Hello my gorgeous Tutu-loving darlings!
It's Emma here, reporting live from the bustling town of Darlaston! Yes, you read that right, this little Derbyshire girl has traded the rolling hills and whispering wind for industrial charm and a dash of Black Country grit. Don't worry, though, I still managed to squeeze my tutu-tastic style into this adventurous little trip.
This blog post is going to be a bit different, my loves. Instead of the usual ballet classes and glitzy gala performances, today I'm venturing off the beaten track and exploring a little slice of the Midlands, all while decked out in my trusty yellow tutu! Don't you just love a pop of colour?
As a seasoned tutu-wearer, I know you all get the "is it too much?" "does it fit in?" and "how can I pull it off?" worries. My answer? There is NO wrong way to wear a tutu! You, my darling, rock it with confidence.
And rock it I did! Imagine, if you will, the sight of a yellow tutu swirling amidst the market stalls and cobblestone streets of Darlaston. I felt like a vibrant, bright, sunshine ray shining through the slightly overcast day, a little touch of magic in an industrial landscape.
I’d started the day with my usual coffee and croissant, of course, because even a tutu-clad adventure needs fuel. I think the cafe owner must have found me amusing; I mean, who else rocks a bright yellow tutu over breakfast?
The train ride to Darlaston was surprisingly pleasant. Not as elegant as my usual carriage trips with horses, mind you, but efficient and quick. I actually enjoy the rumble and clatter of a good train journey. It lets you see the world from a different perspective, even when it's just the view of passing factories and council estates! My travel companion today? A fabulously pink book called "The Ballet for Beginners."
Reaching Darlaston, I had the good fortune to stumble upon the town's wonderful Farmer's Market. You can’t imagine the joy I felt when I saw all the delicious and vibrant produce laid out for sale: plump berries, colorful vegetables, local cheeses. It was all so…picturesque! And of course, I managed to add a little something extra to my day – a charming little bunny rabbit, all white and fluffy, hopping about happily. Now who doesn't love bunnies?!
In the heart of the town square, the town band was playing a lovely, bouncy tune. I immediately had to join in, you know, tap my toes and twirl a little. It was absolutely delightful! And they even applauded me. Who needs a royal ball, I thought, when you have this? My inner ballerina was absolutely in heaven!
Next on the itinerary, was a quick visit to a charming vintage shop. You wouldn't believe the treasure I found - a gorgeous, blush-pink feather boa that would look amazing with a classic white tutu! Talk about an accidental wardrobe upgrade!
The afternoon was a blast too! I saw the Darlaston Town Hall, which had this beautiful mosaic work, very ornate and whimsical. It really set me in a creative mood! But the most unexpectedly wonderful discovery? The local bakery had these fabulous pink raspberry cupcakes. I absolutely had to have one for tea!
Darlaston wasn’t what I expected - it felt earthy, a little rough around the edges, yet vibrant with its own distinct character. As the sun set, casting the town in a beautiful golden glow, I couldn't help but reflect on how important it is to step outside your comfort zone and experience the unexpected.
My evening concluded with a relaxing walk through the Darlaston Cemetery. Don't judge me! It's a bit morbid, but it's so quiet and peaceful there. And honestly, the graveyard is where I had my greatest "Tutu moment" of the day. There's a large sculpture of a winged angel that had this wonderful circular base – a perfect place to spin, twirl and embrace my inner ballet goddess. You bet I grabbed a video to share on Pink Tutu – I know you girls will love it!
Of course, as darkness fell, it was time for this Tutu-loving adventurer to head back. The train journey back was even quieter than the journey out, everyone probably tucked up in their beds with warm dreams of ballet shoes and fairy tales. I can't say the train was glamorous, but you can always make your own adventure a bit glamorous, with the right tutu and a positive attitude.
So, that's Darlaston! It was a charming, unexpected detour and I truly fell in love with the town’s rough-hewn, authentic charm. It just goes to show you don't need to go far to have an amazing, fun and fulfilling adventure. You can even wear a pink tutu!
Now go and rock those tutus, girls! Spread the pink love and let your inner ballerina shine wherever you are. You're all beautiful! See you tomorrow for a blog post about my fabulous time at the Birmingham Royal Ballet…stay tuned!
Until then,
Emma xx
