Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-wearing ballet enthusiast, Emma, reporting live from… well, not quite the Bolshoi Theatre, but a rather charming little town called Strood in Kent. Yep, that’s right! Your girl has traded in her trusty steed (a.k.a. my faithful Bentley – she's in the garage for a service) for a good old fashioned train journey. And let me tell you, the train ride was positively delightful! Not just because of the scenic countryside, but also because I bumped into the most fabulously-dressed group of ladies all heading for a vintage tea party at a stately home. Naturally, I couldn't resist joining them – who can say no to tea and scones, right? They even let me borrow a pretty hat and shawl – oh, and a vintage bag full of goodies like lip gloss and face powder. Fancy!
Anyway, enough about my fashionable encounters. Today's all about ballet! Now, you all know how much I adore ballet, from the traditional elegance of the Royal Opera House to the raw energy of street ballet. This trip to Strood has been all about the latter. There’s this wonderful new community centre here in Strood, tucked away near the river, that has started a ‘Ballet for Beginners’ class. Naturally, I couldn't resist dropping in for a quick taster session. I mean, how could I not! It was simply divine!
The class was packed with kids of all ages, from little ones just starting to tiptoe around the room to some teens with real serious ballet aspirations. It’s truly heartwarming to see how enthusiastic they all were. There’s a real sense of passion and joy in this place. The instructor, a wonderfully warm woman named Mrs. Plumtree (talk about a delightful name!), has the most contagious smile and an incredibly supportive nature. She guided the class with gentle encouragement and such a contagious love for the art form, I practically levitated across the dance floor!
What’s really special about this class, and probably the reason I enjoyed it so much, is that Mrs. Plumtree didn’t follow a rigid ballet routine. Oh no! It was all about experimenting and having fun. One minute we were swirling and pirouetting like swans on a lake, and the next we were channeling our inner pop stars, grooving to our favourite tunes, all the while incorporating ballet movements into the fun. Now, if that doesn’t sound like the best way to learn the fundamentals of ballet, I don’t know what does! I’m already looking forward to joining in for their next class, you can be sure of that!
Speaking of the best way to learn ballet, have you seen the latest dance craze on Tik Tok? There’s this fantastic ballerina called Luna (her handle is @LunaOnTheMove, check her out!), and her video tutorials are chefs kiss. They're all about making ballet fun and accessible, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes in. Honestly, it's incredibly inspiring! The other day, I was showing off a few moves to my niece (you remember little Lily, my adorable cousin who I teach how to pirouette), and her first reaction was, "Auntie Emma, you look just like Luna!". Can you imagine? A higher compliment I haven’t heard!
Now, let’s talk about outfits, because let’s be honest, they’re the most fabulous part of any ballet adventure. Since I’m a firm believer in making a statement (and that statement involves wearing pink, obviously!), my chosen outfit for Strood was a glorious vintage pink tutu from the 1960s, complete with a matching feather boa. Talk about adding some drama to my dance moves! For a bit of extra colour, I popped on a pair of sparkly lime green ballet flats (think Mary Poppins but with a bit more pink, if you get me!), and let me tell you, I felt absolutely fabulous twirling my way through the ballet class! I’ll add a few pics of my outfit in the post, but be warned – they may inspire a bout of pink-tutu-buying-fever! I'm also on the lookout for a sparkly vintage-looking train set for my Bentley to match, that’s my next mission.
Before I wrap up, I have to share a little anecdote about Strood’s wildlife. You see, I was strolling through the local park after class, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the serenity of nature, when I came across the most adorable little squirrel! He was perched on a branch, with his tail swishing back and forth as he munched on a nut. It was a very British, quintessentially charming moment, I have to admit. I mean, wouldn't it be a brilliant story to tell? Me, a ballerina in pink tutu, trying to win over this adorable squirrel? And then I got this funny idea - to set up a ‘ballet for squirrels’ class. I think the idea would go viral!
Well, darlings, this has been an absolutely magical day. From the vibrant colours of my outfit, the playful energy of the ballet class, the vintage charm of my tea party encounters to the unexpected joy of meeting a very adorable squirrel, I couldn’t have asked for a more fun-filled day. Now, if you'll excuse me, I think a hot bubble bath awaits. Perhaps with some music to put me in a dreamy ballerina mood!
Don’t forget to check back tomorrow for my next adventure!
Until then, keep dancing, keep twirling, and remember, everyone can wear a pink tutu, everyone can enjoy ballet!
Much love,
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
