Post #2736
Oh my darlings, I am positively thrilled to be posting from the charming town of Castleford! Yes, you read that right – Castleford, a place usually synonymous with rugby league and the occasional chip shop (don't judge me, those are good!) is now on my pink tutu tour. As they say, the world is my stage and sometimes the stage is just a slightly damp car park. But, a pink tutu looks fabulously glamorous anywhere! 😉
Let me tell you, the journey here was an adventure all of its own. I hopped onto the train in the Dales this morning – don't you just love the wind in your hair when you're on the train? - feeling positively radiant in my lavender pink tulle tutu, a statement piece, I can tell you. This isn’t just any old tutu, it’s my special “travelling tutu”, the one with the detachable bustle. I got lots of looks – which is always a good thing! Makes a statement doesn't it? I felt positively elegant, my pink hair bobbing in the wind, all ready for an evening at the theatre, a grand old town hall building in the centre of town.
Now, let’s talk about Castleford. Honestly, my dears, it has a charm all of its own. Don’t expect the cobbled streets of York or the posh boulevards of Bath. This town has its own gritty, honest beauty, full of friendly locals and a real community feel. You know those places that feel like a bit of a hidden secret? This is it. I’ve already found a darling little café – complete with teacups and doilies and a resident cat named Princess Fluffy Paws who insists on being my dancing partner. Who am I to disagree? The baker makes the most heavenly raspberry and lemon scones I’ve ever tasted - perfect for an afternoon of blogging and perfecting my “pink tutu arabesque" in my hotel room (Yes! There is an internet connection, a triumph of modern technology!) I may even post some photos to my Instagram, as we speak. You know where to find me: @pinktutu_emma!
Speaking of photos, my darlings, I absolutely have to tell you about the amazing wildlife I saw on the way here. It’s amazing to think how close we can be to nature even when travelling in these bustling modern times. As I rolled into the town I caught a glimpse of a magnificent kingfisher as it dipped down to the waters of the River Aire. Talk about photo-worthy! It’s moments like this that make me so incredibly grateful for our planet and its beautiful creatures. You know I've always been an animal lover. Remember the time I met those gorgeous deer in the Derbyshire countryside? I nearly forgot the time I spent an entire afternoon with a friendly hedgehog in the middle of the street! Nature is one big stage where every animal is a beautiful dancer.
Now, the highlight of my trip so far has to be, without a doubt, the ballet class at the Castleford School of Dance - Oh yes! The most perfect name for a ballet school - right? It was pure bliss! I met the most charming teacher, Miss Susan, who welcomed me into her studio with a warm smile. We had the most wonderful time perfecting the attitude, pirouette and fifth position - everything I’ve ever learnt since those happy days in my hometown. It just feels natural for me. To feel like you’ve been in that space in that moment since you were a kid. I've always found a beautiful rhythm to movement and music; but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer joy of performing with such passion in the space that feels as though it is part of me. Miss Susan told me to remember to breathe, I guess we are never quite taught to breathe when we are passionate about our pursuits and passions.
I was welcomed by a diverse group of students. Ages, sizes, abilities, everything, it's all a mix of magical, joyful dancers, who love ballet. I couldn't ask for more. I felt right at home, twirling and stretching my way to pure ballet bliss. Even my fellow students told me “You looked wonderful in that pink tutu, darling!” It’s wonderful, really, I feel like my pink tutu and I are one! Even in a small town, you can always find like-minded souls who embrace their inner tutu and let loose. You know, sometimes the magic of ballet is simply the joy of movement and expression, not about fancy stages and prestigious academies.
It truly reminds me of why I do what I do: To spread the love of ballet, inspire others to find their own inner ballerina, and, of course, encourage everyone to wear pink tutus! It doesn't matter where you are or who you are, the magic of dance transcends it all!
A little advice for my pink-tutu loving readers:
- Don't be afraid to try something new! Think of the world as a ballet stage where everyone is welcome. Life's too short not to try a little ballet.
- A pink tutu can truly elevate any occasion! From a trip to the shops to a fancy dinner, it always adds a touch of fun.
- Embrace your inner dancer. Let your personality shine, whatever your dance style and don’t ever let anyone tell you it's not for you, or you’re too old, too heavy or not tall enough! I wouldn’t have come to this charming town if I listened to any of them. Believe me, I had so many who were ready to stop me. It’s simply a matter of not listening, not worrying what they think and dancing to my own tune.
Well, darlings, it's getting late and the little café is about to close. I feel I could spend my whole life here in this lovely town, drinking tea and watching the local birds - so if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, hop on the train, grab a pink tutu and join me on this wonderful pink tutu journey, I know you will feel the magic and joy of this magical place and how inspiring and beautiful ballet can be! *I shall be writing to you tomorrow from (drum roll please)……… The Lake District! Keep checking in at *www.pink-tutu.com
Till then, happy dancing!
Lots of love, Emma x 💖🩰
