Hello darlings! Emma here, your favourite Derbyshire ballerina, reporting live from the heart of London, Westminster to be precise!
As you know, I simply adore a good adventure. So imagine my delight when I was invited to the fabulous National Ballet Theatre for their newest performance, Giselle. I couldn't resist! And I had to pull out my lucky green tutu – the colour's simply magical on me, don't you think?
This journey was even more special. Forget stuffy carriages or crowded buses, I travelled by the most magnificent steed imaginable: a gloriously crimson vintage steam engine train! There's just something about the whistle, the smoke, the journey, which instantly makes me feel like I'm part of a grand romantic story, a true ballerina's escape from the mundane!
Of course, before setting off I indulged in a rather extravagant breakfast. It's not a real adventure if you haven't enjoyed a proper breakfast with bubbles, is it? I even got a little flamboyant with a sprig of lilac nestled in my croissant! Just a little dash of ballerina sparkle for the journey.
The journey was a bit of a blur! I was too excited to do anything but admire the scenery: Fields of emerald, the silver thread of the Thames, villages tucked away like hidden gems, everything painted with the glorious hues of the dawn.
The heart of London, however, was truly buzzing with excitement. A kaleidoscope of faces, sights, and sounds - It was a sensory feast! But as always, my favourite part is wandering around these ancient cobbled streets, absorbing the history that seeps from every brick and stone. It truly feels as if I’ve stepped into a Jane Austen novel.
Speaking of which, my wanderings took me through St. James’s Park. A beautiful oasis of serenity, where a gentle breeze whispered through the trees, the smell of summer flowers filling the air, and the royal swan guarding the peaceful lake with a watchful eye. It’s a true ballet dancer's sanctuary. I found myself swaying and twirling with pure joy in this beautiful space.
And what did a girl like me do in London without stopping by Fortnum & Mason? Of course! One must indulge in the finest afternoon tea - dainty finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, all enjoyed alongside a perfectly brewed Earl Grey. What's better than sipping a beautiful pot of tea in this exquisite shop, enjoying a delicate morsel? Absolutely nothing!
Oh! and before I forget – the ballet! The theatre itself was magnificent. I gasped at the opulent design, and even had my picture taken with a handsome gentleman in a tuxedo by the entrance, just a tad fancier than the normal ones I encounter in Derbyshire. As for Giselle, it was truly enchanting. The delicate choreography, the haunting story, the passionate dance… A whirlwind of emotions that left me feeling utterly mesmerized.
And that, my dear readers, brings us to the end of my little adventure in the heart of London. I truly believe every woman should try a ballet performance at least once in her life! The grace, the beauty, the passion... it's intoxicating! And don’t forget, my dear friends: I encourage every one of you to join my mission - Let's paint the world pink with a little tutu magic! I think that might be my next London adventure!
Until next time,
Your very own Tutu Princess,
Emma
P.S. Have I mentioned I adore travelling by train? If only the station cafes were all as delightful as Fortnum & Mason… then the journeys would be even better! Imagine enjoying a cuppa with a scone before taking a train across a rainbow-hued meadow…. now that would be a story for another day!
