Hello darlings!
It's Emma here, and guess what? I'm back in Southampton, the city that never sleeps…well, it probably does, but I'm here for a fabulous whirlwind weekend! I just love coming down here, the energy is always electric, and it just screams 'Tutu time!' Don't worry, my dear readers, I didn't forget my yellow tutu. Oh no, I’ve got a whole arsenal of them packed for this trip - you never know when a perfect opportunity will arise!
The journey down was such a dream. I took the train, of course, with the sun glinting off the countryside. It was a true vision, reminding me of my childhood days spent frolicking in the fields near my home in Derbyshire. My little heart was singing with excitement! And speaking of excitement, did I mention that my lovely, pink tutu, the one with the pearl trim, finally arrived from the Parisian boutique? Yes, it’s absolutely divine! I might just give it an airing today!
The reason for my jaunt to Southampton, you ask? Why, it's for the South Coast Ballet Festival, of course! Now, I don’t just like to watch ballet, oh no, I love to be part of the show! My favorite part is actually the street performance component. I find there's nothing more exhilarating than the energy of a live crowd, watching everyone's faces light up with wonder. And, of course, my fellow ballet-loving souls, the tutus on display - they are absolutely spectacular!
So, on my way to the first show this afternoon, I'm going to soak in the atmosphere. This afternoon's performance is "Sleeping Beauty" and I have my tutu, my special lucky pink lipstick (because even ballerinas need a little bit of pink!), my phone with all its fancy Instagram filters at the ready, and, oh yes, my fluffy white rabbit mascot, Bubbles, who will be proudly watching from my handbag! She never misses a show.
You know what else? Southampton just has the most adorable shops! I managed to snag a beautiful pair of ballerina flats with a bright pink bow on the toe (I know, how could I resist!), and even found a delectable pastry shop called ‘Pink Flamingo’. Needless to say, I had to sample some of their pink and white macarons - so incredibly chic, just like me!
Tonight is "Swan Lake", which, honestly, just sounds perfect! I will probably be too emotional during the "Dying Swan" to actually dance in the audience - but that won't stop me from twirling outside after the show! Speaking of twirling, did you know I discovered a magical little antique shop near the theater that sells vintage tutus? Now, you know me, I couldn't resist trying on a couple! I swear, I could spend hours there!
Now, I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t sneak in some animal watching in between all of this tutudrama. The Solent is just overflowing with marine life, from graceful dolphins to those silly-looking, adorable seals! I can't help but fall in love with every little critter I see. In fact, I even spotted a heron taking a bath in a puddle while I was wandering the streets yesterday – so glamorous!
This city has a real history too, so naturally, I’ve taken some time to explore the docks, with the majestic old ships, and wandered down cobbled alleyways - it feels like stepping straight out of a Jane Austen novel. You just can't beat the romance of the sea! But honestly, who needs romance when you’ve got a dazzling tutu, an excited audience and the whole world waiting to be embraced in the wonder of ballet!
Tonight, I plan on enjoying a delicious homemade vegan fish and chips – you see, even the chips can be pink when you’ve got the right inspiration! Then, a peaceful evening exploring the harbour in the cool, salty air, listening to the waves gently lap against the shore… but my true mission this trip, and maybe the most important mission in my life? To encourage more people to wear pink tutus and discover the joys of dancing!
So, to my readers, get out there! Find your nearest dance studio, get those pink tutus on, and let's make the world a more colourful and joyful place, one pirouette at a time!
Keep it pink,
Emma xx
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