Post #2017
Hello, darlings! It's Emma here, fresh from a delightful trip to Didcot, a charming little town tucked away in Oxfordshire. Now, Didcot may not be the most glamorous destination, but it held a special charm for me this time around, mainly due to the fact that it brought me a whole heap closer to a wonderful ballet show! I do love a good train journey, and this one was especially delightful as I was adorned in a very pink, rather stiff tutu. Let's just say, my legs were definitely doing their own 'plié' as I navigated the train carriage, causing a flurry of giggles and admiring glances. Honestly, the best way to travel is in a tutu, wouldn't you agree? 😉
Before we get into the main event, let's talk wildlife! As I was making my way from Didcot Parkway station to my destination, I was delighted to see a flock of robins flitting around, their scarlet breasts a brilliant splash of colour against the wintery backdrop. They're so much like us dancers, don't you think? Full of grace, delicate, and always bringing joy to the heart!
Anyway, back to the real reason for this little jaunt to Didcot – a beautiful production of "Giselle" by the National Ballet of * * * (name of company withheld on request - it's a little surprise!) . I absolutely adore "Giselle," it's a tale of love, loss, and betrayal set to the most stunning music, and this rendition was no exception. The costumes were spectacular, the dancing exquisite, and I have to admit, a couple of tears even escaped my usually-so-bright eyes during the poignant ending. It just gets to me, that exquisite storytelling through movement.
Now, I know what you're thinking: How could a little town like Didcot house such an incredible ballet performance? Well, it was actually in the beautiful Didcot Civic Hall, a magnificent venue that seems to be full of hidden potential for cultural gems like this one. The Hall itself was a dream come true - decorated with lush, rich colors, all the more glorious because it contrasted beautifully with the stark winter skies outside. It almost felt like a Victorian dream come to life!
Of course, no ballet adventure is complete without a little ballet class! After the performance, I made my way to Didcot Dance Academy, tucked away in a peaceful corner of the town. I'd always dreamed of visiting a dance academy in such a picturesque location, surrounded by fields and quiet, tree-lined lanes. And the dance floor itself, oh, it was perfection! Gleaming wood, an airy space that seemed to almost dance itself, and filled with so much enthusiasm, even after a full performance day. They even offered ballet on pointe shoes, you know! So obviously, I just had to try! My old pirouettes weren't quite what they used to be, but with some encouragement from the instructor, a beautiful young woman with a pink-streaked ponytail and the sweetest smile, my petit jetés started to fly again!
Didcot – more than just a town?
Didcot has become more than just a place I travelled through; it's a memory filled with pink tutus, elegant dance movements, and the pure joy of being lost in the world of ballet. Who would have thought that this seemingly unremarkable town would leave such a mark on my soul?
Speaking of soul, let me tell you, I absolutely adore Didcot’s quaint little coffee shops! The tea is divine, the atmosphere so cosy, and you’ll find some incredible, delicious treats – some more “pink” than others, wink, wink.
So, if you’re looking for a getaway that blends ballet with charm, wildlife, and a healthy dose of pink, then a visit to Didcot is a must. I highly recommend a journey on the train, or better still, a lovely, scenic horseback ride - that is, if you can manage in a tutu. Trust me, a pink tutu just makes any journey more enjoyable!
And if you're feeling inspired, maybe put on a pink tutu yourself? I dare you to embrace your inner dancer, to find the beautiful art in everyday life!
And remember, keep dancing, my loves! Emma x
P.S. Be sure to check out www.pink-tutu.com for more fun posts, ballet recommendations, and exciting news from the world of pink and tutus!
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