Hey darlings! Emma here, bringing you a splash of pink and a twirl of delight straight from sunny Stretford! ☀️
Well, let's be honest, it wasn't actually sunny, but there's always sunshine in my heart - especially when I'm surrounded by such vibrant energy. And Stretford truly was buzzing, darling! It's one of those little pockets of charm you discover when you venture beyond the usual tourist spots. It's a perfect blend of modern and historic, with those beautiful red-brick Victorian terraces, cute independent cafes, and the most incredible little bookshop crammed with vintage treasures.
This weekend, Stretford became the backdrop for my newest ballet adventures, which, as you know, are always my favourite kind! Let me fill you in on the highlights...
A Dance-Filled Day in the City of Roses 🌹
Stretford might be famed for its red roses, but I felt like I was in a garden of blooms, all in shades of pink and purple! It started with the most divine ballet class at the Stretford Dance Academy, nestled amongst those historic terraces. It's a real gem - tucked away like a secret treasure, but teeming with talented dancers who share a love for all things ballet.
Wearing my trusty purple tutu, which just screamed “stretford chic”, I felt right at home in this cosy studio. The warm sunlight filtering through the window gave the room an ethereal glow, and the instructor, Miss Cartwright, was an absolute darling with her infectious enthusiasm. She’s a veteran dancer, a proper diamond in the rough, and her moves were a whirlwind of elegance. It's not every day you find yourself twirling and leaping alongside a ballet legend!
And speaking of diamonds, can we talk about this adorable café next door called "The Diamond Twirl"?! Perfect for a post-class catch-up and some of the best scones I've had in ages (paired with a pot of steaming tea, of course! It was like a little slice of heaven in the heart of Stretford!). The interior was just so charming, decorated with beautiful antique mirrors, vintage teacups, and little sprigs of lavender adorning the tables. I felt like I had stepped into a fairytale - complete with a ballet shoe shaped tea strainer! 😉
From the Dance Studio to the Theatre
After all that energetic ballet action, I had a much-needed break before venturing out to see "Swan Lake" at the beautiful Stretford Playhouse. Now, if you're like me, and believe that a truly spectacular ballet performance needs a show-stopping tutu, then the Stretford Playhouse delivers on all fronts!
The theater itself is stunning! It has that classic, grand Victorian architecture, with soaring ceilings, intricately carved woodwork, and a stage fit for royalty. And what an audience! I was surrounded by fellow tutu-loving souls, their pink and purple fabrics a flurry of joyous colours against the velvet seats.
“Swan Lake”, oh my! The ballerinas glided effortlessly across the stage, the male dancers were a breathtaking mix of power and grace, and the costumes were simply exquisite. It was a complete and utter feast for the eyes, and the energy from the performance vibrated through the entire theater, sending chills down my spine.
And afterwards, we had the most delicious meal at a little Italian restaurant tucked away near the theatre. The food was divine - all fresh, homemade pasta, with that perfect combination of flavours and textures. It felt like the perfect ending to a truly memorable evening.
Stretford on a Whimsical Train Ride 🚃
As a dedicated tutu-wearer and hopeless romantic, train journeys are my favourite mode of travel. I always try to find time to look out the window, letting the world glide past and daydreaming of my next adventure.
So, of course, I opted for the train back home, taking in the scenery. I loved spotting those little pockets of green, rolling hills, and cosy countryside towns tucked away between sprawling suburbs and bustling city centres.
For the ride back, I changed into a lovely lavender tutu, which, by the way, is my favourite colour next to pink. Because a girl can never have too many tutus! 😉
It was so lovely to sit there, listening to the gentle rumble of the train, the rhythm echoing my ballet steps.
My mind drifted to the next post, the next performance, the next dance class, the next new town to explore... It truly was a wonderful weekend and I can't wait to share the rest of my adventures with you.
Until next time, darlings!
Love, Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
