Ooh la la, darlings!
Emma here, your favourite tutu-wearing travel enthusiast, back with another juicy update from my pink-tinted world. As the sun sets over the Peak District and throws long shadows across the fields, I’m hunkering down in a cosy carriage, making my way towards the bustling city of London. This week, I’ve decided to trade my trusty steed for a less, shall we say, 'mud-splattered' mode of transportation, which is a bit of a shame - but I did say I’d try new things, right? And there's something quite romantic about train travel - it lets me admire the beauty of the countryside from a slightly elevated perspective, and the rhythmic clicking of the wheels provides the perfect background music to penning a blog post, wouldn’t you agree?
Now, as you may already know, I’m absolutely crazy about ballet. Everything from the grace and fluidity of the dancers, to the opulent costumes (I’m just so jealous of their exquisite tutus, darlings) makes my heart sing. In fact, you could say I'm pretty much obsessed. Pink tutu obsession? Definitely possible. But today's post is about yellow, so let me tell you all about this latest, luminous addition to my tutu collection!
The truth is, I’ve always been drawn to vibrant, eye-catching hues, but pink has reigned supreme for so long it seemed almost sacrilegious to wear another colour - almost! So when I found myself browsing through a vintage shop in Derby, surrounded by an intoxicating blend of lace, velvet and forgotten treasures, I spotted it.
A vintage yellow tutu, the colour of a springtime daffodil, with layers upon layers of soft, billowing tulle, its ribbons shimmering with golden threads like whispers of sunshine. My heart practically leaped out of my chest and straight into the tutu! As soon as I slipped it on, I was transported to another world. Imagine swirling and pirouetting in the middle of a sunflower field, the sun glinting off the golden petals...well, it was just heavenly, darling!
Adventures in Barking
Today’s trip isn't about ballet, though, as tempting as it would be to waltz into London's Royal Opera House wearing my brand new yellow tutu. (Wouldn't it make such a statement?) Nope, I'm heading to the charming neighbourhood of Barking to discover a side of London that's often overlooked. This place boasts a history that goes back centuries, from its time as a medieval hunting ground to its transformation into an industrial powerhouse. But even though the old factories are now mostly silent, Barking is undergoing a fascinating revitalisation, filled with artistic energy and a vibrant, youthful community.
You're probably wondering what a pink tutu wearing ballerina is doing in a former industrial centre? And don’t worry, I'm not going to try my pirouettes on the factory floor (I'm quite attached to my ankle joints). Instead, I’ll be spending the day exploring its quirky charm: admiring the quirky vintage shops and hidden murals; perhaps enjoying a spot of tea at the local bakehouse; and taking in the beauty of Barking's charming little green spaces - I’m sure a photoshoot in the sun, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of blooming wildflowers, is just around the corner.
But what I'm truly excited about is an exciting ballet initiative that Barking is embracing: “Dance Beyond the Stage.” This wonderful program offers ballet classes to people of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. It's designed to empower and inspire people, breaking down barriers and showcasing the joy of ballet beyond its traditional stage setting.
For someone like me, who firmly believes that everyone should experience the magic of ballet, this is just pure joy. I'll be spending some time at their rehearsal studios, observing their passionate teachers and chatting with their enthusiastic students. They’re taking ballet to a different level, challenging traditional notions and fostering a love of movement and art, which resonates with my core belief - ballet is not about age, shape, or size. It’s about passion, about the joy of expression, about letting yourself move with confidence and grace, in whatever form that takes.
Spreading the Pink Tutu Love
On my travels, I can’t resist taking advantage of local cultural attractions and getting out into nature - which is why, on my way to London, I took a slight detour to Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s wonderful visitor centre. After a delicious picnic in a secluded spot near a bubbling brook, I wandered through woodland meadows dotted with wildflowers and marveled at the diverse birdlife. There’s nothing more soothing than being surrounded by the simple beauty of nature, is there? It reminds me that there is so much wonder and inspiration to be found right in front of our noses, and I'm reminded why my love for tutus goes beyond simply wanting to twirl.
My colourful creations are, for me, a reminder to live boldly and expressively, embracing life with joy, a lightness in my steps, and a passion for everything beautiful - both on stage and beyond! You can, too! There's nothing that screams "you are a shining light!" like wearing a vibrant pink tutu, but if you need to step outside of your comfort zone and want to start somewhere, a yellow tutu will certainly add some flair.
Join me, darling, in this little dance we call life. Let’s explore, dream, and move, always seeking the beautiful and inspiring moments that life has to offer, even if it means trying out a yellow tutu on a venture to Barking!
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