Hello darlings! It’s your favourite tutu-wearing traveller, Emma, writing to you live from the bustling city of Manchester! Today’s post is a little bit special – a pink little something to brighten your day and hopefully inspire you to wear your own tutu, be it pink or otherwise!
My journey up north started in my usual way – on the train! I can’t resist the charm of those rattling carriages, especially when I can look out the window at the countryside flitting past. The journey was so scenic, filled with rolling green hills, sheep munching lazily in fields, and charming little villages, that it felt like stepping into a watercolour painting. But I must confess, my excitement about reaching Manchester and a very special ballet show kept me from napping!
Manchester's Ballet Magic:
The reason I’d travelled so far (a good two hours by train – my trusty carriage!) was the chance to catch a performance of The Sleeping Beauty by the Northern Ballet. Oh my goodness, darlings, I’m so in love with that ballet! The sheer scale of it is just awe-inspiring, from the sets and costumes to the captivating choreography. It really makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a fairytale kingdom. And what can I say about the sheer power and grace of the dancers? My heart skipped a beat watching the prince effortlessly soar across the stage and the beautiful Aurora spin her way through the performance!
It wasn’t all about the theatre though! A few hours before the performance, I treated myself to a little pampering. My secret weapon? The incredible Northern Quarter, Manchester’s own haven of trendy boutiques, cute cafes, and independent shops. It felt like the perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon – indulging in a delicious cup of chai tea, browsing the delightful wares of independent shops and even catching sight of a rather magnificent squirrel, busy scuttling around in one of the parks. Squirrels have a knack for finding the best spots to observe the human world – true experts on street ballet, I’d say!
But, darling, no matter what city or village I find myself in, the highlight of every day is ballet class! Luckily for me, the Lowry, Manchester’s lovely arts centre, is renowned for its impressive programme of ballet classes. With a whole mix of levels, from beginners to more advanced, I felt right at home amidst the enthusiastic dancers, feeling their passion and energy filling the room. You really can’t underestimate the joy of a good ballet class, whether you’re a seasoned dancer like me or someone just wanting to dip their toes (pun intended!) into the world of graceful movement.
Speaking of ballet, remember those Pink Tutu T-shirts I’ve been teasing about? Well, they’re finally here! We've gone and made some incredible limited edition tees that embody my passion for pink and ballet! Check them out on the blog, they’re going fast, darlings! I can’t wait to see all of you sporting them - think of the perfect street ballet ensemble!
Taking Inspiration from the North:
Leaving Manchester, I had a renewed sense of inspiration and the strong feeling that, sometimes, you have to leave your comfort zone to discover what you love most. Just like a little bird flying out of its nest to explore new heights, I’m forever a wanderer, my tutu dancing through life! The people, the art, the city's vibrant energy – all this, my lovelies, has shown me just how exciting life can be when you’re open to new experiences. It’s an experience I'll be carrying with me, in my heart, as I continue on my ballet journey – a journey that encourages everyone to wear a pink tutu and step into their inner ballerina!
Tutu Tip:
Looking for an afternoon of whimsical charm? Visit the Manchester Museum! It's a haven of unique exhibits, from dinosaur skeletons to an incredible Egyptian collection. And the best part? The museum's courtyard is home to a gorgeous garden with peacocks strolling around! You know how much I love my feathered friends.
That’s all for today, my darlings! Stay tuned for more tutu travels as I take you on new adventures – the world is my stage, after all. Don’t forget to subscribe to Pink Tutu and follow me on my journey!
With love and twirls, Emma
P.S. Have you joined the #PinkTutu movement yet? Snap yourself in your favourite tutu and share your pink ballerina moment with the world. You might just see your picture on the blog!
