Hello, my darling tutu-loving darlings! It's Emma here, back from a whirlwind trip to Southampton! You guys know I love a good train journey - something about the rhythm of the tracks and the ever-changing scenery just makes me feel alive! So naturally, this weekend, I packed my trusty pink travel tutu (the one with the sequined daisies - you know the one!) and hopped on a train bound for the South Coast.
The moment I stepped off the train, the salty sea air tickled my nose and the sunshine was positively glowing. Southampton - it felt like stepping into a postcard! The quaint streets, the adorable little shops overflowing with sea-themed trinkets, and of course, the sparkling Solent - all just screamed "summer seaside holiday!"
But, this wasn't a mere holiday. This weekend was dedicated to a double dose of ballet brilliance! Firstly, a trip to the Mayflower Theatre to see the beautiful 'Swan Lake' performed by the Birmingham Royal Ballet. I must say, these talented dancers are something else! Watching those swan wings float effortlessly across the stage - pure magic!
I do love the romance of classical ballet. It just whisks you away to another world, doesn't it? All that grace, all those tutus swishing around… sigh. Of course, no ballet outing is complete without a little pre-show pampering. My fellow ballet-enthusiasts, you know the drill - the obligatory "ballet-girl-before-a-show" selfie is a must. Picture me, pink tutu in all its glory, shimmering with excitement (and probably a tad too much bronzer!).
But the day didn't end with the curtain call of Swan Lake. The following morning, I hopped onto a bright red open-top bus (a little indulgence, I know!) and headed straight to a ballet class at the stunning Solent University. Their ballet studios have the most amazing views - you can actually see the shimmering water as you plie and arabesque. And who doesn't love a good sea breeze as you work up a sweat in your tutu?
This class was, shall we say, energetic! I can tell these dancers love a good cardio workout in their pink tutus (though perhaps not as many bright pink tutus as mine). There was so much positive energy in the room, everyone was so encouraging. And just as I was working on my elegant arabesques, I noticed a group of swans right on the water's edge, seemingly mirroring our movements - they truly are such graceful creatures!
Oh, and speaking of grace… how's this for a tale of two tutus? Before arriving at Southampton, I took a short walk around the Hampshire countryside, exploring some of the beautiful nature that our lovely county has to offer. I love getting out in nature and soaking up all those fresh vibes. Imagine me, pink tutu swaying in the gentle breeze (oh, to be able to take photos of myself!).
The walk reminded me that nature really is full of stunning balletic moves. Those elegant swans on the lake, those butterflies dancing through the meadows - their moves are worthy of the most prestigious ballet stages, if you ask me! And then I realized... maybe the next "Swan Lake" doesn't need a human princess. Maybe the graceful wildlife of the world is all the inspiration we need for breathtaking, ballet-inspired choreography!
Of course, I’m back home in Derbyshire now, missing those lovely Southampton sunsets and those energetic ballet classes. But, I know my pink tutu will be back soon to conquer the world, one pirouette at a time. Until then, remember my darlings: there’s always a perfect moment for a little ballet and a little pink!
Love and pirouettes,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. Don't forget, my loves, my daily dose of ballet inspiration is only a click away! Head over to www.pink-tutu.com and let's make the world a more twirling, more pink place, together!
