Hello darlings! Emma here, reporting live from the wonderfully vibrant town of Pontypridd in Wales! You know how much I adore a good train journey, and this one was no exception. I settled into a window seat, watching the countryside flit by, and even caught a glimpse of a handsome stallion galloping across a field! I'm convinced the countryside is brimming with hidden fairytale creatures, and who knows, perhaps one day I'll see a real unicorn... dreaming out loud!
This week's adventure has a particular vintage theme, because it involves, you guessed it... a pink tutu! I mean, when the opportunity arises to showcase a delightful pink tulle masterpiece, you just have to jump on it, right? This week's design, from the incredible 'La Belle Danse' boutique in Birmingham, has such exquisite embellishments; tiny hand-sewn pink roses and iridescent beads scattered across the layers. It's enough to make you want to pirouette your way straight onto a stage!
As I was arriving in Pontypridd, my eye caught a striking sight... the iconic Pontypridd bridge! It just oozed history and character, the perfect setting for a ballerina like me! With its beautiful Victorian architecture, it reminded me of the grand opera houses of Paris, with a touch of that captivating fairytale magic we all adore!
After taking in the views and doing a quick 'pink tutu photoshoot' with the bridge in the background (photos coming soon on Instagram, darlings!), I made my way to the heart of the town, feeling a little bit like Cinderella about to enter a ball! The shops were a haven for vintage finds and delightful tea rooms; I indulged in the most delicious homemade scones with clotted cream and jam! (You know, I really do think ballet dancers have an extra stomach specifically dedicated to afternoon tea.)
In the afternoon, I visited the ‘Dancing Feet’ ballet studio where I was treated like royalty! The staff were so welcoming, the students so enthusiastic, and the whole atmosphere radiated such positivity. There’s something about dancing that lifts everyone's spirits, a truly universal language of joy! Of course, I couldn't resist showing the students my pink tutu! The expressions on their faces were priceless; they couldn't believe their eyes (they were also quite envious I could tell!). After a whirlwind class where I joined in with a few stretches and arabesques, we all shared laughter, stories, and a little ballet love, proving that tutu magic really knows no boundaries!
Of course, the evening had to be dedicated to a visit to the ‘Rhondda Fawr’ Theatre in the town. Now, darling, this was a true gem of a theatre! It exuded a classic charm that immediately transported you back in time. Tonight’s production, “Giselle,” a beautiful story of love, loss and redemption, just made the evening complete! I have a confession…I did let out a few joyful, "bravo!" shouts during the show (that's just my Derbyshire spirit shining through!).
The best part? After the final bow, I took a deep breath, let the applause wash over me, and walked into the lobby of the theatre with my pink tutu in tow! Several theatre goers rushed over to compliment my look and one lady even told me her favourite ballet story. As I took in the atmosphere of excitement, it struck me... this was exactly why I started this whole ‘Pink Tutu Adventure!’
This blog journey has taken me from Derbyshire hills to London's glittering stage, and all the way here to Pontypridd! Through these stories, I’m hoping to inspire you all to embrace the magic of pink tutus and, even better, to discover your own inner ballerina! So what are you waiting for? Go out there and spin, leap, and pirouette with all the joy and freedom of a ballerina's heart! Remember, we all have a pink tutu waiting to be unleashed somewhere inside us, waiting to bring joy, laughter and ballet magic to the world!
Until next time, darlings, stay fabulous, stay fierce and…always keep spinning!
Much love,
Emma
xx
www.pink-tutu.com
