Happy New Year, darlings!
Can you believe it’s already 2002? It feels like just yesterday I was twirling into 2001! But time, as they say, keeps on ticking like a metronome, and my dance shoes keep on tapping. This year, I've vowed to travel further, dance even more, and sprinkle as much pink tutu magic as possible across the land!
Speaking of magical lands, this past week, I've been whisked away to the seaside town of North Shields, up in Northumberland! Now, you all know I’m a Derbyshire girl at heart, but the North is growing on me, it truly is.
The journey itself was an adventure! Forget planes, I travelled in style by train, nestled between the comfy seats with my trusty copy of Giselle and a little picnic basket filled with homemade sandwiches and, of course, pink-frosted cupcakes!
The North Sea: A Ballet Dancer's Dream
Arriving in North Shields, I was greeted by the salty kiss of the North Sea and a view that was positively breathtaking. The River Tyne meandering like a graceful ribbon towards the sea, the towering industrial cranes like ballet dancers in steel, and the sun setting over the horizon with the soft pink glow of a tulle skirt - it was a visual feast that I could hardly tear myself away from.
The first thing I had to do was get my tutu twirling on! My outfit was perfect for a seaside day – my blush pink chiffon tutu billowed beautifully in the sea breeze, a lavender floral top with puff sleeves adding a touch of whimsical elegance, and some sparkling, silver ballet shoes that caught the light of the setting sun. I was a ballerina on a beach, ready to take on the world!
A Day of Ballet Bliss
North Shields surprised me with a thriving arts scene. My first stop was The Customs House, a charming little theatre that held an exhibition of ballet photography. I even recognised some famous dancers! It was amazing to see those beautiful moves captured in frozen moments, reminding me of the sheer artistry of the dance.
Later, I headed to a lovely little ballet studio that was tucked away in a cobbled street. Imagine my delight when I discovered a special workshop teaching “Ballet on the Beach.” I was ecstatic! Imagine dancing barefoot in the soft sand, with the sea breeze whispering your name. We practiced some beautiful arabesques with the horizon as our stage. It was simply heavenly!
Pink Tutu Power
Of course, I couldn't leave North Shields without a spot of retail therapy. I stumbled upon a vintage shop that was a true gem! Amongst the antique furniture and antique clothes, I found the most wonderful things - a pair of dusty pink silk ballet shoes that I'll treasure forever and a beautifully framed photo of a ballet dancer mid-pirouette. The shop owner, a sweet woman with a twinkle in her eye, even said that it was meant to be, as the photo had been hanging there for years, waiting for a fellow dancer to take it home.
My last night in North Shields was an absolute delight. I dined at a seafood restaurant, trying every kind of local shellfish, and watched the boats bobbing in the harbour as the moon rose in the sky, perfectly reflecting in the still water.
The Message in My Tutu
You see, darlings, that's what I love most about travelling – it's not just about visiting new places, it’s about discovering the unexpected, meeting lovely people, and getting inspired by new stories. It’s about the journey, about allowing my tutu to take me places I never thought I'd be, and letting the world see the ballerina within.
As I sit here in my cosy Derbyshire cottage, writing this post, I’m already dreaming of my next ballet adventure. My calendar is filling up with workshops, shows, and, of course, more tutu-filled journeys.
So here's to more pink tutus, more ballet bliss, more travelling, and more of those magical moments that make life truly beautiful. And remember, darlings, you don't have to be a professional dancer to experience the joy of ballet. Put on your favourite dress, grab a friend, and find a local studio - or even just dance in your living room! You might be surprised at what you find inside.
Until next time,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
