Hello my darlings! It's Emma here, back with another pink-tastic update from the world of twirling and tutus. As the new year unfolds, my dance-loving heart is overflowing with excitement. And what better way to kick things off than with a jaunty train journey up north, my trusty pink suitcase overflowing with a bevy of shimmering tutus, ready to grace the cobbled streets of Consett!
Consett, you say? Now, I know some of you may be scratching your heads. This little town in County Durham might not be as famed for its ballet scene as say, Covent Garden, but let me tell you, there's a certain charm in exploring hidden gems! I'm a firm believer that dance, and beauty, can be found in every nook and cranny, even in the heart of industrial England.
The train journey was as delightful as always. There's something about gazing at the changing landscape through the window, the gentle rocking of the carriage, the quiet chatter of fellow passengers. I'd imagine even the most grumpy businessman would find it impossible not to smile at a glimpse of a pink tutu peeking out of my bag! And to top it off, I found a little coffee shop just outside my hotel window that serves the most adorable pink lattes, decorated with swirls of caramel - simply perfect for a ballet blogger on the go!
Speaking of coffee, I've got to share my secret weapon for conquering a long train journey. It's not about caffeine, though that certainly helps! It's all about keeping that ballerina spirit alive, even when your feet aren't quite reaching the floor. You guessed it - stretching! Tucked into a quiet corner, I'd squeeze in a little plié here, a relevé there. And when the journey's almost done, there's no better feeling than feeling my muscles limbered and my energy levels soaring.
Now, on to the purpose of my visit! Consett, as it turns out, is home to the most remarkable little ballet school I've ever encountered - "Dance with Sparkle". Imagine a converted Victorian building, filled with sunshine, laughter, and the soft thud of dancing shoes. There, surrounded by beautiful dancers young and old, I felt the spirit of ballet alive and kicking!
I was welcomed like an old friend, the owner, a bubbly woman named Clara, has the biggest heart you can imagine. It was Clara who invited me to spend an afternoon at their school, sharing some dance tips with the young ballerinas, and giving a talk on how dance and travel, combined with a splash of pink, can become your own personal fairytale. The kids were absolutely adorable, eyes wide with wonder as they learned a little ballet vocabulary and tried on my signature pink tutu. Let's just say, it brought tears of joy to my eyes, that contagious energy of youth and dance!
The evening brought a whole new adventure! It was time for a performance at the local theatre - a mix of classical and modern pieces choreographed by the talented students and staff at "Dance with Sparkle". I admit I had a slight tear in my eye, well maybe more than a slight one. These were the raw, passionate stories told through the language of dance, leaving me completely enthralled. I can't think of a better way to end the day, tucked away in my hotel, penning this blog post, and allowing the magic of Consett to wash over me.
Before I sign off, I want to leave you with a little reminder: You can't wear a tutu unless you believe in magic! You see, I truly believe that wearing a pink tutu is not just about fashion, it's a statement, a declaration of joy, a way of embracing life's little miracles. Whether it's taking a chance on a new adventure, learning a new skill, or just being bold enough to be yourself, a pink tutu embodies all that is playful, bold and full of heart.
So, my dearest readers, are you ready to spread the magic of pink tutus? Do share your own tutu stories in the comments, let me know what's bringing you joy this week, and don't forget to follow me on my next dance adventure!
With a final pirouette,
Emma xoxo
P.S. If you're planning your own ballet journey, Consett is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Northumberland National Park, an absolute haven for wildlife lovers! It was the perfect end to my Consett escapade - wandering amongst the breathtaking hills, feeling a renewed sense of wonder at nature's beauty. Perhaps I'll write all about it next week, and who knows, maybe even include some pink wildlife highlights. Stay tuned, my darlings!
