Hello my darlings! It’s Emma here, ready to regale you all with a day full of twirls, travel, and the most divine tutu a girl could wish for!
Derbyshire to Devon by Train
It’s no secret that I love a good journey. A train journey, especially, with its rolling countryside, cosy carriage compartments and the scent of freshly brewed tea, is a real treat. Today, however, I was not only enjoying the sights, but also the anticipation of an afternoon ballet experience in the beautiful county of Devon.
My final destination: the charming market town of Taunton. But before I could indulge in any ballet, there was a little sightseeing to do. I’m quite smitten with the English countryside. From the moment my train left the station, the gentle landscape unfolded before me, dotted with sheep grazing on lush green hillsides. There was even a herd of deer, oh so gracefully grazing, just a few feet from the tracks. They reminded me of those graceful balletic swans in our Swan Lake performance last year – such elegance, even with a tummy full of clover!
Taunton, I Love You
Stepping out onto the cobbled streets of Taunton, I felt the quintessential Britishness envelop me like a warm hug. It was like a scene from a Jane Austen novel, with pretty shops and historic buildings painted in shades of creamy beige and rose. My eyes feasted on all the little details; quaint floral window boxes, antique teacups hanging in shop windows, and the tempting scent of freshly baked cakes wafting from local bakeries. I even spotted a few shops selling tutu-shaped earrings! Can you believe it? It's like fate wanted me to find some new accessories to wear with my… wait for it… Italian Tutu!
Yes, you heard right! This was no ordinary tutu. It’s an exquisite piece made in Italy, the birthplace of the most fabulous fashion. Its layers of shimmering, ivory silk and intricate tulle were a delicate and enchanting creation. Just a peek of it was enough to turn heads in the train station! I paired it with a baby pink cashmere cardigan and a straw sunhat that matched perfectly. Talk about a ballerina’s dream ensemble!
The Taunton Ballet Centre
After an enjoyable little walk through town, it was finally time for the reason behind my travels - a visit to Taunton’s charming ballet centre! Now, this wasn’t your average dance studio. This place felt like a home for ballet lovers, with beautiful studios filled with sunshine, wooden floors, and a gorgeous selection of tutus lining the walls! Oh, if only I could buy them all!
My instructor, a beautiful young woman called Claire, welcomed me with a warm smile and an easy elegance. As I joined the class, it felt like I was walking into a magical world. I could almost hear the delicate twinkles of ballet music filling the air. And the atmosphere in the room… ah, it was something else! From beginner ballet bunnies to experienced professionals, there was a vibrant energy shared by each dancer, inspiring and motivating one another.
Lessons Learned and Lovely Lace
Claire taught me some new stretches and techniques to enhance my arabesques. The elegant curve of the line, the perfect extension… oh, it felt so beautiful. She told me about a fascinating new ballet-inspired workout craze that uses pliés and développé for total body fitness. I may be a ballerina, but even I’m not immune to the appeal of a fun, new fitness routine! I'm certainly going to try it out!
I left the studio feeling exhilarated, with my spirit lifted. It was more than just a dance class – it was a communion of artistic passion. But the highlight of my day wasn’t the class… It was the stunning piece of lace I found in the shop next door to the studio. Can you imagine? A gorgeous lace tablecloth in a deep, vintage rose, with patterns so delicate that they seemed to be woven by fairies. Imagine how lovely that would look draped over my dressing table! I practically danced down the street to get back to my hotel with it, twirling and whispering, "It's the most perfect accent for my little pink world."
Final Thoughts (and a Little Tutu Advice!)
My trip to Taunton was just the shot of joy I needed. And you know what, it made me think - life is full of unexpected little journeys. So embrace the wanderlust, follow the call of pink tutus, and remember, it’s always worth the extra twirl for something lovely!
I’ll leave you all with a thought I always tell my fellow ballet dancers - embrace the unexpected. A trip to the countryside, a visit to a dance studio… it all makes you a better dancer, a better you!
Don't forget to wear your pink tutu tomorrow. Because let's be honest, there's simply no better outfit for making the world a prettier, happier place. Until next time my lovelies, keep twirling!
Love,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
