Post 2588
Hello my darling tutu-lovers! It's Emma here, back from my adventures in the fab city of Liverpool! The journey down from Derbyshire was pure bliss. You know how much I love a good train ride, all that lovely countryside scenery flashing by the window. And of course, the sheer joy of a tutu twirl whilst travelling in a train carriage (try it, it's liberating!)
As usual, I had my pink tutu on, this time a darling European style affair, very delicate and pretty with a layer of fluffy pink tulle on top. It looked fabulous against the backdrop of those brick buildings and cobbled streets. Speaking of cobblestones, Liverpool seems to have more than its fair share. I've been carefully picking my way through them with my elegant ballet slippers, and I have to say it gives your calf muscles quite the workout!
Now, as much as I love a good tutued-up train journey, the real treat this time was a show at the iconic Liverpool Empire Theatre. You could tell they've gone to town to get that grand, old theatre look right. Oh, and did I mention the seats? Velvet-covered comfort, you could just sit in them all day and I certainly considered doing just that!
But we weren't there just for the comfy seats, no, we were there for the magic of dance! I must admit, I wasn't sure what to expect when I first heard about this performance - it was a contemporary piece by some young, up-and-coming choreographers. You see, I'm a big fan of classical ballet, but I love branching out and discovering new things too.
And I have to say, the piece blew me away! The energy was infectious, and the dancers moved with such power and fluidity. They weren't wearing tutus (shame, really, a little bit of pink could never hurt!), but they were moving with so much grace and precision that it almost felt like ballet, just a very, very modern kind! It was one of those performances that you walk out of feeling buzzing and inspired, ready to twirl and leap until the wee hours.
Speaking of buzzing, there’s a brilliant cafe on the waterfront called "The Beatles" that serves some killer hot chocolate. My top tip? Go for the "Strawberry Fields" one. Trust me, it’s dreamy.
Anyway, after the theatre, I couldn’t resist popping into the Royal Albert Dock. What a place! The architectural style is absolutely stunning – all brick, stone and elegant walkways. You can tell it’s a place that’s had many lives, from busy shipping dock to thriving arts hub. There's this great mix of art galleries, trendy shops, bars, and cafes – a real mishmash of things. It reminds me of my home town in Derbyshire, with all the different types of shops and buildings.
And the best bit? I actually got to see a real live Beatles' museum! It’s dedicated to everyone’s favourite Liverpudlians - a must-visit for any true fan of music. The displays were fascinating, from vintage instruments to original costumes, a real history lesson of one of the biggest musical groups of all time. Although the best part was a giant guitar installation - they used lots of these colourful glass blocks which, for some reason, reminded me of my pink tutu… Maybe I need a tutu made from those glass blocks, I'll think about it.
My love of music wouldn't be complete without a trip to The Cavern Club. I mean, where else can you relive the electrifying history of rock 'n' roll in this tiny basement, where a certain group of lads took their first steps to musical fame? The air was thick with energy, as though the music still echoes in every nook and cranny. Of course, I didn’t go on stage, but I danced as hard as I could while listening to the cover bands performing. And who wouldn’t want to have a twirl when surrounded by such vibrant energy, history, and music?
You know, Liverpool’s got a real spirit, it’s a city bursting with energy and history, which really shone through for me. I had a wonderful weekend – not just because it was the perfect blend of culture and fun, but also because it’s so full of personality. Of course, a bit of me wishes I'd worn a more dramatic, theatrical style tutu with all that amazing, dramatic architecture, maybe one with some layers of frills.
Liverpool’s the kind of place you just want to explore more, get lost in its character. And it’s a great place to inspire a bit of your own artistic creativity. Just like when I went to the wildlife park at Chester on the way back - all those colours and textures… there was this incredible swan with a shimmering silver feather… I started making some sketches for a tutu that reflects those feathers in its design. Oh, and it'll definitely have pink in it, don’t worry, that goes without saying!
So my lovelies, that’s my report from my fabulous Liverpool adventure. I’ve got a lot to think about and more to plan – next stop? I hear the ballet theatre in Prague is beautiful, just picture it… a pink tutu and a castle! Until next time, keep your ballet slippers ready for your next big adventure! And remember, always keep that pink tutu close to your heart!
Love, Emma x
