Oh, darling dears! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad traveller, Emma, here, reporting live from the charming Welsh town of Merthyr Tydfil. I know what you're thinking - a ballet blogger in a place like Merthyr Tydfil? Well, let me tell you, even the most unexpected locations can surprise you with a delightful dance of culture, charm, and maybe even a dash of pink!
This trip, like many of my travels, began with a romantic train journey. It's the most civilised way to get about, you know. Soaking up the countryside views as the gentle rhythm of the train tracks lull you into a relaxed state. (It helps that my travel tutu is perfectly comfortable for even the longest train rides - why wouldn't you travel in a tutu?!). And it was just the perfect start to a weekend packed full of ballet-themed activities.
Merthyr Tydfil, to my surprise, has a bustling cultural scene - and I was determined to discover it all. I spotted a rather grand building which turned out to be Theatr Cymerau - their local theatre! Now, darling dears, it may not be Covent Garden but, I tell you, the energy was positively vibrant. They had a fantastic programme of events - a pantomime, a comedy show, even a workshop on creating your own miniature theatre! I was positively giddy with excitement - I knew just what my next post-show treat was going to be (a miniature theatre, obvs, complete with a miniature pink tutu for my ballerina doll!).
But it wasn’t all about the theatres - the town itself had an infectious charm. The shops were quaint, the people friendly, and I even spotted a rather dashing gentleman who reminded me of a handsome young ballet dancer! It seems even in Merthyr Tydfil, you can find pockets of ballet magic!
As my stay continued, I decided it was time for some fresh air, a good dose of Welsh nature. The Cynon Valley Park beckoned! Now, you know how I love my wildlife, right? So naturally, I grabbed my binoculars, my lucky pink tutu (because, of course, a ballet dancer always needs their lucky charm), and embarked on a journey through the verdant green valleys. Imagine, darling dears! I actually spotted a wild fox. I even managed to snap a photo with my phone (you can bet that picture will be on Instagram by this afternoon)!
It wasn't all sunshine and rainbows, though. The highlight of my trip? That, darling dears, had to be the absolutely unforgettable ballot experience. You see, the Merthyr Tydfil Amateur Ballet Society was putting on their annual performance, and you can bet this pink tutu princess wouldn't miss it! These talented dancers had such passion and grace, they truly brought the story to life. You would think I’d feel a twinge of competitive jealousy as I watch these lovely dancers gracefully pirouette, but it only ignited my own desire to keep pursuing my love of the art. It's a beautiful thing to share the same love of ballet, isn't it?
The atmosphere was simply divine! Every time they performed a delicate pas de deux (a sweet duet for you uninitiated), the audience erupted into applause. Even a tiny toddler near me was clapping her hands in delight! You'd be amazed, darling dears, how joyfully infectious ballet can be!
And then, the pièce de résistance. They dedicated a whole number to “Pink Paradise!” Now, who doesn’t love a touch of pink in their ballets, especially when the whole town comes together to celebrate a ballet classic in such a wonderfully authentic way? I may be a little biased (just a tad), but this performance absolutely stole my heart!
I don't want to be melodramatic, darling dears, but I had an absolute BALL (pun fully intended!) in Merthyr Tydfil. I love to discover ballet communities wherever I travel. And here I’ve found another inspiring place full of beautiful dancers, kind people, and a vibrant culture. So, remember this: don't be afraid to explore. Who knows where your next ballet adventure might lead?
And darling dears, keep twirling, keep dancing, and never stop dreaming of pink tutus!
Until next time!
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
