#TutuBlog Post #1622
Hello my lovely Tutu-istas! It's Emma here, ready to whisk you away to a new ballet adventure. As the title might have given away, today I'm travelling all the way to Batley in West Yorkshire, a place famous for its textiles, its Victorian architecture and, now, for me because today I am on a mission to spread the pink tutu gospel.
It’s a crisp December morning, and my trusty pink tutu is tucked neatly into my little black suitcase, all ready for another adventure. This time, my trusty steed isn’t a horse, oh no, I’m hopping on the train, feeling very “Downton Abbey” with the comfy leather seats and the promise of a scenic journey.
Speaking of journeys, my pink tutu has a real story to tell this week! It's not just any ordinary tutu – this one is Italian, bought in Florence last month. Can you believe it?! It’s an absolutely divine creation, with the most delicate tulle, sparkling pink sequins and just the right amount of fluff, all in the most beautiful pale pink, perfect for the festive season. The lovely lady in the shop assured me that its Italian magic would draw attention wherever I go!
Before we arrive at the train station, I always love a wander through Derbyshire. The countryside here really calms my mind – I can hear the birds singing, the wind rustling the leaves, and, occasionally, I’m lucky enough to spot a deer or two! It really grounds me, giving me that spark of inspiration that always seems to make my choreography ideas pop in my head!
The train journey whizzes by – it's funny, watching people rush by on their way to work or errands, wrapped up in their daily routines. They all have their own stories to tell, just like the tutu. Sometimes I imagine them all swirling in their own special pink tutu, but, perhaps, they don’t realise their dreams are within reach. But my dream is getting all these beautiful people to give ballet a try – to twirl, jump, and discover the joy of moving with grace!
Batley is an intriguing little town – full of charm, history and independent businesses. I can tell this will be an adventure for my pink tutu. We're off to a lovely vintage store called “Ruby & Rose” first, just so it can get its fashion fix – there’s something very vintage about its intricate, sequin-covered construction. Then it’s off to a charity shop where we might just unearth a perfect, pre-loved ballet outfit for a little local girl.
After lunch – a pink cake, of course – I’ll be trying out my newly-learned choreography for my next performance – a beautiful sequence inspired by a book about flamingos in their pink haven. That reminds me – remember I promised you a blog about how to create the ultimate pink flamingo tutu for your next flamingo-themed party or ballet class? I’ll get it posted for you soon.
The evening is when the magic happens! The Batley Theatre is just down the road from my little bed and breakfast, so I can hear the warm laughter and applause from my room. I’ll be at the front row with my tutu gleaming under the stage lights. Tonight it's the “Batley Ballet Club’s Winter Spectacular” – the program is a delicious mix of classic ballet pieces, like the “Swan Lake,” and new contemporary pieces featuring beautiful choreography with dramatic costumes.
I love supporting local ballet clubs – it’s important for everyone to have access to ballet, especially those who live in smaller communities, as we don't all live near London’s Royal Opera House, after all!
What’s lovely about smaller clubs is that the enthusiasm shines through in every performance – every move tells a story. They remind me of my passion for this dance form that brings joy, creativity, expression and even a little magic into our lives.
My mission is simple – I want to give a ballet class to every single person I meet. I know that seems unrealistic, but if I can even convince one person to step onto the dance floor and experience the power and the freedom of ballet for themselves, it’s worth every single pink tulle moment.
See, that’s my thing! My life isn’t just about wearing pink tutus and attending fancy events (though I do admire those aspects very much). It’s about inspiring people to believe in their own abilities and to chase after their own unique dreams. Whether it’s getting onto the stage, mastering a grand jete or just dancing around your kitchen while cooking – you’re never too old or too untalented to discover your own personal ballerina magic.
If my travels inspire just one person to start a dance journey then that would mean everything to me. Let me know about your own dance experiences. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram at “@EmmaThePinkTutuGirl"
Until tomorrow’s adventure!
All the love and tutu hugs,
Emma 💕 🩰 💖
