Post number: 3920
Hello my lovely pink tutu wearers! It's Emma here, reporting live from sunny (well, mostly) Basingstoke! I know, I know, it's not the most glamorous of destinations, but trust me, it's been an absolute tutu-tastic adventure!
Now, I know you're all wondering how I got here - train, of course! I can't resist the romance of a train journey - the gentle sway of the carriage, the rhythmic click-clack of the tracks, the chance to indulge in a cuppa and a good book (and maybe even squeeze in a spot of ballet practice in my seat!).
But before I tell you all about Basingstoke, let's rewind a little. My Derbyshire roots are calling me - you know I can never stay away too long! This weekend I found myself back at the stately home of Chatsworth House, home of the glorious Cavendish family, for their fabulous annual Flower Show. You could practically smell the springtime in the air! They had amazing floral displays, stunning sculptures, and of course, the most spectacular selection of pink blooms. Honestly, my heart did a little pirouette at the sheer beauty of it all! It’s a little known fact that I am totally partial to all things florally; who knew my passion for tutus and flowers could be so closely intertwined? I think it’s all the lovely, bright colours that get me - oh, to be living amongst such vibrant beauty.
However, no matter how delightful Derbyshire can be, a true ballerina’s work is never done. So after a truly wonderful couple of days at home, I was off again! Back to the station I went, this time, with Basingstoke in my sights. Why Basingstoke? Well, it just so happens to be home to one of the most exciting and innovative dance companies around - the Basingstoke Ballet! These incredible dancers, they're on the edge of ballet's boundaries, exploring new styles and pushing the envelope on what's possible in the world of contemporary dance.
Of course, a true tutu-wearing ballet enthusiast can’t simply be a spectator. What better way to fully immerse myself in this incredible experience than by actually having a go myself? Now, I know what you're thinking, Emma in a dance class? The world may never be ready for the sight! But don’t you worry, I’ve been working with the wonderful Sarah (she’s a bit of a star herself – did you know she used to dance professionally with the Royal Ballet? Seriously) - anyway, Sarah has given me some extra helpful guidance, she’s the only person who can coax me out of my shell - and actually get my stiff old body to do those moves! We are trying, oh, we are trying, to find my graceful side - after all, we’ve got a big show coming up, but right now, we’re working on my plie! I might need to invest in some extra strengthening classes for my hamstrings and inner thigh... if they are still intact that is.
And what could be a more fitting way to celebrate my (tentatively successful) dance journey than with a delicious afternoon tea? There's something so luxurious and elegant about a steaming cuppa, delicate sandwiches, and those divine cakes! It felt so quintessentially English. But, for once, I took my pinky finger out of the teacup. (Let’s face it, even I need a bit of practical when it comes to my tea! I don't want to accidentally create an ink-splattered outfit - I know we’re looking at the pinkest tutu in the whole wide world here! And trust me, the last thing anyone needs is pink dye permanently decorating a tutu! Brrrp No, don't ask... the day has had its minor mishaps!) But honestly, afternoon tea is one of those joys I could never get enough of. It was just the right touch to make this trip so memorable.
Speaking of memorable, Basingstoke had a real wild card up its sleeve, in the shape of the local zoo. Yes, really! Did you know that this town has its own wildlife haven, where you can see all sorts of fascinating creatures? There was something incredibly magical about seeing the orangutans swinging in their enclosures, a majestic tiger strutting around, and the giraffes stretching their necks high to grab delicious leaves. The place even had an enclosure for otters, which always melts my heart with their cute and playful personalities - how adorable are these fluffy furry little things! You might wonder if these wild animals know about pink tutus? Well, my Tutu Blog is getting big - how would they? We have a big world to explore.
This trip to Basingstoke, has definitely been one for the books. The combination of a visit to the heart of our artistic cultural heritage, and exploring the extraordinary wild, truly made my week. There's always more to discover about the world around us and always a new reason to put on that bright, beautiful, pink tutu! So until next time, my lovely tutu lovers, keep spreading the ballet magic! I'll see you on www.pink-tutu.com for the next exciting update, that is, if I can keep my legs moving and this blog getting updated in-between classes.
Keep it real (and pink)!
Emma xx
