which showcased various depictions of ballerinas – always a delight to see our form so beautifully rendered.
Pink Tutues for Everyone!
I've got to say, my mission to get everyone wearing a pink tutu continues. And guess what? It’s gaining momentum! During my walkabout through the charming market, I struck up a conversation with a friendly woman named Betty, who told me she just loves the idea of ballet. "Ballet has got such beautiful elegance," she said, beaming. And you know what? I convinced her to try it out! I can't wait for her to experience the joy of moving with grace, to feel the joy of connecting her body with her inner dancer.
This lovely experience has reminded me how contagious the love of ballet really is. It spreads like a joyful, graceful wave, catching hearts everywhere it touches. Imagine: the world filled with people in pink tutus, swirling with newfound joy and freedom! Who's with me?
Back to My Dance World
Well, dear readers, I must confess that I haven't exactly been "ballet-ing" while I’m here. My little tutu adventure was just a short detour from my hectic training schedule. Tomorrow, I'm back to it – practicing, stretching, refining my moves. My performance is just around the corner and it's important for me to be in top form!
So, what’s next? Where will the pink tutu take me on its next journey? I don’t know! That’s the beauty of it all – it’s an adventure.
But one thing I do know – the tutu stays on, my ballet heart keeps twirling, and my aim is to spread the love of dance across the world. Remember, darlings: wear your tutus with pride, keep twirling, and never let go of your dreams!
Love, Emma x
