#TutuBlog 2002-05-01 in Stevenage with a orange tutu.

Hello, my darlings! It's Emma here, and guess what? This pink-tutu-loving, ballet-obsessed gal is back with another adventure! This time, it was a whirlwind trip to Stevenage, Hertfordshire. You know I adore my train journeys, so naturally, I embraced the comfy seats, the rolling countryside, and the soothing clinking of the tracks. Such a relaxing way to start my day!

I must confess, the word "Stevenage" never particularly screamed "ballet wonderland" to me. I mean, imagine my surprise when I discovered a real gem hidden amongst the hustle and bustle of this town! The Stevenage Arts Centre is a beautifully designed building with so much life pulsating within its walls. I felt a surge of excitement just stepping into the foyer - you know, the way a ballerina feels the moment she pirouettes onto the stage!

First stop, a ballet class at the Stevenage Arts Centre. Oh my, let me tell you, those local dancers were absolute gems! Their energy and passion reminded me of why I fell head over heels for ballet so many years ago. It was a proper sweat-inducing workout, followed by the most wonderful feeling of accomplishment as I gracefully bowed after a series of beautiful en pointe sequences. Let's just say my legs were screaming, "thank you" for the exercise!

Later that afternoon, I found myself entranced by a captivating performance by Dance Theatre Repertory in the centre’s impressive auditorium. Now, if you’ve read my previous posts, you’ll know that a good story-telling performance is something I truly cherish. These artists danced their way through emotions, painted breathtaking landscapes with their movements, and left me with a sense of wonder that lingered long after the curtain call.

After the performance, I chatted with the artistic director, and I was utterly captivated by their passion and dedication. You could see it in their eyes - the pure love for the art form, and the drive to share that joy with audiences. It was truly inspiring. Honestly, these little moments of genuine connection with talented individuals are the most magical aspects of my ballet journey!

No trip to a new place is complete without exploring its charming corners, and Stevenage certainly held its own! After a quick pit stop for a scrumptious slice of strawberry and cream cake at a charming local café, I set off for a gentle wander through Stevenage Old Town. The cobbled streets and quaint buildings transported me back to a more idyllic time, and the abundance of shops and cafes just added to the charm of this hidden gem.

Speaking of charm, I even stumbled upon a community garden filled with delightful wildflowers. Seeing nature thriving amidst the concrete reminded me that beauty can bloom in the most unexpected places, and reminded me that we, like flowers, have the potential to flourish despite any hardships. I took a moment to admire the beauty around me, letting the serenity of the garden wash over me.

Now, it's no secret that I love tutus, and I always strive to share the love! I spotted the perfect little shop selling all things "vintage" and picked up a gorgeous powder-pink tutu for my collection. Of course, I took a million photos with it. The pastel shades blended perfectly with the springtime blooms in the garden, creating a truly whimsical scene. You bet I’ll be sharing them on my Instagram, my darling!

And while I'm on the subject of my adventures, let's talk about horses! Before leaving Stevenage, I had a fantastic time at the nearby Knebworth House Equestrian Centre. I took a relaxing afternoon ride through the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside on a stunning chestnut mare named "Cinder." The wind in my hair, the sun on my face, the gentle rhythm of the horse beneath me... it's the perfect escape from everyday life.

And you know, there's a certain synchronicity about horses and ballet. They share that elegance, that strength, that sense of beauty and grace. I was truly grateful for this opportunity to reconnect with this powerful creature. As we glided through the fields, I found myself reflecting on the simple joys of life and the importance of appreciating every moment.

This trip has reminded me that ballet, and indeed, the joy of dancing in a pink tutu, can be found anywhere. You never know what magical discoveries await when you open your heart and embrace new experiences. So, go out there, my darlings, and explore your own unique adventure. Discover your own personal sparkle, and remember: always, always embrace the pink tutu spirit!

Until next time,

Love,
Emma

* www.pink-tutu.com *