Hello, my gorgeous darlings! It's Emma here, and you know how much I love a good day trip, so grab your pink tutus and follow me on a magical journey to Derby!
I can't remember the last time I went into Derby – maybe when I was a little ballerina still dreaming of becoming a prima ballerina? It feels like a lifetime ago, honestly. So I was bubbling over with excitement as I boarded the train from my home in Derbyshire, feeling like I was going on a mini adventure. I was travelling solo today, just me, my pink tutu and my trusty notebook.
Speaking of tutus, oh my gosh, the excitement was almost overwhelming! It’s my brightest pink tutu, with layers and layers of tulle, and the way it swishes and swirls just makes me want to twirl for hours on end! It's a real head-turner – I got quite a few admiring glances on the train, and I'm telling you, there's no better way to brighten someone's day than with a pink tutu and a big, joyful smile.
Speaking of joy, I always find train journeys so relaxing. Watching the countryside roll by as I listen to my favourite ballet playlist always puts me in a happy mood. I was enjoying a beautiful view of the Derbyshire countryside, a mix of rolling green hills and pretty farmhouses with the occasional herd of cows, which reminded me that Derbyshire has this fabulous tradition of “well-behaved” cows – or so my Gran told me.
Anyway, my day was planned around two lovely events – both with a strong connection to ballet! First, I had tickets to see the National Ballet Company perform in the beautiful Derby Theatre. It was a treat I had planned for ages! I adore watching the professionals dance, and their technique, strength and emotion just mesmerise me! It makes me yearn to get back into the studio myself!
The theatre was a delight. The decor was a real blend of old and new, which created a gorgeous and inspiring setting. As I settled into my plush red velvet seat (pink tutu perfectly framing my face, naturally!) I could feel my excitement bubbling over – and the show did not disappoint. The performance of Giselle was enchanting, with intricate choreography and breathtaking leaps, even leaving the most hardened dance critic spellbound. The music was beautiful too, and at some points, I found myself lost in the emotions on stage, feeling like I was actually in the ballet!
After the ballet, I couldn't resist taking a little stroll through the charming cobblestone streets. The lovely sunshine, combined with the quaint buildings and little cafes made for the perfect post-ballet atmosphere. As I enjoyed a delicious cream tea (nothing like a little tea and scones with lashings of clotted cream after a delightful show!), I was reminded just how important it is to nurture the inner child – and a pink tutu definitely helps with that!
Then, it was onto the next stop, a truly special visit to Derby's renowned dance school, which I had booked well in advance! As I stepped into the studio, I could smell the warm scent of wood polish and hear the soft clatter of ballet shoes – my ballet senses tingled with anticipation!
I joined a class specifically for adults, which was wonderful for my own development, but also something I encourage you all to try. We all know ballet's good for posture and grace – and it's amazing how fast the time flies by when you're in the middle of a class! But even if you're not into wearing tutus or having a "full ballet experience", I highly recommend exploring ballet classes in your local community. They're truly empowering and make you feel connected to something larger than yourself – just as the theatre did earlier.
And while the pink tutu has to wait its turn at the back of my ballet bag until my next performance – we can't be in full attire all the time! – the magic of Derby lives on in my heart and mind, forever woven into the story of my pink tutu journey.
What about you lovelies? What did you get up to today? Let me know in the comments below and share your thoughts about the power of dance and the joy of embracing life with a big, beautiful smile, just like I did! And don’t forget to wear your pink tutu with pride!
Until tomorrow, keep twirling, darlings!
Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
