Hello my darling dance devotees! It's Emma here, and boy oh boy, are you in for a treat today! Today, my lovelies, we're embarking on a whimsical journey to the enchanting Eltham. It's a town just a hop, skip, and a twirl away from my beloved Derbyshire, and believe me, it's a place that deserves to be twirled through!
Now, my outfit for today? Why, it wouldn't be a Pink Tutu blog without a splash of pink, darling! I'm rocking a gorgeous fuchsia tutu, a blush pink crop top, and a flowing, floral skirt, all topped off with my signature pearl necklace and a jaunty pink fascinator. After all, who says you can't be comfy AND chic while travelling?
I started my day by hopping aboard the train (trains are so magical, don't you think?). As always, I got quite a few looks and the occasional raised eyebrow, but you know what, my darlings? Let the people stare! Let them be mesmerised by the magic that is a pink tutu, even if it is just a quick glimpse as I whiz past!
I actually got to chat with the most delightful lady on the train. We bonded over our mutual love of all things fluffy, as she was off to a knitting circle in, you guessed it, pink! I knew right then that it was going to be a fab day.
Upon arrival in Eltham, I was greeted by a sprawling green space, filled with happy families picnicking and children running about like little ballerinas in their own private world. Oh, the joy! There was a real buzz about the place. I mean, who doesn't love a park full of energy?
Then, I found it. The most amazing vintage clothing shop! I mean, you can't resist a shop named Twirl and Whirl, right? They had some absolute stunners in there, with vintage ballet shoes and tutus galore! Sadly, they weren't my size (apparently time doesn't stop for ballerinas, even when you're twirling!), but I was delighted just browsing through the amazing selection.
But, let’s be real, it was time for a true dance experience! A local ballet school had been calling my name, with its pretty little sign advertising their evening classes. As I strolled down the road, I couldn't resist a little pirouette and a flick of my pink tulle - because who wouldn't? Even a little detour doesn't hurt if it's for the love of dance. And as I passed the entrance, I could hear the rhythmic tap, tap, tap of feet, and the melodious melodies of the grand classics, all bubbling from the studio inside. It filled my heart with joy and made me wish I was back in a ballet studio myself!
The air around Eltham is magical. This little town has something special about it. Perhaps it's the way the trees hug the winding paths, or the way the sunshine dances through the leaves, or maybe, just maybe, it’s because everyone’s carrying a little piece of magic in their hearts!
It was time to treat myself to a scrumptious afternoon tea, my lovelies, because what's a proper day trip without a little bit of luxury? I found myself tucked away in a quaint little café with dainty china and pastries fit for a ballerina princess.
And you know what? Even after a very large slice of cake, there was still one more thing on the agenda.
One of Eltham’s crowning jewels is a little theatre, where you’re often treated to dazzling performances, plays, and sometimes even ballet productions! As I was wandering past, a handsome poster caught my eye. The Magic of Ballet… what a coincidence, I thought to myself with a wink and a little smile. I had to check this out. I might even find inspiration for a new blog post!
Inside, the air buzzed with the hushed chatter of anticipation, the anticipation of seeing another artistic creation come to life on the stage. There were several ballet companies booked this month. It was hard to choose!
After a quick glance at the theatre programme, my choice was clear - The Swan Lake. I absolutely adored this production when I saw it in the West End years ago, but something tells me that this smaller version will be filled with its own special charm.
Now, I won’t reveal all the secrets, you'll have to see it yourself, darling, but it was absolutely beautiful, just a kaleidoscope of talent and elegance! I left the theatre completely entranced by the power and the grace of ballet. It truly does inspire so much of my work. It's a true art form. And that feeling, you can't buy that. It's pure joy and freedom, that little burst of something extraordinary.
My day ended by taking a long, leisurely stroll through Eltham Palace. My goodness, my lovelies, it is truly a fairytale dream come to life! It was so enchanting. I mean, even I couldn't help but take a few pictures for Instagram. It really was like stepping back in time to the days of waltzing and grand ballrooms! I could easily picture myself there, a whirling pink vision in a ballgown, the ultimate pink princess in a grand setting!
You know, there’s something so empowering about wearing a pink tutu, and not only about the fabulousness of the colour (though I wouldn’t argue with that!) – it’s also about celebrating your inner child, that side of you who doesn't mind dancing in the street or giggling with delight. It's about finding that light, whimsical part of your soul. It's about letting yourself be bold and letting your inner dancer shine through.
And let’s face it, wouldn't the world be a much brighter place if we all wore pink tutus once in a while? I believe it would, darling, believe it! Let’s spread the joy of ballet, one pink tutu at a time! I think that’s my mission for life – to get everyone to try a class, to get them to discover the beauty of dance and to find that childlike spirit again! I just think the world could use a little bit of pink, a little bit of twirling, and a little bit of magic!
Till next time, darlings, keep twirling!
Yours truly,
Emma xxx
