Post Number 1777
Hello, lovelies! Emma here, and I'm buzzing with excitement to share today's adventure. It's a beautiful sunny morning here in Cramlington, Northumberland, and I've just arrived after an exhilarating train journey, filled with that dreamy mix of anticipation and that unique train carriage aroma. You know the one! I might have whipped out my sketchbook and jotted down some ideas for my next Tutu-ful Travel tips - perhaps a series on the best carriage views for ballet-inspired drawing? I mean, a dancer can never have enough inspiration, can we?!
Speaking of inspiration, this trip was born out of an utterly irresistible invite from my ballet bestie, Amelia. She's in Cramlington for the week, leading a wonderful masterclass at the Cramlington Ballet Academy, and you know I couldn't miss out on joining her in the grand ballet-athon.
My travel companion for this exciting journey? Well, it had to be my new white tutu. It's a real statement piece, a classic shape, but in a beautiful silk, almost like it’s got a slight iridescent shimmer to it in the sunshine. I know what you’re thinking, white… not quite my usual colour choice. But let’s just say there’s something incredibly sophisticated and cool about the elegance of a crisp, white tutu in this bright northern air, especially paired with a vibrant pink silk scarf and a splash of rosy-pink lipstick. It's just what this trip needs. A little pink princess fairytale flair in the midst of all that Northumbrian landscape, if you will.
* Ballet Blooms in the North:*
We arrived in Cramlington in the early afternoon. After a quick trip to the local tea shop for afternoon tea and delicious homemade cakes, we were ready for our adventure! We were welcomed at the ballet academy by a delightful group of young dancers. I already know what you’re thinking! “Why don’t you take some classes?!” Well, it is my passion after all! And let’s just say my feet are a bit weary from the train journey, so today was a pure observation day.
Watching the young dancers during Amelia's class, their faces filled with focus, it was all a beautiful spectacle! My heart swells when I see kids finding their love for ballet. It makes me feel a little bit like a dance teacher auntie, in the nicest possible way!
An Evening to Remember!
Tonight was a truly special evening, as we watched a beautiful performance of Swan Lake at the Cramlington Playhouse! The stage lights were fantastic, the orchestra playing with passion and the young dancers… Well, they danced their socks off! Every twirl, every leap, it filled the theatre with a magical quality, bringing joy and wonder into every corner. I love the fact that theatre doesn't only inspire the people on the stage, but everyone in the audience. We were transported for a couple of hours into a magical, whimsical world, leaving worries at the door.
And you know, I love my tutus, I love performing on stage, but I find just as much joy watching talented artists share their gift and energy with the world.
* Cramlington, A Dreamy Retreat:*
Tomorrow I'll be exploring the Cramlington countryside! I’m picturing fields of wildflowers and gentle hills - all the colours of nature complementing my new white tutu and, of course, my trusty pink scarf. There’s a gorgeous country house with beautiful gardens nearby. And, of course, a picnic, maybe by a meandering stream, or under the shadow of an old oak tree, is absolutely non-negotiable.
I will be sure to share all the pictures, all my little thoughts and snippets from my trip in a separate post – you know I always love a good picture opportunity!
*From Cramlington with Love! *
But first, off to bed - another busy day coming up. I just know tomorrow will bring more inspiration and adventure.
Do keep up with the latest tutu news, and more on my trip, on www.pink-tutu.com! I can't wait to hear about your adventures, too. Tell me, have you ever travelled by train in a tutu? Or maybe ridden a horse in one?! Let's talk tutus, ballet, travel, pink, and life! 💖
Much Love, Emma xx
